Plastics on the move: the igus:bike continues its tour – this time through Europe
Self-lubricating bike made from recycled plastic has been on the road for seven months and continues to rack up the miles
May 22, 2025 – After kicking off in Germany and making successful stops across Asia, the igus:bike world tour is now cruising through Europe. The journey began in October 2024 at igus headquarters in Cologne, Germany, and aims to raise global awareness about the circular economy for plastics. The goal: to travel 6,000 kilometers without external lubricants, maintenance, or rust.
So far, the igus:bike has tackled the skyline of Singapore, braved tropical rain, navigated the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, and rolled through Taiwan’s scenic landscapes. It’s visited India’s historic temples, explored South Korea’s futuristic cities, and experienced Japan’s blend of tradition and technology. After crossing the Great Wall of China, the bike has now arrived in Spain, the first European stop.
From Spain, the tour will continue through Portugal, France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Along the way, the igus:bike is visiting customers and partners in industries ranging from crane systems to food production—showcasing how motion plastics deliver durable, maintenance-free solutions across a wide range of applications.
A Rolling Symbol of Sustainability
The igus:bike itself is a symbol of what’s possible with motion plastics. It’s lightweight, corrosion-resistant, quiet, and requires no lubrication. As a mobile ambassador for igus technology, it brings innovation to life at every stop. The bike is available as a series product under the name RCYL bike, made primarily from recycled plastic—including discarded fishing nets. It’s a powerful example of how plastic waste can be transformed into long-lasting, high-performance products instead of ending up in landfills or incinerators.
Follow the Journey
You can follow every stage of the tour, see event highlights, and explore behind-the-scenes stories at igus.eu/blog. Interested in seeing the bike in action or learning more about the technology? You’re invited to join the ride, attend a local event, or dive deeper into the motion plastics revolution.
Watch a short recap of the Germany and Asia leg of the tour: https://youtu.be/pn2CrteHSKE
