Urban centers may benefit greatly if more commuters started using bikes instead of cars, but the problem of where to put those bikes is a somewhat difficult one. Public bike racks take up space
that is often in high demand – but this concept would solve that problem by using the spaces that normally go unused.
(all images via: ArchDaily)
The Bike Hanger concept was developed by MANIFESTO Architecture P.C. for the Seoul Cycle Design Competition 2010, a yearly design contest that seeks to make Seoul a more bike-friendly city. The architects reasoned that since urban space is so limited, revolving bike racks could utilize the vertical spaces between buildings.
The concept is ingenious in its simplicity: it is a human-powered revolving rack that can hold up to 36 bikes at a time. Riders attach their bikes to an empty space on the rack, then when they are ready to leave they hop on the human power generator (a small stationary bike) to move their own bike around to the bottom position. Then they just grab it and go – simple, clean, and even healthy.
The rack itself would be constructed of recycled plastics and metals, and because no new structure would need to be built to house the assembly the construction would be relatively clean and eco-friendly. The operating costs would be extremely low, as well: the city would spend around $15 per year on lubrication for the moving parts and for calibration of the human power generating system.
Overall, the concept would encourage more urban travelers to bike rather than walk – after all, parking a bike on the Bike Hanger is bound to be cheaper and easier than parking a car in a garage. The positive environmental impact from the reduction in auto traffic along with a reduced need for new car parking structures could even contribute to a cleaner, more beautiful city for everyone to enjoy.
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