A groundbreaking bicycle, constructed predominantly from plastic, including its drivetrain and bearings, has been unveiled by the innovative brand Igus at the Sea Otter event. This pioneering bike, comprised of 92% plastics with over 50% sourced from recycled materials, underscores the industry’s increasing focus on sustainability in response to environmental concerns.
Founded in Germany in 1964, Igus, primarily known for polymer manufacturing, has recently ventured into bicycle production. Exhibiting remarkable progress, the showcased bikes at Sea Otter—an orange and a green variant—symbolize the company’s commitment to sustainable materials, with the green bike notably fashioned from recycled fish nets, primarily green in hue.
Catering to the urban bike rental market, Igus emphasizes low maintenance in the design of its bike, featuring a belt drive and plastic self-lubricating bearings, eliminating the need for external lubrication. Christopher Hoeller, Igus’ industry manager, envisions a future where bikes are entirely crafted from recycled materials, describing it as a “fully sustainable cradle-to-cradle product.” While this ambitious goal remains in progress, the current achievement of incorporating over 50% recycled plastics, including fishing nets, sets a new benchmark for eco-friendly bike manufacturing.
Frank Blase, Igus’ CEO, envisions a future where plastic waste transforms into valuable resources for bicycles. With metal relegated only to fasteners, disc brakes, and cables, the Igus:Bike is tailored for the demanding urban rental environment. Its plastic frame offers resistance to corrosion, unlike traditional steel counterparts.
The Igus:Bike, already available in Europe and recently introduced to the US market, retails for approximately $1200, with plans to reduce costs to around $500. Despite its unconventional design, Igus views the initial model as a proof of concept, aiming to inspire the industry towards sustainable practices. Weighing around 17kg, the bike prioritizes durability over performance, ideal for navigating city streets as a rental option.
According to Hoeller, the Igus:Bike represents a paradigm shift in the bike market, offering a sustainable solution for the community’s future needs. Igus remains proactive in its endeavors, with plans for an e-bike release in 2026, featuring pedal assistance through a rear hub motor and integrated battery. Additionally, the brand explores modular frame designs to enable efficient manufacturing of diverse frame sizes.