Looking for the next fitness trend that takes you outdoors but doesn’t include running due to your hips, back or knees? By the same token, not everyone aspires to be a cyclist and walking doesn’t get you there and back fast enough. So what’s a budding or pre-existing fitness enthusiast to do? Simple, get yourself a Lopifit. It’s the world’s first walking bike that acts as a treadmill while scooting you along at the speed of a bicycle. Sound crazy? Perhaps, but it’s catching on in far-flung places around the planet with people of all ages and fitness levels.
Lopifit Bicycle
The invention, created by Lopifit founder Bruin Bergmeester, is an electric walking bike whose concept came about when Bergmeester was working out in his garage one day and thought to himself how nice it would be to use his treadmill outdoors where he’d be able to enjoy nature while he was at it. That’s when the idea of a treadmill on wheels first came to mind. It would be years before his design concept would come to fruition. But from the moment he took it outdoors it gained worldwide attention and a faithful following of Lopifit users, converts from walking and bicycling.
Lopifit Features
The walking bicycle comes with an electric assist, as the designer calls it, in the form of a “powerful electric driven Quantum Motor wrapped in a solid frame made of steel.” This allows users to walk/ride up to four times faster than if they were simply plodding along on foot without any additional effort. The assist, in combination with the gears, boosts a rider’s walking pace up to the speed of riding a bicycle. Not only is this new invention a good, healthy way for you to get your exercise but it’s good for the environment and looks like a lot of fun.
How Lopifit Works
When you hop on the Lopifit, you begin by pushing the treadmill backwards with your feet in a regular walking motion. From there a sensor registers the movement of the treadmill and signals an electronic device to activate the motor. From that point on the motor will support you to continue the walking movement. That’s it. It’s a very simple yet ingenious design. If and when you need to stop, engaging the handbrake will shut off the motor immediately, and going downhill activates a freewheel function so you don’t careen out of control.
Lopifit Extras
You can see from the pictures the bicycle has been designed with a “luggage rack” for a little carrying space, which adds to its convenience. It also features LED lighting on front and back to ensure maximum visibility at night so you don’t get hit. The built-in battery is good for a maximum range of 55 km, which is just under 35 miles of riding/walking time, before you need to charge the Lopifit. It also offers a display to show your battery status, so you can keep track of it and not run out of juice while you’re on the go.
Where to Get Lopifit
If you’re interested in learning more about this product or you’re already sold on the idea and want to find dealers in your area, check out Lopifit’s Website. There are five colors you can choose between that include blue, black, white, red and orange.
The Lopifit Treadmill Bike: Walk-Ride Your Way To Better Health [InventorSpot]