Maybe you cycle for fun or fitness, maybe you do it to cut down your carbon footprint. Whatever the reason, now you can hang up your bike to reduce emissions! We’re not talking about giving up your favorite two-wheeled transport, just a way to store your bike while helping the environment at the same time. You can get involved by backing the Bika on Kickstarter!
The Bika is a sturdy wooden shelf that serves as a decorative and usable shelf space in an entryway or mudroom, but is also fitted with a slot from which to hang your bicycle. The top tube of the bike slides into this opening, getting your bike off the floor and out of the way, while still providing a useful space that blends right into your existing decor.
The wood used to make the Bika is called “killwood,” and is sourced from trees that have died as a result of attack by the Canadian mountain pine beetle. The beetle secretes a blue fungus that takes out the tree’s normal defense mechanism of releasing sap to repel insects. This fungus also stops the flow of water and nutrients into the tree, which ultimately causes its demise. Other than the blue tinge left behind by the fungus, the wood is still usable as lumber.
There is an estimated 45 million acres of trees that have fallen victim to the mountain pine beetle. If left to rot, these fallen trees would release as much as 30 billion pounds of CO2 into the atmosphere.
The Bika is made from 15 pounds of killwood for sturdy storage, and it can hold up to 120 pounds. The bike slot is cushioned with cork to safeguard against scratches or dings, and the shelf is a convenient spot to stash your helmet or display decorative items. There is also a rare earth magnet inserted into the base to keep your keys within easy reach. This is one bike rack that can make your ride even more earth friendly.
Take a look at this video from the creators of the Bika explaining how they crafted the design of this unique product.
Image via Kickstarter
