At the Copenhagen Conference on Climate Change the researchers at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) unveiled the Copenhagen Wheel. The wheel basically stores up energy as you ride it, to then release the energy back as a boost when you need it most. The wheel can also communicate with your iPhone offering a myriad of features.

The mechanics of the Copenhagen Wheel are all housed under the bright red plastic centre. Inside, the main feature to the wheel is a device that stores the kinetic energy given off by the rider applying the breaks. This energy is taken in by an electric motor which then stores it into batteries. The batteries then release this energy to power the motor when the wheel senses you are struggling. This means that when you put more effort into riding, like riding uphill for instance, the bike gives you an extra boost from the power you have stored from breaking. It is thought this will help people be able to travel further by bike and make the whole ride smoother.

Also within the red housing at the centre of the wheel are sensors and a bluetooth connection. You can use an iPhone app to access data being taken by these sensors, such as speed, distance traveled, what the air pollution is in the area, or the traffic conditions ahead. The iPhone can be mounted on a holder on a bikes handlebars to allow you to view this information easily.

Other than a holder for your iPhone, all you need to upgrade your bike is the Copenhagen Wheel itself which the designers hope to have on sale next year.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the MIT’s Copenhagen Wheel article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

© 2008 to 2011 EnviroGadget.com. You can now keep up with the latest eco-gadgets on the EnviroGadget Facebook page. Why not help us to spread the word?

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One of the many ways of being more eco-friendly is to appreciate the great outdoors more. Walking, jogging and cycling are fantastic ways to enjoy fresh air, the environment and get a little exercise. The IZIP Trailz Enlightened bicycle has a special power-assisted cycling mode, which can push you along without peddling up to 18 miles an hour, up to a possible 23-30 miles!

The bike’s downtube (i.e. the bar connecting the front and back of the bike) conceals high capacity Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. When these batteries are charged, they drive a special motor that assists you with your cycling. Just think of the extra help you get when trying to climb a steep hill! When you want to use pedal power, just switch into normal cycling mode.

The special power sensor allows you to adjust how much power is exerted by the motor too, so you’re in complete control of how much effort you save yourself. What’s great about the IZIP Trailz Enlightened model, is that it looks so stylish, you’d need to know what you’re looking for to notice the power assistance.

If you compare it to the entry level model, the IZIP Trailz AL Electric Bike, you’ll notice that the motor is considerably more obvious. Therefore if you want the boost in speed on your bike, but don’t want anyone to know, head for the higher-spec model! Power-assisted bikes are great eco friendly gadgets, combining practicality with style.

Want to buy this gadget? Check out the Stylish Powered Cycling – IZIP Trailz Enlightened article on EnviroGadget to see the lowest prices for this gadget.

© 2008 to 2011 EnviroGadget.com. You can now keep up with the latest eco-gadgets on the EnviroGadget Facebook page. Why not help us to spread the word?

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