StringBike With StringDrive (Hint: It Uses Something Other Than A Chain)

3
170
StringBike With StringDrive (Images courtesy StringDrive)

StringBike With StringDrive (Images courtesy StringDrive)
By Andrew Liszewski

According to a Hungarian-based company called StringDrive, the current design of bicycles, with the drive chain and gears all located on one side, results in an asymmetric riding experience that’s not as inefficient or smooth as it could be. Of course we don’t really notice it because we’ve never driven something better, so not surprisingly that’s exactly what StringDrive claims they have created.

Their StringBike uses two identical but opposing drive units on either side of the bike which feature swinging arms moving forward and back as the pedals are turned. This back and forth motion pulls a set of steel ropes on either side which in turn cause a drum and the rear wheel to rotate. Since the mechanisms on both sides are moving in symmetry as you pedal, the rear wheel is constantly being driven, providing a smoother, and more efficient, ride. If you’re having trouble picturing it take a few moments and watch this mesmerizing video of the StringDrive in action.

The company claims that it only takes a few minutes for a rider to get used to the StringBike, particularly when it comes to shifting gears, but I have to say it does sound like a definite improvement over a chain drive system. I just have reservations about how complicated the system looks, and how easy it would be to repair should something happen while you’re out for a ride.

[ StringBike With StringDrive ] VIA [ Doobybrain ]

3 COMMENTS

  1. It does use a string on both sides of the bike that goes into action for every pedal you make thus creating a continuous action for each side. It will really provide an easy biking experience but how durable will that string be?

  2. You could just get clipless pedals for the up-stroke part of of each revolution if you're concerned with speed. And if you blame the gears being on one side of the bike for not having good enough balance to ride it, don't quit your day job to join the Tour. Even when you're walking, you're unbalanced. What are you going to do now, find a wheel-chair?

  3. This has to have internal hub gearing in the rear hub. Which means a lot of stress. Also where is the rear break? Hub drum break? With the movement transformation mechanism if all of that is in the rear hub, that is the single most complex mechanical device ever made for a bicycle. The reliability and serviceability of such a clockwork piece of machinery is questionable.

    Also wear and tear and and losses in friction on the string mechanism and those rocker arm mechanisms is more concerning.

    And lastly, what about the asymmetric breaking experience of the front disc break /sarcasm.

LEAVE A REPLY