If you have ever ridden a bicycle down Charlotte or Raleigh streets, you know just how harrowing an experience it can be, especially at peak travel times. As alternate forms of transportation become popular among the commuting crowd, inventors are stepping up to the plate.
Forget helmets, elbow and knee pads. Never mind a horn reminiscent of Pee Wee’s Big Adventure. Instead, consider purchasing the Babel Bike invented by Crispin Sinclair of the United Kingdom. Touted as a cocoon of safety, the bike may make your days of riding in a car obsolete.
An Indiegogo project, the new bike has two wheels, just like any other. The tall seat on the bike makes it look like a recumbent. The roll cage and seat belts make it feel like a race car or some type of amusement ride. Steel foot protectors give your feet a safe place to hide. But why all of the new-fangled gizmos?
If you get struck by a vehicle while riding the Babel Bike, you will be pushed, not crushed. Sounds good so far.
Other safety features on the bike include turn signals, brake lights, automatic front and rear lights, rear-view mirrors, a horn, and hazard lights. Consider all of these and the bike in your mind quickly becomes more car than two-wheeler. So what’s the catch?
The bike hasn’t hit the market yet. The project is still in its development phase and, if funding comes through, the first bikes are expected to hit the market in spring of 2016. When it is released, you will be shelling out just under $3,000 for the non-motorized version and close to $4,500 for the electric version.
Any new bike that promotes safety within its design is a great option in our book. Bicycle versus car accidents are becoming far too common across the country as people look to get to work in ways that are more environmentally friendly. If you are ready to pedal your way to work or school, you will need to purchase a helmet and other protective gear for now. While you’re at the bike shop, be sure to invest in a few mirrors and lights, too. Safety, not fashion, should be your priority.
If you have been hurt in a bicycle accident, our compassionate attorneys are here for you. Contact us as soon as you are able so that we can review the facts of your case. We want to help you get the compensation you deserve. Call now.