TECHNICAL INFO

The perfect answer to all those ‘too-long-to-walk’ journeys’

So named, because of its ‘A’ like shape in use, the highly-styled A-bike is ridden just like a regular bicycle and is suitable for users weighing up to 85kg (13 stone 5 lbs).

“The key to its successful introduction”, says chief design engineer, Alex Kalogroulis, “is an entirely fresh approach to the main challenge: how to minimise weight and optimise foldability while retaining full functionality”

Follow the links below to find out more about the design and technology behind the A-bike. If you still have some questions then Q & A will help explain how easy the A-bike is to use and where you can use one.

How does it fold?

• In under 10 seconds
• With a 3 click telescopic mechanism
• To a folded size just 67 x 30 x 16cm

Why is it so light?

The Frame materials

Heat treated aluminum and high strength glass fibre reinforced engineering polymer constitute the majority of the frame.

The Twin chain

The twin chain gearing system specifically uses small drive axles, often one of the heaviest parts of a traditional bicycle. Pedal cadence remains the same as a normal bike.

The Wheels

Each weighs only 350g and this includes the pneumatic tyres which give such a smooth and comfortable ride.

The Brakes

Designed specifically for the A-bike, the semi circular band brakes fit the wheel perfectly providing a lightweight and robust alternative to traditional shoe brakes.

Sinclair Research

A-bike is the result of a five-year research and development programme by Sir Clive Sinclair and his team at Sinclair Research. Sir Clive explains “ …the idea is that if you can have a bicycle that’s seriously lighter and more compact than anything that exists at the moment, it will change the way people see bikes. The principle use for the A-bike is city or town travel over relatively short journeys but also very much for mixed mode journeys where you’re hopping on and off a bus or a train. We envisage A-bike as the ideal solution for people who need to travel first from A to B and then later from C to D.Just as a typical commuter needs to get from home to local station and then from destination to his or her office – and all without any worries about portability, parking or security.”

“The key to its successful introduction”, adds chief designer, Alex Kalogroulis, “is an entirely fresh approach to the main challenge: how to minimise weight and optimise foldability while retaining full functionality. At the heart of the solution are light, highly-reliable telescopic tubes coupled with telescoping brake cables. Furthermore, the A-bike uses a glass reinforced engineering composite, normally found in high end applications, along with custom design brakes to allow complete foldability.”

Sinclair Research Limited was founded by Sir Clive Sinclair in 1979 to design, develop and market major innovations in consumer electronics and, subsequently, personal transport. Among major successes are the Sinclair ZX80, ZX81 and ZX Spectrum (which pioneered the home computer wave, the Spectrum being the first computer to sell a million units globally), the flat screen television and the Zike, an all-electric bicycle. The firm is headquartered in London and continues to be chaired by Sir Clive.

Tech Spec

Weight: 5.6kg
Dual Chain ratios: 14:8 and 35:9
Maximum weight tolerance: 85kgs / 187lbs
Maximum braking force: complies with BS1602 Part 1:1992
Polymer composite: 30% GF PA66
Aluminium: heat treated 6061T6
Tyre size: 15cm/6’’ diameter x 3.2cm/1 ¼”
Tyre Valve type: Shraeder
Pneumatic tyre pressure: 90psi
Max saddle height: 92 cm
Min saddle height: 80cm