Brilliant Products That Can Only Be Found Outside The US

Bicycle Escalators

Bicycle escalators are exactly what they sound like—innovative little footpads placed next to roads that run up hills, designed to help cyclists tackle steep inclines. Cyclists simply place their foot on the pad, and the escalator propels them uphill with ease. Currently, this unique feature can only be found in Trondheim, Norway, but it’s likely that more cities around the world will adopt similar solutions in the near future

After all, who wouldn’t want a little extra boost on a challenging climb? However, installing these devices isn’t cheap, with costs ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 per unit. Despite the price tag, the Trondheim escalator has reportedly assisted around 200,000 cyclists, making it a game-changer for urban biking. Imagine the potential for cities like San Francisco or Vancouver, where steep hills often deter casual riders. Could this be the future of bike-friendly infrastructure? Only time will tell, but the idea is already gaining traction among cycling enthusiasts and city planners alike.