Grow your own bicycle

Bicycles built from bamboo are nothing new, but despite the fact they offer a sustainable and practical alternative to steel this method of construction is rarely used for anything other than expensive designer bikes.

Until now.

California-based Calfee Design helps entrepreneurs in the developing world to build their own bicycles out of locally-grown bamboo.

Bamboo bicycles

Bicycles are an extremely efficient and environmentally-friendly way of moving people and cargo, and in the developing world bamboo bikes offer many advantages over the traditional steel-framed variety.

Bamboo is plentiful, available locally and grows well in dry areas with little irrigation.
The building of bamboo bikes does not require electricity or expensive equipment and is labour intensive, so provides much-need skilled employment and apprenticeships.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “Most people think of cycling as a leisure activity but in some parts of the world it is a life line.”

Fully-comp insurance cover for bicycles

All bikes are vulnerable to theft and in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else. Cycle insurance from the ETA is fully comprehensive and covers electric-assist bicycles.

At no extra cost, it includes new-for-old replacement, cover for accidental damage, third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, we will even come out and recover you and your bike.