MinMax Folding Bicycle

Press Kit

Unique Properties

MinMax is an innovative folding bicycle designed for the needs of city commuters. It is easy to carry everywhere thanks to the revolutionary foldable wheels.
MinMax has three configuration (riding, dragging, packing) and, when not in use, can be placed in a backpack and then stored at home, at the office, on public transport.
The basic model can be easily transformed in an electric version with a brushless motor and a battery.

Dimensions & Packaging

Riding Configuration: 1450 mm x 530 mm x 950 mm
Dragging Configuration: 700 mm x 530 mm x 650 mm
Packing Configuration: 580 mm x 360 mm x 400 mm
Weight: 9 - 9.5 Kg

Tags

folding, bicycle, urban, commuters, foldable wheel, e-bike

Production Technology

Bike frame is in 7005 aluminium alloy with TIG welding.
The handlebar is adjustable in height and position, using the hinge on the frame.
The saddle is adjustable in height thanks to the telescopic tube.
The cardanic transmission guarantees durability, reliability and minimal maintenance.
Both 23" wheels are equipped with mechanical disk breaks and foldable airless pneumatics.
A 3 speed shifter is integrated in the rear hub.

Design Challenge

MinMax development was not only a technical challenge: bikers and commuters have new emerging needs, given by the constant evolution of personal habits and ways to live the urban environment. We can't respond to these needs using a standard approach. For these reason, the idea of "reinventing the wheel" was vital to design an extremely compact solution, not only functional but also emotionally significant for the users.

Research

The project started with an analysis and comparison of existing models of folding bike: strength features and weak points were evaluated with the help of the data collected through a questionnaire submitted to different kind of bikers.
The design process was focused on the requirements not fully satisfied by actual bicycles like the need of a lighter and more compact solution.
MinMax is assembled using the best standard components and some technical innovation, developed for this specific application.

Inspiration

In the field of sustainable mobility, the role of bicycle and, in particular, folding bicycle became very interesting for design research. Although the variety of models on the market, the actual solutions are not so foldable (bounded to wheels dimension), too heavy and hard to adjust for an ergonomic use.
MinMax offers an alternative with new technical solutions and a particular focus on human needs and urban contest.

Project Duration

Between 2015 and 2019, the project was developed from concept to structural analysis. In addition, market analysis, questionnaire and business plan has been elaborated in order to find partners for production and commercialization.

Operation Flow

The passage from riding configuration to dragging configuration is regulated by two hinges: one is placed on the front fork and the other is on the main frame, near the saddle tube. When appropriately unlocked, they allow to reduce the bicycle in the wheels space.
The passage from dragging configuration to packing configuration involves the placement of all the remaining elements within the established dimensional limits.

Patents

Pending Patent No. 102019000000649

Image Credits

Monica Oddone, 2019