Electric walking bike is a treadmill on wheels

We’ve written about the latest in cargo bikes, electric bikes, and artsy bikes created for design shows. But this electric walking bike made us do a double take.

The Lopifit bike, by Dutch designer Bruin Bergmeester, is essentially a treadmill on a bike. A 350W Samsung lithium-Ion battery turns the treadmill while you walk, and the treadmill sits on a bike base that’s longer than usual. There’s also no seat—this is a walking-only affair. Bergmeester invented the bike four years ago; it recently began distribution in the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean.

The battery generates enough power to get you 30-50 miles, a distance on par with many electric bikes used for commuting. And like a regular bike, riders choose the gear or speed they want, ranging from four to 17 miles per hour. According to Lopifit, this means that a person walking on the Lopifit will have speeds equal to or greater the other bike riders on the path.

The design of the bike is striking, with multiple color options on a powder-coated-steel frame. A display on the handlebars shows you the status of your battery, and you can use the back rack for storage. Though we haven’t yet tested the Lopifit, a potential downside is its weight: It comes in at a hefty 125 pounds.

There’s also the question of why exactly someone would prefer a treadmill-like walking bike over a regular bike—or simply walking. With a price of $2,495, it’s doubtful that the niche Lopifit will become a common sight on city streets. But, hey, for anyone who’s been dreaming of an electric walking bike—and you’re undoubtedly out there somewhere—this one’s for you.

Courtesy of Lopifit