Wanna meet the touring bike that's also a fold-out mini-camper? The Cercle is the ultimate green,
a nomadic bicycle that calls out to all the free spirits of the world.
Let's go check it out.
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This exciting hybrid touring-bike-slash-mini-camper
is built around a large aluminum ring, or "circle," if you will.
Austrian Inventor Bernhard Sobotta finished his Bachelor of Industrial Design at Austria's FH
Johanneum University of Applied Sciences. His final thesis simply asked the question.
"Is it possible to integrate overnight accommodation on a bicycle?".
The answer to that question is the Cercle.
Inside the circle is a flat-packed aluminum module known as the Camping Companion. While functioning
as a bicycle, these unique hanging handlebars are connected to the front wheel via steering cables.
This contraption converts into a chair, table, or cot when you've found a quiet spot to rest.
Racks and paneers can be affixed to the front and rear side modules of the Cercle for storage
and gear, just like most touring bikes, but it's important not to overload. This entire
home on the road is pedal-powered, so you gotta be prepared to lug everything with you.
Once you've found a spot in the forest or by the lake and it's time for a quick bite to eat,
the Cercle transforms with just a few easy maneuvers.
Kick out the two-legged kickstand, swing out the Camping Companion,
and you've got a reclining chair with a small dining table ready to go. Once you've finished
dinner and it's time for a nap, the module folds back flat as a cot for the night.
Now back to the Cercle.
Unfortunately, there's no weather protection other than a BYO
sheet of tarpaulin. Still, there are plans to integrate an over-the-frame tent. So,
if you like sleeping under the stars, maybe make sure there aren't any clouds as well.
Currently, the Cercle is just a prototype. However, Bernhard has
put in over 620 miles on his creation, reporting that it performed very well.
The second generation of Cercles is being planned for a crowdfunding initiative sometime in 2022,
but for now, Cercel's are a custom-designed one-of-a-kind.
Could you tour the great outdoors on the back of a bicycle? Do you like sleeping under the stars,
or do you prefer the creature comforts of four walls and climate control?
Let us know in the comments below!
Suppose you're sold on the idea of pedal-powered adventure but need a
little more protection from the elements. In that case, special mention has to go to
the Mody Bicycle Caravan we featured in a video earlier this year.
The three-model series from German manufacturer ModyPlast are not only bike-towed.
Built from lightweight fiberglass and coming in at only 110 pounds empty,
these Bike Caravans can be towed through harsh terrain without slowing you down.
Still, they have included solar systems for lighting and appliance charging.
To learn more about the Mody Bicycle Caravan, click the video in the top right
or check the link we've left in the description below.
Of course, if you want to go even lighter, the B Turtle has a range of inflatable
bicycle campers with a surprising number of innovative inclusions.
When packed away, the B Turtle is low profile, lightweight yet sturdy.
Find your spot, and with one quick flick of the self-inflating mechanism,
a two-person tent with a privacy awning appears before your very eyes. Underneath the chassis,
you'll find a 120-L slide-out storage compartment for water or other gear.
For a full rundown on the entire B Turtle range, including all specs and performance details,
click the video in the top right or check the link we've left in the description below.
And finally, we couldn't talk about innovative bicycle campers without
mentioning one of the strangest hybrids to ever be realized.
The Z-Triton can only be described as the only bicycle-slash-camper-slash-boat out there.
Despite its wacky appearance and even stranger utility, it works.
When it's a bike, it uses pedal-assisted electric motors connected to batteries and a solar rig.
Hit the water, and the Z-Triton floats, diverting power to a small 12V outboard motor. Then when
it's lights out, after a few modifications, a small, cozy cabin sleeps two.
We covered this curious camper in a previous video,
so if you want to check out the full review, make sure you click the link in the top right corner!
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