igus, a German manufacturing company specialising in high-performance polymers, has unveiled a bicycle made from 90 per cent plastic to mark the 25th anniversary of igus India and the 60th anniversary of igus Germany.
The igus: bike is made from recycled plastic waste, making it weather-resistant, corrosion-free, and maintenance-free. With components such as ball bearings, drives, and freewheels that operate without oil, the bicycle is a testament to igus's commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Currently on a global tour across 16 countries, the bicycle arrived in India on 27th January 2025. The tour officially began at the company's headquarters in Cologne, Germany. Over the year, the igus:bike will travel worldwide to showcase how plastic waste can be repurposed into valuable resources for future urban mobility.
Pioneering Polymer Technology
igus is at the forefront of polymer innovation, designing and manufacturing components such as bearings, energy chains, and linear guides that offer a lightweight, maintenance-free, and corrosion-resistant alternative to traditional metal parts. These advancements enhance efficiency and durability while significantly reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint during production and use.
A major sustainability breakthrough is that these components require no lubrication, preventing environmentally harmful lubricants from contaminating water sources.
Dr Thilo Schultes, CEO of dry-tech new business at igus, stated, "The igus: bike is a testament to our efforts in advancing the circular economy for plastics. With 60 years of expertise in manufacturing industrial components from plastic, we are committed to transforming the industry towards a sustainable circular economy. The igus: bike represents a significant milestone in this journey. Through this world tour, we aim to inspire companies and consumers alike to embrace sustainable solutions."
Deepak Paul, Managing Director of igus, added, "The igus: bike proves that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. Our team has demonstrated that the circular economy is not just an aspiration but an achievable reality. This world tour is more than just a showcase of our technology—it is a mission to show the world that plastics, when managed responsibly, have the potential to revolutionise industries and reduce environmental impact. We also aim to inspire consumers to see plastic as a valuable resource, not waste.
igus remains dedicated to driving the transformation towards a sustainable circular economy for plastics. The igus:bike® exemplifies this vision, with up to 50 per cent of its components manufactured from recycled materials, including plastic waste such as fishing nets and shampoo bottles. igus researchers are continuously working to increase this percentage, paving the way for a future where plastic waste becomes a valuable raw material.