whether you are looking for more pedaling speed or a full body workout while cycling, the Varibike bicycle will fit the bill perfectly. and by full body workout we do mean your arms get to participate in the pedaling process instead of just holding on to the handlebars. at a glance, the Varibike looks like any regular bicycle, but obviously, it is not exactly your run-of-the-mill two-wheel pedal-powered ride. fitted on it is a traditional leg-powered drivetrain, as well as a handlebar stem-mounted set of cranks that let your arms get to work by repeatedly turning to increase the bicycle power output. naturally, with both arms and legs at work, it is possible to achieve a faster speed and at the same time, let your arms part take in the exercise, thereby achieving the said full body workout.
input from the arms is transmitted to the main drivetrain via a rubber-sheathed chain drive, which allows you power the bicycle with just your arms or just by leg-power, or a combination of both for a boost of power. there is also a traditional handlebar (flanked by the cranks), albeit one that’s significantly shorter, that sits on the front fork and angled slightly towards the rider for a more upright riding position. the handlebar is also where you will find the speed shifter as well as the brake levers. with this dual-pedal setup, the steering takes on a more unorthodox route: instead of turning the front like any bicycles, turning the Varibike requires you to lean from side to side, just like you would do for skateboards.
as of now, there are two models available: a base model FR2 and a newer FR3 model. the FR2 with features like 7005/7020 aluminum frame, Shimano drivetrain (including a 10-speed derailleur and chains), TRP CX-9 brakes, Ritchey Pro V2 seat post, Pro Turnix Titan saddle, and Schwalbe BigApple 28×2.00 tires. the FR3 is basically the FR2 with added features like CNC-milled arm cranks with individual freewheel that allows the Varibike to be turned in a “Synchron Style” (think rowing a boat), in addition to the traditional alternating turning style. want one? well, then prepared to drop pretty penny for either one. the FR2 has a sticker of €3,999 (about US$5,350) while the newer FR3 will set you back at €4,499 (around US$6,020).
