We Like Yike!

With public transportation costs going up and reliability going down New Yorkers are left wanting an alternative. But vehicles are costly and there is still that tiny issue of parking. I mean, if you could afford to pay a second rent you wouldn’t be living in 600 square feet to begin with right?

With the addition of improved bike lanes around the city cycling has become much safer here in town. Perhaps you’ve considered riding but fear having to hang a bike rack over your kitchen table or the inevitable theft from outside your door. Everybody knows those locks don’t work.

What if I told you about a motor-powered bike that fits in your coat closet, and under your desk at work? What if I said it was light and portable and no harder to lug around than a messenger bag or that suitcase you call a purse? So say the creators of YikeBike.

YikeBike Created in New Zealand the strategy is this: “use smart technology to solve the problems of our increasingly congested, polluted and stressful cities.” Weighing around 22 pounds and costing between 4 and 5 grand this mini bike goes 12.5 miles per hour and folds up in a minute flat. Sustained by a clean energy lithium battery one charge lasts you 6 miles. Taking just 30 minutes to charge back up again, it’s perfect for the harried New Yorker.

Here’s the best part, when traffic is at its daily standstill you are fully entitled to those freshly paved bike lanes. With rear attached handle bars, a small wheel at the back, and one large in front the design may cause people to look at you like you’re crazy. Crazy like a fox perhaps. You’ll save on taxis, parking, and stress of waiting for the cross-town bus. Who’s crazy now?

Newly available in the states YikeBike is sure to be the hottest item in 2010 for city dwellers. Read more