Designed by Ron Arad, an Israeli industrial designer, artist, and architect, known for his Well-Tempered chair series that he began in 1986, the very unique Soft Ride bike has reimagined the humble bike wheel and created a totally radical departure from tradition. Using tempered steel, Arad has crafted a wheel with completely different characteristics, offering a fresh perspective on bicycle design.
For a start, you will never get a puncture using the Soft Ride Bike wheel. The wheel’s design incorporates the sprung properties of tempered steel, which have been bolted together in tension, providing a natural yield. The 18 strips of steel are each pinned at different tension points to create one working wheel resembling a flower. This innovative design not only eliminates the risk of punctures but also introduces a new aesthetic and functional dimension to bicycle wheels.
Innovative Design and Functionality
The sprung-steel wheels have been designed to provide the bike with a natural bounce, acting as shock absorbers. This feature is particularly beneficial for riders who frequently navigate uneven terrains, as it can significantly reduce the impact on the rider’s body. However, without riding the Soft Ride Bike, it’s difficult to guess how it would perform on tarmac roads and whether the steel wheels would provide enough grip to prevent slipping, especially around corners.
The design of the Soft Ride bike challenges conventional bicycle engineering. Traditional bike wheels are typically made from rubber and filled with air, which can be prone to punctures and require regular maintenance. In contrast, the Soft Ride bike’s steel wheels are maintenance-free and offer a unique riding experience. The tensioned steel strips provide a level of flexibility and resilience that is not found in traditional wheels, potentially offering a smoother ride over rough surfaces.
Availability and Future Prospects
The Soft Ride bike is available for W Hotel in London’s Leicester Square guests to test out between now and October 29. This exclusive opportunity allows guests to experience firsthand the innovative design and functionality of the Soft Ride bike. After this period, the bike will be auctioned off for the Elton John AIDS Foundation, providing a unique chance for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece of groundbreaking design while supporting a worthy cause.
The auctioning of the Soft Ride bike for charity highlights the intersection of design, functionality, and social responsibility. Ron Arad’s work often transcends mere aesthetics, incorporating elements of social impact and sustainability. By auctioning the bike for the Elton John AIDS Foundation, Arad not only showcases his innovative design but also contributes to a global cause, demonstrating the potential for design to make a positive difference in the world.
The Soft Ride bike by Ron Arad represents a significant departure from traditional bicycle design. Its use of tempered steel and innovative wheel construction offers a unique riding experience that challenges conventional engineering principles. The bike’s availability for testing at the W Hotel in London and its subsequent auction for charity further underscore its significance as a piece of functional art. As the boundaries of design continue to expand, the Soft Ride bike stands as a testament to the potential for innovation to transform everyday objects into extraordinary creations.
Source: : : Ron Arad
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