TOPten4Bicycles
and solar powered Cargo trailers - in Extension previous Vello world

TOPten4Bicycles & Solar-Powered Cargo Trailers
Expanding and Evolving the Existing World of Bicycles
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It wasn't buffalo-drawn carts with heavy wooden wheels that ushered China and India into the modern age—it was bicycles. Carrying countless loads on bicycles was, and remains to this day, a driving force behind their development.<<
The real challenge now lies in creating contemporary,
all-weather bicycles that represent a genuine alternative to cars in everyday life.
The patent-free proposals presented here by TOPten4Bicycles are aimed at bicycle manufacturers, their suppliers, as well as technically skilled hobbyists and developers.
I am driven by the passion to develop ideas further until they can realistically function. This is how this concept of a reimagined bicycle came about—as an evolution of the existing world of bicycles, and as an invitation to leave the car at home more often.The real challenge now lies in creating contemporary, all-weather bicycles that represent an evolution of the existing bicycle world and an invitation to leave the car at home more often.
1. Strength lies in tranquility –
ergonomic seatingThe classic bicycle saddle forces the rider into a strenuous, forward-bent posture. Recumbent bikes, on the other hand, position the rider very low and close to the asphalt.A slightly inclined backrest, however, allows for an ergonomically optimal seating position. The handlebars are positioned closer to the rider – similar to an Easy Rider – while the seat position is shifted slightly backward to improve overall balance.
Advantages of the reclined "sofa-like" seating position:
# More powerful and efficient pedaling
# Significantly more relaxed posture
# Reduced risk of falls during emergency braking or collisions
# Optional safety belt with genuine protective function (anchored to the tubular frame of an expanded metal shell backrest; helmet may not be required)
2. Protection from heat and rainBicycles are only used consistently in everyday life if they offer weather protection.
# A
attachable protective canopy with an area of approximately 1.1 m² protects against rain and direct sunlight. The frame and cover are designed to be foldable or rollable.
# Optionally, the aluminum frame can be covered with PV film instead of fabric, generating up to approximately 150 W of solar power during the day – even in diffuse light. This power directly charges a battery integrated into the frame.
# The lightweight, aerodynamic horizontal roof is wind-resistant; it remained stable in tests even in strong gusts.
# A wind- and view-permeable mesh shade provides additional protection from rain and side sunlight.
# Even sporty riders benefit: Covered with simple nylon fabric, the roof weighs only about 200 g and is also suitable for retrofitting.
3. “Ouch, my bum!” –
the rocking saddleConventional saddles are uncomfortable and can be problematic for your health on longer rides.
An alternative saddle consists of two elongated, separate seating surfaces mounted side-by-side on an axle, which move with the rocking motion of the pedals.
This rocking saddle:
# relieves pressure on the sensitive groin area
# seating comfort for men and women
# noticeably reduces pressure and numbness
4. Airless Tire –
Robust & Low-MaintenanceThe featured tire requires no tube, air pressure, wire bead, or fabric reinforcement.
Features:# hard, durable rubber compound
# narrow center bead for minimal rolling resistance
# lateral grip beads for secure cornering contact
# shock-absorbing, thick-walled profile
For heavier loads, the tire can optionally be inflated. The two-piece bolt-on rim ensures a perfect tire fit.
Advantages:
# puncture-proof
# maintenance-free
# recyclable
# ideal for carrying loads and rough terrain
5. The Hand GuardTo prevent microtrauma in the wrists, elastomeric damping elements are integrated into the transitions of the handlebar grips.
These stiff-elastic bridges:
# absorb shocks
# are weight-adjustable
# significantly increase long-distance comfort
6. Spoked WheelThe rear wheel can optionally be equipped with conical fiberglass arc springs or steel leaf springs instead of spokes.
Advantages:# integrated shock absorption
# no additional suspension required particularly back-friendly
# Also suitable for strollers
7. Anti-Theft Lock –
Integrated Security SystemA retractable steel cable lock is integrated directly into the frame. A quick-release immobilizer can also be provided.
Ideally, the following are centrally locked with a single key or remote control:
# Lock
# Battery
# Storage Compartment
# Solar Roof
8. The Small Cargo Bike –
Modular Instead of BulkyInstead of expensive, long cargo bikes, any standard bicycle can accommodate a removable rear cargo basket.
Features:
# Dimensions approx. 60 × 140 × 55 cm (420 l volume)
# Made of woven willow (lightweight, sustainable, repairable)
# Beech plywood base with wheels
# Foldable, lockable, rainproof
When detached, it serves as
a rolling shopping cart. A real alternative for delivery drivers and the self-employed.
9. Heavy-duty trailer with solar powerA low-loader-like trailer, steered by e-bike, enables CO₂-free delivery and taxi services.Key features:
# Length: 2.9 m, width: 1.25 m, 6 m³ cargo space, payload: 900 kg
# Covered with solar-powered fabric (e.g., from Alwitra), side electric roller blinds
# 4 hub motors (350 W each)
# Solar roof with approx. 12 m² of active PV area
# Batteries (inserted into separate compartments) move two ~35 cm twin wheels
# Two additional 60 cm twin rear wheels - 4 rim brakes
# Overrun and parking brake, height-adjustable drawbar
# Load operation via four synchronously switched hub drives, max. 900 kg (350 W each)
# Drawbar-only manual steering up to 2 km/h, reverse gear, first gear 6 km/h, max. 45 km/h
# Low-mounted 3.6 m² loading platform made of 19 mm OSB
# Suspended by ten compression springs between the chassis and loading platform
# Camera instead of rearview mirrors
# Designed for today's climate
10. Conversion to a family car or camping tentThe trailer can be converted modularly:
# Benches for up to 8 people
# PV side panels
# Heating option
# Camping function with 12.4 m² of living space, with attachable side panels that fold out
# Self-sufficient power supply
Even developing countries could implement locally adapted bicycle production. All 10 innovations are available free of charge. Affordable alternative mobility, avoiding the drawbacks of fossil fuels and road construction, would certainly be welcome and essential there.

Conclusion: The presented bicycle concepts:
# promote traffic calming and climate protection
# are modularly combinable
# are suitable for urban and rural areas
# can be used without a license
This bicycle is not just a fair-weather bike, but a versatile, everyday means of transport with great future potential.
© Michael Thalhammer – Vienna, First version: July 2013 | Technically updated: November 3, 2021, AI-enhanced, December 2025