Dezeen promotion: Sofia-based bicycle company Urbanized has launched a range of sturdy bikes, designed for city environments.
The Urbanized bicycle, made by the company of the same name, is equipped with features designed to complement an urban lifestyle, these include puncture proof solid tires, a strong and grease-free belt drive, a durable and sturdy internal gear hub and weatherproof roller brakes.
The bike also has a specially designed handle attached to the frame that allows the user to easily carry the bicycle up and down steps without worrying that the front wheel could turn back and mark your clothes.
"Whether it is the daily commute to work or the cycle ride to the favourite cafe, the Urbanized bicycle proves that style and comfort are not mutually exclusive," said the company.
Urbanized features Tannus airless tires, which are made from a closed-cell polymer foam material, meaning they have no inner tube and are therefore fully puncture-proof.
The tires are also lightweight and combine low rolling-resistance with high grip in all riding conditions.
The Nexus 7 speed internal gear hub by Shimano provides the optimal number of gears for a ride in the city. It is concealed and therefore mud and dust resistant, which makes it almost unbreakable.
As the gear hub doesn't use a derailleur, it avoids the need to maintain one of the most fragile parts of a traditional bike.
Urbanized also features a segment belt drive in place of an ordinary chain, providing lighter, quieter, stronger and grease-free transport. According to the company, it is 10 times more durable than a chain and requires zero maintenance.
The concealed roller brakes by Shimano are durable, reliable, and suitable for all weather conditions. The brake pads don't need to be changed, just one drop of lubricant per year needs to be added.
"Our bikes are created for those who dare to live the exciting city life," said Urbanized co-founder Hristo Tashev. "Cycling has become part of it and for many people a bike is not just a bike anymore – it is a lifestyle symbol and a fashion item."
"The quest for the ultimate urban bicycle is on, and while big brands think corporate, we put our efforts on meeting commuters' true needs," he added. "By setting the foundations for a carefree ride we believe that we have created a perspective for a new urban future."
Each of the Urbanized bikes are built by a single person from start to finish, and finished by hand from the invisible welding to the hand-stitched grips.
They come in a range of colours including graphite, cream, pink, yellow, red, and are available to purchase via the Urbanized website.