A Unique Amphibious Bicycle: The Innovative Varibike of Richard Kraiß
Was given a proposal for 10,000 euros in exchange for his vehicle.
In the heart of Ulm, Germany, a one-of-a-kind amphibious vehicle has become a local sensation. This unique bicycle, known as the Varibike, is the brainchild of Richard Kraiß, a retiree with a passion for engineering and adventure.
Design Features
The Varibike is a remarkable blend of cycling and boating, designed to seamlessly transition between land and water. Its frame is lightweight yet robust, often made from corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum or specialized alloys to withstand aquatic environments. The frame is equipped with sealed components to prevent water ingress.
The bike's wheels are retractable or convertible, allowing it to roll on land like a conventional bicycle and function as paddlewheels or be replaced by detachable pontoons for water travel. On land, the bike's tires are optimized for road or trail cycling, while on water, the wheels function as paddlewheels or can be replaced by detachable pontoons or floating devices.
The Varibike's propulsion system is equally impressive. On water, propulsion is provided by a pedal-powered propeller or paddle mechanism connected through the drivetrain. This system allows the rider to pedal normally while the bike propels forward on water, utilizing efficient mechanical linkages for smooth transition and operation.
To ensure stability and buoyancy on water, the bike uses inflatable pontoons or rigid flotation devices. The design ensures a low center of gravity to prevent tipping. The Varibike is equipped with a quick and user-friendly mechanism that allows transitioning between land and water modes, including switching wheel positions, deploying flotation aids, and engaging water propulsion.
Capabilities
The Varibike's amphibious design makes it an ideal vehicle for environments where changing between land and water travel is required, such as flood-prone areas, recreational lake circuits, or river crossings. Its pedal-powered efficiency enhances eco-friendliness and reduces operational costs.
The Varibike is versatile, suitable for adventure cycling, commuting in mixed terrain, eco-touring, and rescue missions in flooded zones. It maintains a relatively compact size for storage and transport compared to motorized amphibious vehicles.
Richard Kraiß and His Varibike
Richard Kraiß, a member of the "Everymen" of SVS, can often be seen riding his Varibike through the alleys and streets of Ulm, especially in the evenings, enjoying the cheerful atmosphere during the end of Schwörmontag celebrations. His son, Martin Kraiß, specializes in Varibike movement and runs a bicycle shop in Ulm with such Varibikes.
Despite an offer of 10,000 euros, Richard Kraiß has no intention of selling his unique bicycle. This year's Nabada in Ulm is set to be the highlight as he presents his new amphibious vehicle. Richard Kraiß, a 76-year-old retiree from Suppingen, will be participating in the Nabada in Ulm on Monday.
The Varibike's drive in the water is through the rotation of the rear wheel, powered by muscle power or water current. Varibiking is considered the most effective full-body training, involving the use of both legs and feet, as well as hands or both together for the drive. Richard Kraiß has completed numerous test drives on both water and land with his bicycle.
In conclusion, Richard Kraiß’s Varibike represents an innovative convergence of cycling and aquatic transport. Its amphibious design, featuring adaptable wheels, efficient pedal-driven water propulsion, buoyancy solutions, and seamless land-water transition, marks it as a unique vehicle suited for recreational, practical, and emergency applications. The Varibike stands out for its eco-friendly operation and ability to navigate diverse environments with ease.
In the Ulm region, Richard Kraiß, a retiree known for his engineering passion, has integrated the lifestyle of cycling and boating into one unique vehicle, the Varibike. With its fusion of fashion-and-beauty (amphibious design) and home-and-garden (transformative capabilities), the Varibike is a striking addition to the streets and waterways of Ulm.
