The demand for compact and mobile vehicles in the city has grown rapidly over the past decades of the twentieth century. The commercial success of many developments in this direction pushed engineers and designers to master and promote new concepts of individual transport. On this wave in the mid-1980s, an unusual bike was developed called the Strida. The bike initially had a rather extravagant look, but over the next years this did not stop the development from conquering an ever-growing army of fans. As a result, today there are several models and designs of this invention.
What is the secret of this bike? By and large, its creator Mark Sanders did not make any discoveries, but this does not at all negate the merits of the concept he realized. The design feature is its modest dimensions, which at the same time did not prevent to maintain the functionality and reliability of the bike. And now it’s worth getting acquainted with the technical features of the Strida models in more detail.
Design features of the bike
Externally, the bike resembles a large scooter or even a device to help people with disabilities such as a stroller. In fact, this is the simplest design, assembled from frames on which you can move around, like on an ordinary bicycle. But, of course, Strida bicycles for adults have a number of differences. First of all, they are based on an elementary triangular aluminum frame. The familiar chain is replaced by a grease-free drive belt. As a rule, such models operate at the same speed and are equipped with disc- type brakes . Differences in modifications are most often associated with changes in wheel sizes or overall dimensions of the bike.
Design advantages
The main goal of such a radical revision of the classic bike was not just to reduce its size, but also to ensure ease of use with the Strida models. The bike is easily and quickly disassembled, and also has a small mass - about 10 kg. This made it possible to transport models in small racks. Being in a tight traffic jam or narrow street, you can safely use such a bike, and then fold it and carry it like a bag.
Mobility and compactness are the main advantages that distinguish the Strida model from its older counterparts. At the same time, the simple design eliminates the many maintenance hassles for users. If there is a need for repair, then this will not be a problem. Components, accessories and spare parts for the Bridle bike are available on the market, including footrests, brake calipers, pads, pedals made of different materials, drive belts, etc.
EVO Model
Like the bike design itself, the Strida family is minimalist. The lineup is represented by several models, and one of the most interesting among them is EVO. Actually, the main feature of this modification was the presence of a speed switch. The feasibility of implementing this solution is doubtful for many, but in any case, expanding the functionality is not bad. Adherents of traditions can always pay attention to bicycles for adults of this family in basic versions.
Model "Strida 5.2"
This version can be considered as classic. Despite the fact that she is the representative of the fifth generation of Strida bikes, she retained the basic concept of a city mini-bike. So, the model is equipped with a traditional A-shaped frame, 16-inch wheels and has a weight of 9.6 kg. The folding technique is maximally simplified and touches on three elements of the basic construction of the Strida. The bike provides for the analysis of pedals, frames and handlebars, which takes about 15-20 seconds. According to the manufacturer, this version is suitable for people up to 192 cm tall, although there are some doubts about this. The fact is that there are complaints about touching the knees of the steering wheel during the ride - by the way, this is a common problem of such bicycles, which can only be corrected by increasing the elevation of the steering wheel.
LT modification
As you can see, there are no special structural differences among themselves in the models - at least the basic structure remains the same. The same is observed in the case of the LT version. And yet, this model has one interesting feature that the classic "Strida" is deprived of. The bike is equipped with 5-spoke original rims and a plastic boot. By the way, in the basic version, the trunk is made of aluminum. This is a definite plus, as it increases the reliability of storage. However, the plastic compartment reduces the weight of the bike, making it more practical.
How much is?
Based on first impressions, many make conclusions about the affordability of such bicycles. This is partly true, but everything is relative. The fact is that the basic equipment and, in particular, the LT model will cost 30-35 thousand rubles. The EVO model costs 50-55 thousand rubles. For the money you can buy a decent traditional bike, but in this case we are still talking about a thoughtful design and high quality materials from which the Bridle bike is made. A Chinese analogue of such models can cost 15-20 thousand, but the quality will be much lower. It is important to understand that today only the Taiwanese company Ming Cycle has the rights to manufacture such bikes. Fake models, although they are cheaper, but break right before our eyes, which is confirmed by disappointed owners.
Bike reviews
If we talk about the real representatives of the brand, then the opinions will be more likely positive. First of all, cyclists confirm the ease of use in any conditions. The advantages of the design are especially noticed by those who have previously used a traditional bicycle. "Strida", reviews of which are mostly supportive, nevertheless raises a lot of conflicting opinions. For example, there is an opinion that, given its compactness, this bike cannot provide even minimal comfort during the ride. This is partly true and experienced users do not recommend buying such models with the expectation of making long trips. The optimal operating conditions for Strida are a flat city path or sidewalk with predictable coating quality. Also, from the tips of the experienced, it is worth mentioning the need for a comfortable seat.
Conclusion
The Strida is far from the only attempt to create a more compact individual vehicle on the basis of a classic bicycle. However, it was Mark Sanders who managed to minimize the size of the structure, while leaving a margin for comfortable movement and pretty good functionality. However, Strida folding bikes have a ton of limitations. They require a more or less smooth road, the absence of borders and other obstacles. A separate group of problems is associated with the winter operation of this bike. During this period, you may encounter the need for regular cleaning of frivil, brakes and pedals. In return, the owner of the original bike gets the opportunity to quickly move around the city. And this is at a time when motorists, for example, can stand for hours in traffic or hopelessly suffer with a frozen engine.