Bicycles are perhaps the one mode of transportation that would never go out of style. It promotes a healthy lifestyle, is eco-friendly and lets you view your surroundings and enjoy it in your own sweet time. The Twist Freedom DX by Giant is remodeled after the original Giant Lite that debuted in 2005. Unlike its predecessor, however, the Twist Freedom DX is not an electric bike. The Twist uses what the Giants call ‘Hybrid Cycling Technology’. Although the bike was originally due to appear for the masses in May, it will not be making an appearance until later this year.

The hybrid cycling technology is a fully integrated, motor-assisted riding system that uses Giant ‘Ride Control’. This system allows riders to power the bike by pedaling and sensors in the pedals inform the motor on the excess power required to assist the rider. This gives the rider a smooth ride, allowing him to cycle with lesser effort while saving power at the same time. The frame of the bike is made from lightweight aluminum and the bike includes two lithium ion battery EnergyPaks. The Twist Freedom DX is available at Giant for $2250.

Via: GearCave

Renting out bicycles for public usage is no new thing. But devising a complete automated and unmanned bike rental kiosk like system is definitely a novel idea. Ubicycle public bicycle service, thought by design firm Continuum, the Hundred Dollar Laptop project people the bike rental system definitely comes to fore as a promising one.

These kiosks will be powered by solar panel roofs and RFID-embedded Smart cards to keep a track of users and security purposes. Not just the RFId tags, but also the unique green colour of the bikes will not let thieves fly away or ride freely on these bikes.

The fact that the bikes can be rented with your good old public transportation card makes them all the more convenient to use and access. He kiosks will be available through out the city so that you can drop the bicycle at the point nearest to your destination.

Via: Dvice/ DContinuum