Could this wheel design revolutionise the bike?

In its 200 year history, the humble bicycle hasn't changed an awful lot.

There's still a wheel at the front, a wheel at the back, a comfy (ish) bit to sit on and usually some pedals. 

Italian designer Paolo de Giusti believes he may have fine-tuned the usual design with this, the '36/28 postale'.

The name is leant by the bike's striking 36-inch rear racing wheel and 28-inch front wheel: a design that sees a larger return of 'power' from the same number of pedal revolutions (though yes, it would be slightly harder to crank all 36 inches of wheel than a regular 28-inch model).

Bikes with a larger rear wheel are by no means a modern creation: De Giusti's design is different in employing a super symmetrical frame that doesn't alter the rider's position from that of a usual bike.

Currently a 3D-printed concept, with an eight-geared internal rear hub, LED bulbs in the handlebars and thick tyres, it's a bold design.  

Here's hoping De Giusti puts it into full production - if only to see hipsters across the nation ruin their hair as they reach unprecedented speeds.  

(Images: Paolo de Giusti)

[Via: Design Boom]