Cercle, the Bike that Folds into a Mini-Camper

campingdesigntransport

May 10

Written By James Vick

Could you tour the great outdoors on the back of a bicycle?

Do you want to meet the touring bike, a fold-out mini-camper? The Cercle is the ultimate green, a nomadic camper bicycle that calls out to all the free spirits of the world. This exciting hybrid touring bike-slash-mini-camper is built around a large aluminum ring, or "Cercle," if you will.

Austrian Inventor Bernhard Sobotta finished his Bachelor of Industrial Design at Austria's FH Johanneum University of Applied Sciences. His final thesis asked the question. "Is it possible to integrate overnight accommodation on a bicycle?"

The answer to that question is the Cercle.

Inside the circle is a flat-packed aluminum module known as the Camping Companion. While functioning as a bicycle, these unique hanging handlebars are connected to the front wheel via steering cables.

This contraption converts into a chair, table, or cot when you've found a quiet spot to rest.

Racks and paneers can be affixed to the front and rear side modules of the Cercle for storage and gear, just like most touring bikes, but it's important not to overload.

This entire home on the road is pedal-powered, so you must be prepared to lug everything.

Once you've found a spot in the forest or by the lake and it's time for a quick bite, the Cercle transforms with just a few easy maneuvers. Kick out the two-legged kickstand, swing out the Camping Companion, and have a reclining chair with a small dining table ready.

Once you've finished dinner and it's time for a nap, the module folds back flat as a cot for the night.

The Cercle is the ultimate nomadic bicycle camper, calling out to all the free spirits of the world.

Unfortunately, there's no natural weather protection other than a BYO sheet of tarpaulin. Still, there are plans to integrate an over-the-frame tent. So, if you like sleeping under the stars, maybe make sure there aren't any clouds.

Currently, the Cercle bike camper is just a prototype. However, Bernhard has put in over 620 miles on his creation, reporting that it performed well. The second generation of Cercle’s is being planned for a crowdfunding initiative sometime in 2023, but for now, Cercle’s are a custom design.