rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts
all images courtesy of kasper schwartz

 

 

 

 

‘rubybike’ is a bicycle concept that product design graduate kasper schwartz has accomplished as part of his graduation project from the royal danish design school in copenhagen. the manufacturer kildemoes has been a collaborating partner on the concept and is distinguished by its special equipment-platform, that makes it easy to add or replace various equipment. in addition, the ‘rubybike’ can easily be upgraded to an e-bike, which in combination with the equipment-platform, gives a modern everyday bicycle, that is adapted to the individual cyclist’s many and often changing, transportation and practical needs.

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 2the ruby bike in two different colors

 

 

 

‘rubybike’ includes a compact, lightweight and transportation-friendly frame design, and it’s equipped with 24-inch wheels instead the standard size of 28 for most bicycles. this, among others, contribute to a shorter total length, and also makes the bike more steering friendly and ready to react in the traffic. furthermore, the overall width of the bike can be greatly reduced by folding in the handlebars and pedals. this is especially handy when parking the bike in areas with limited space or when bringing it on to the train or subway.

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 3the stem to the handlebar features a touchscreen display

 

 

 

to substantiate ‘rubybike’s’ customizability, it’s also possible to upgrade to an electric bicycle without affecting the bike’s appearance. the upgrade is done by placing a battery in the middle of the frame, and replacing the front wheel with another, that has a built-in electric motor in the wheel hub. another important detail of the bicycle, is that it has a display built into the handlebars. the smartphone connected display is used for GPS navigation, provide information on speed, distance and calories burned, and convenient notifications on messages and phone calls. additionally, the ‘rubybike’ is also equipped with an intelligent lighting system, that automatically turns the lights on when it gets dark and also during braking . kasper schwartz’s ‘rubybike’ is targeted at people looking for a city-friendly everyday bicycle that is stylish, refined and characterful, but which is also practical, useful and durable, and can be easily adapted to suit their needs – even if they would eventually change.

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 4the handlebars fold forward for storage purposes

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 5the ‘rubybike’ would include detachable baskets and fenders 

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 6the potential bike includes a belt drive system

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 7the ‘rubybike’ logo

 

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 8the upgradable electric kit 

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 9the bike pedals fold flat 

rubybike concept extends lifecycle with upgradable electric package and swappable parts - 10the bike at night has built-in LEDs

 

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: piotr boruslawski | designboom