TI Cycles Introduces Foldman

A folding bike has been introduced by TI Cycles India to make cycling more popular and encourage it as a healthy exercise. This bike can be split into two, and re-fixed after being transported to some other place. Assembling the cycle can be done in a matter of minutes. Two BSA models of the folding cycle have been introduced by the Chennai based organization.

Claimed to be the first of its kind in India, the designer cycle (Foldman) can be folded in three steps and parked conveniently at any place. The first step involves folding the handle downwards, the second step separates the main rod connecting both the wheels with a lever, and the third step clubs the front wheel with the back one. The foldable bike, weighing about 13 kg, can be transported in the boot of a car or carried in a bus, train or any mode and fixed in a jiffy to resume cycling.

'The two models namely the Utopia and the Spring are equipped with high-quality six speed Shimano gears and advanced suspension systems. The portable cycles are fun to ride, comfortable and easy to maintain,' TI Cycles Brand Manager Sandeep Sridhar said at a preview of the folding bikes.

Priced at Rs.7,999 and Rs.8,999, the two models are targeted at the young and the old for recreational activity and weekend expeditions. As an ideal exercise for legs, cycling scores over walking, jogging or running in burning calories and reducing weight.

The company is launching the bike in six cities across the country, including the four metros (Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai) besides Bangalore and Hyderabad over the next couple of months.

'We are positioning Foldman for institutional as well as retail buyers. It is well-suited for health clubs, holiday resorts, academic and corporate campuses and farm houses,' Sridhar noted.

TI Cycles is part of the Rs.62.5 billion Murugappa Group, with about 40 manufacturing facilities in 12 states across the country. The company's leading cycle brands are BSA and Hercules.

IANS