Hacker News Reader

Comment by devindotcom | Hacker News Reader

Jesus, a thousand bucks. I can't believe anyone would buy one of these for two hundred. It looks unstable, difficult to maneuver, and even dorkier than a recumbent. The basic mechanical principles that make bikes worth having seem to have been left behind.

View on HN

It's like they took all the worst parts of a tricycle, a unicycle, and a broom, and combined them with the inconvenience of standing up the whole time.

I don't know, halfbikes look fun to ride and compact to carry, and definitely less clunky than bicycles. An additional bonus is that literally no one rides halfbikes (and not very many people will for a while, at that price). Riding one would certainly attract looks and questions.

>Riding one would certainly attract looks and questions.

So does wearing a large purple sombrero. That doesn't mean I'm going to pay $1000 for one.

Who the hell are they trying to sell these to? While I understand the labor that could probably go into making one of these (probably less than 4 hours), the total cost of the actual bike should be no more than $100. $1000 for a bike that looks like it should cost about $30 - $50?

And it can't go uphill... From the FAQ: How well does Halfbike handles hills? Riding uphill is alright as long as it is a gentle slope. Halfbike isn't really made for steep hills so if it gets too steep you may have to push.

I also noticed two different frame designs, one of which looks hard to get U-lock through, and the other may be impossible. The FAQ suggests using an 'ordinary cable-lock', which doesn't sound very safe.

You certainly wouldn't want to lock $1,000 up with a cable lock.

I see about $200 worth of parts. Now add the Name, time for fabrication and laminated wood, yeah...

I don't like the single handle bar or tiny two hand handle bar, I would want something with more grip for aggressive riding and peddling.

I'll stick with my BMX.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com