Taking cycling to a new level

Staircases can be the bane of a cyclist’s life, but a new style ramp offers a simple solution, believes Allison Parkes-Norris

The Deluxe Bike Ramp, an aluminium alloy modular structure with grooves, fixes to individual steps

The Deluxe Bike Ramp, an aluminium alloy modular structure with grooves, fixes to individual steps

Allison Parkes-Norris

Allison Parkes-Norris

The rise in popularity of urban cycling is evident in towns and cities throughout the UK. Those who commute on two wheels enjoy  health benefits as well as the freedom from being stuck in traffic jams with other motorised vehicles. Our historic cities are being modified to accommodate the growing numbers of cyclists as we see an increasing provision of cycle-friendly initiatives and infrastructure. 

Rising to the challenge

Cycle superhighways, segregated cycle lanes and public cycle parking as well as pump and repair stands are becoming a common sight. These innovations are designed to solve the current problems faced by cyclists with the aim of encouraging more, new and different people to travel by bicycle. However, the challenge of stairs where ramps are not easily retrofitted is an ever-present hindrance for many cyclists. 

Those who have good upper arm strength or a light bicycle may be able to carry it up flights of stairs without too much difficulty. But not everyone finds it easy to negotiate staircases, particularly those who are less physically able or own a heavier bicycle with panniers or luggage.

Cyclehoop has been working on a solution to the staircase challenge. We think we have the answer; the Deluxe Bike Ramp. 

This is a modular extruded aluminium product, which offers a change of direction fom the conventional fabricated steel ramps that can be found on the market. The aluminium alloy is used to create a durable corrosion-resistant slope while ceramic non-slip sheets are used to improve contact and stability of bicycle wheels. There are grooves attached to the two sides of the slope to prevent the ceramic non-slip sheet from falling off.

The ingenuity of the Deluxe Bike Ramp is in its modular design, which comprises of floor-fixing brackets that adjust to different angles of slope. The flexible angle adjustment allows installation into any pre-existing environment – a big bonus when retrofitting in cities with historical architecture. 

Easy installation

The ramp fixes to individual steps to ensure secure installation, keeping it firmly in place so it can’t slip or move while in use. To ensure a bespoke fit, the Deluxe Bike Ramp can be ordered in made-to-measure sizes. 

Installation of the Deluxe Bike Ramp is also fast and hassle-free as the prefabricated structure requires no welding or grinding, a big advantage compared with other more traditional ramps.

It is also a very safe option as the curved profile of the ramp minimises elements that may cause injury. Maintenance has also been considered in the design of this ramp as the channel can be opened and closed with the rotating bracket, making drain cleaning, maintenance and repair easy. 

The modular nature of the prefabricated structure means parts can easily be changed in case of damage, which helps to keep down maintenance and repair costs. It is even possible to attach advertisements or branding to the ramp, for those wanting to get their message out in an innovative way.

Designed by our partners in Korea, this product has won a iF Product Design Award and the Reddot Design Award. 

Cyclehoop plan to launch the product in March 2016, so interested parties should visit www.cyclehoop.com or contact us for more information.  

Allison Parkes-Norris is head of communications & marketing at Cyclehoop