Self-shifting bikes

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Bicycle manufacturers Giant, Raleigh and Trek are rolling out three-speed bikes that feature chip-controlled, gear-shifting systems. The technology, called "Coasting," was built by Shimano, a bike-component maker for 80 years.

 

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The Lime, made by Trek, features Shimano's Coasting technology. A computer chip is housed near the pedals, and a dynamo, which powers the chip, can be seen attached to the front-wheel hub. The Lime will retail for $579.

 

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A closeup of the front-wheel dynamo, which harnesses the power generated from the wheel turning. The dynamo powers the computer chip and a headlight.

 

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The Shimano "Coasting" system: the rear hub opened up to reveal the internal gears (bottom left); the cranks (center); and front-hub dynamo (bottom). At far right is the housing where the computer chip is protected.

 

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Coasting isn't designed for high performance, such as road racing or mountain biking. "It's not intended for even inclement weather," said Shannon Bryant, Coasting project coordinator for Shimano. "This technology is for casual use or social riding...somebody who wants to tool around town."

 

[lasanka]

interesting concept but i suppose the designs of the bike need to improve!

 

[shanX]

KWL

 

[BlackNight]

All look like girl's bikes

 

[Anusha]

All look like girl's bikes

Self-shifting bikes are for girls
Not that it's not cool.

 

[malshan]

 

[lasanka]

Self-shifting bikes are for girls
Not that it's not cool.

now why does that sound like some what of an insult lolz

 

[Anusha]

now why does that sound like some what of an insult lolz

Insult to whom?
I don't think girls have any idea about gears in bikes

 

[shanX]

Insult to whom?
I don't think girls have any idea about gears in bikes

 

[lasanka]

heheh now thats uncontestable heheh theyll be like.. gear what gear heheh yesh brilliant invention for em!