igus, a German manufacturer of high-performance polymers, has unveiled a bicycle made from 90% plastic to mark the 25th anniversary of igus India and the 60th anniversary of igus Germany. The igus:bike is crafted from recycled plastic waste, making it weather-resistant, corrosion-free, and maintenance-free. With components such as ball bearings, drives, and freewheels that function without oil, the bicycle exemplifies igus’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, the company stated in a media release.
Currently on a global tour across 16 countries, the igus:bike arrived in India on January 27, 2025. The world tour, which began at the company’s headquarters in Cologne, Germany, will showcase how plastic waste can be repurposed into valuable resources for the future of urban mobility.
The technology: igus innovates in polymers, designing and manufacturing components such as bearings, energy chains, and linear guides that offer a lightweight, maintenance-free, and corrosion-resistant alternative to traditional metal counterparts. These innovations not only enhance efficiency and durability but also significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint during production and use.
These components do not require lubrication – a massive step in sustainability. Lubricants are environmentally harmful, and often end up in water sources, creating issues. The igus:bike is an example of how such polymers can work in real-world applications, and help promote sustainability, cost efficiency and innovation, the company said.
Dr. Thilo Schultes, CEO, dry-tech new business, igus said, “igus:bike is a testament to the company’s efforts in advancing the circular economy for plastics. As a company with 60 years of expertise in manufacturing industrial components for movement from plastic, we are committed to driving the transformation to a sustainable circular economy for plastic. The igus:bike represents a significant milestone in this journey. Through this world tour, we aim to inspire companies and consumers alike to embrace sustainable solutions.”
Deepak Paul, Managing Director, igus said, “igus:bike have proven that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. With this innovation, our team has proven that the circular economy is not just an aspiration but an achievable reality. This world tour is more than just a showcase of our technology, our goal is to show the world that plastics, when managed responsibly, have the potential to revolutionize industries and reduce environmental impact. We also aim to inspire consumers to see plastic as a resource, not waste.”
igus is committed to driving the transformation towards a sustainable circular economy for plastics. The igus:bike exemplifies this commitment. Up to 50% of the bicycle’s components are manufactured from recycled materials, including plastic waste like fishing nets and shampoo bottles. igus researchers are continuously working to increase this percentage, paving the way for a future where plastic waste becomes a source of raw materials, the company added
