This prototype bike from European carmaker Peugeot (known to DVICE readers for its crazy concept vehicles) is sure to turn heads. The company's new design is centered around something unusual — a centrally mounted place to stow your laptop while pedaling.

Sure, having your laptop slide into a snug, lockable leather case in the central frame of the bike is convenient, but it also serves a very real purpose in creating a better riding experience for the cyclist. Moving the laptop carrying case up to the center of the frame redistributes the center of gravity back to where it would be if you were carrying nothing at all.

We've all experienced that topsy-turvy ride with a messenger bag strapped to our backs. Or felt that same glimmer of fear with our laptop tied to the luggage rack on the back as you make your way through traffic. Anything could happen to your precious cargo.

The Peugeot DL 122 takes the topsy-turvy out of the equation with the repositioning of where it carries cargo — in this case purpose built to be a laptop. With any vehicle, the greatest mass is likely going to be at the center; if you carry items in other locations you'll be tinkering with that mass distribution.

Despite the fact the Peugeot DL122 is made from very lightweight materials — primarily aluminum and wood except for the leather laptop case — the center of gravity is still the center of the bike. Locating the laptop there not only protects it from moving around and potentially getting damaged, it keeps the bike from wiggling around when you ride.

That's an important safety feature.

From the photos released it looks like it will be a good looking and highly functional design typical of the company who has produced bicycles who have won the Tour de France 10 times.

If it is good enough for the Tour, then this urban design should be good enough for your commute. There is no price listed for the concept vehicle at this time.

Via Gizmag