The Better Bicycles Project

The Better Bicycles project has evolved over the years. It started out as a collaborative site where academics could share research findings, and engineers could share information such as design calculations and CAD models. We reviewed the scientific literature to understand the basic criteria for a better bicycle, what makes a bike fast, and what makes a bike safe.

In trying to understand what the ultimate transport bicycle would be like, we realized we could create a better bicycle. In a joint research project between The University of Bath and Muelaner Engineering Ltd, we developed hundreds of 3D models and eleven prototypes, testing and learning a lot about how bicycles really work. This led to the BriefBike concept, and Better Bicycles Ltd was then created to develop this into a working bike.

I’ve used folding bikes as my main transport for decades. Noticing the little challenges I faced made me want to apply my engineering knowledge to find solutions that everyone can benefit from. I created Better Bicycles a few years ago to bring together engineers, scientists, and cyclists, with the shared mission of making bikes more practical for everyday transport use. We now have thousands of members, including some world-class engineers. It’s really exciting to see our ideas become a reality in the BriefBike.

Dr Jody Muelaner, _{PhD CEng MIMechE MBA}

Project Founder

Our First Folding Bike Concepts

Our first designs were an attempt to combine things we’d seen already working well. We were particularly focused on elements of the Strida folding bike, which folds and unfolds much more quickly than other designs and can be conveniently rolled along when it is folded. One of the biggest problems with the Strida is it is very long when folded, so it’s not always that easy to store it. We planned to achieve a much more compact second-stage fold. We also wanted to include some cargo and child carrying.

I’ve had a Strida for many years and it’s been a real inspiration. I’ve found that when a bike folds and unfolds so quickly, you use it in a completely new way. Whether I’m going to someone’s house, a business meeting, or to the shops, it’s so easy to take the bike with me everywhere. I keep it on a hook next to the front door, and it’s usually the bike of choice I grab as I go out.

Dr Jody Muelaner, _{PhD CEng MIMechE MBA}

Project Founder