igus Unveils World’s First Bicycle Made From Recycled Ocean Plastics

igus, a German manufacturing company, who are involved in manufacturing of high-performance polymers unveiled a Bicycle made from 90 per cent plastic with components such as ball bearings, drives, and freewheels that operate without oil.

The igus:bike is made of recycled plastic waste, which are weather-resistant, corrosion-free, and require no lubrication. The bicycle, which is currently on a global tour across 16 countries, arrived in India on 27th January 2025. The world tour officially started from the headquarters in Cologne, Germany. Over the year, the igus:bike will travel across the globe to showcase how plastic waste can be transformed into valuable resources for future 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.

Up to 50 per cent 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.