Copenhagen Conference on Climate Change Introduces Smart Wheel for Bicycle

The clever folks at MIT have developed a smart wheel that could give bicycle riders a 21st century boost.

The new Copenhagen wheel

(Credit: Senseable City Lab)

Unveiled Tuesday at the Copenhagen Conference on Climate Change, MIT's new Copenhagen wheel is trying to do its part to help the environment by making bike riding easier and more enjoyable. (Easier Yes More Enjoyable that is subjective)

The wheel's battery can store energy as you step on the brakes and then return that power back to help you climb a hill or boost your speed. A sensor inside the hub measures your effort when you ride. As you pedal forward, the sensor tells the wheel's electric motor to give you a boost. When you hit the brakes, the motor regenerates, slowing you down and recharging the batteries. The goal behind this design is to encourage people to bike farther distances, relying less on gas-guzzling transportation.

The wheel can communicate with your i-phone so of course there is now another app for riding your bike.

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