A Breakthrough in Sustainable Mobility: igus Showcases Innovation in Polymers
German polymer specialist igus has unveiled the igus:bike, the world’s first bicycle made from 90% plastic, marking a significant milestone in sustainable mobility. The launch coincides with the company’s 25th anniversary in India and 60th anniversary in Germany. Made from recycled ocean plastics, the igus:bike is corrosion-resistant, weatherproof, and requires no lubrication, underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability.
Pioneering a Circular Economy for Plastics
The igus:bike represents a paradigm shift in how plastics can be repurposed to create high-performance products. By eliminating the need for metal parts and lubricants, the bicycle showcases how polymer innovations can significantly reduce environmental impact while enhancing durability and efficiency. The bike incorporates self-lubricating components such as ball bearings, drives, and freewheels, ensuring smooth performance without the use of harmful lubricants that often contaminate water sources.
As part of a global awareness campaign, the igus:bike embarked on a world tour spanning 16 countries, starting from the igus headquarters in Cologne, Germany. The bicycle reached India on 27th January 2025, demonstrating how plastic waste can be transformed into a valuable resource for urban mobility.
The Technology Behind the igus:bike
igus is a global leader in polymer innovation, designing maintenance-free, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant components such as bearings, energy chains, and linear guides. These materials offer a sustainable alternative to traditional metal parts, reducing energy consumption and carbon footprints in production and application.
Dr. Thilo Schultes, CEO, dry-tech new business at igus, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability:
“The igus:bike is a testament to our efforts in advancing a circular economy for plastics. With 60 years of expertise in plastic-based industrial components, we are driving the transformation towards a sustainable future. Through this world tour, we aim to inspire companies and consumers alike to embrace responsible plastic management.”
Sustainability and Innovation: A Vision for the Future
igus is dedicated to demonstrating that sustainability and technological innovation can go hand in hand. Mr. Deepak Paul, Managing Director of igus India, highlighted the broader vision:
“The igus:bike proves that a circular economy is not just an aspiration, but an achievable reality. Our world tour is more than a technology showcase—it is a call to action to see plastics as a resource, not waste. When managed responsibly, plastics have the potential to revolutionize industries and significantly reduce environmental impact.”
The igus:bike’s components incorporate up to 50% recycled materials, including discarded fishing nets and shampoo bottles. Researchers at igus are continually working to increase this percentage, striving for a future where plastic waste serves as a sustainable raw material.