Forget Brompton, this folding bike mixes convenience with out-of-this-world, sci-fi design
The Tetra folding bike looks like it rolled straight out of a sci-fi movie
Quick Summary
This could be the first folding bike that truly prioritises style along with portability.
The Tetra pairs an eye-catching space-frame design with full rear suspension and larger wheels for a great-looking yet capable commuter.
Folding bikes aren't exactly known for turning heads, but a new design from South Korea might just change that. Called the Tetra, it looks less like a commuter bike and more like a futuristic concept vehicle, complete with an exposed tubular frame that wouldn't look out of place in a sci-fi blockbuster.
Created by startup Analog Machine Works, the Tetra takes aim at premium folders like the Brompton, but goes in a completely different direction. Instead of the familiar compact frame and tiny wheels, this bike uses an elongated space-frame built around two opposing tetrahedron shapes, giving it a distinctive geometric look while also improving rigidity.
The clever frame also enables four separate folding points rather than the usual three. Once collapsed, the wheels lock neatly together, and a pair of small caster wheels let you roll it around stations or offices rather than carry all 13kg of it.
Where it really stands apart from most folding bikes, however, is ride comfort. Rather than relying on flex in the frame or a simple rubber suspension block, the Tetra features a proper rear linkage with an adjustable hydraulic shock absorber.
Add in larger 20-inch wheels – compared to Brompton's 16-inch setup – and it should cope much better with potholes and rough roads.
The rest of the spec is reassuringly premium too, with a chrome-moly steel frame, Shimano disc brakes, a 9-speed drivetrain and custom crankset. It's clearly aimed at enthusiasts rather than casual riders.
Of course, all that engineering doesn't come cheap. The Tetra is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, where early backers can reserve one for around $2,390 (roughly £1,750), with a planned retail price of $3,990 once it reaches production.
As with any crowdfunding campaign, it's worth remembering there's always some risk until bikes are actually shipping.
Even so, if you've ever wished your folding bike looked as exciting as the rest of your tech, the Tetra might be the most striking two-wheeled gadget you'll see this year. Whether it can tempt loyal Brompton and e-bike owners away is another question entirely.
