Who says that all bicycles have to be the same? The inventors of the Bicymple have strayed from the herd and created a unique bike that has removed the chain and gears, and offers direct drive through pedals on the back wheel. Normally that would mean you're riding a unicycle, but in this case a front wheel, compact frame and handlebars have been added.

Though it sounds complicated it actually is making the bike easier by removing more of the complex parts like gears. What it does have is the direct drive, freewheeling hub that joins the crank arm axis with the rear wheel axis.

If this sounds a little complicated and you're wondering WTF, the Bicymple is actually designed to be easier to ride and maintain. It has a CroMo steel frame that is just two simple bars that run above and between the two wheels. The forks sit diagonally so there is just a small gap between the front and rear wheels.

Taken at face value it is a smaller and easy bike to ride, plus it's great for storage. If you are looking for a little bit more fun out what is already a unique bike, you have a rear steering mode that allows for greater maneuverability and a method of style of riding called "crab riding."

"Crab riding?" If you are still thinking WTF, perhaps seeing it in action in the video below will clear up a few things and demonstrate the interesting possibilities rear steering adds to your riding experience.

The Bicymple, created Josh Bechtel of Scalyfish Designs is a working prototype. The Bicymple website reports they are looking for funding to move into larger scale production. No word yet on pricing.

Bicymple, via NotCot