BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
The Goude Design Group is to market the Gekko folder to UK IBDs. Simon Goude – he of Indicator glove fame – will be responsible for helping to raise the profile of the brand through the media, something he’s been rather good at, with Indicator gloves and Phat bikes being seen in many lifestyle mags and newspapers.
"We are contacting our 250+ IBD account customers with a view to stocking the Gekko for the run up to Christmas," said Goude.
"Initially impressed by the Gekko’s high-tech aircraft engineering, I also like the way it folds and unfolds very quickly like an umbrella. In time trials at our office we have managed 15 seconds to fully unfold the bike ready for use. The Gekko is very sturdy and rides well with a ‘big bike feel’ and the rack at the back will carry a decent load."
Perhaps the biggest potential for the Gekko is as a ‘use-in-emergency’ bike for the boot of a car. Goude is planning to target London motorists – who will soon be paying £5 to travel into central London – with the strapline "Put a Lizard in your boot."
"Our aim is to encourage commuters to put a Gekko in their boot and park outside the charge zone," said Goude.
"They can then cycle into town or to the nearest tube where the bike folds away easily for carriage on public transport or for storage. London car drivers can expect to see media coverage of the Gekko soon. We will be working with our London dealers on in-store promotions that may include free maps showing parking options and ‘Gekko’ travel to nearest public transport hubs."
The Gekko was first seen in the UK three years ago as a prototype when it was known as the Ant. It was developed by Australian inventor Jamie Herder who had worked on the design for over 10 years.
The Gekko, along with a tandem microfolder, will be on the Gablemere stand at Cycle 2002, September 26-29th.
Tel: 01462 485 717
