Being seen - this is an important aspect of cycling, sometimes vital: the two Berliners Antoine Capeyron (right in the photo) and Eberhard "Ebi" Schilling (left) had a good idea: look good and be clearly visible. At their company Happarel Bicycles, they cover bicycle frames with the same reflective film used by road sign manufacturers. The highlight: the bike frame reflects the light, which either simply gives the frame a chic new look at sunset or fluoresces in the headlights of cars at dusk - or, as in the photo, thanks to the flash when taking pictures. "We just love the safety aspect," says Ebi Schilling. One small problem: although reflectors on bikes are required by law, a reflective frame is actually not compatible with the road traffic licensing regulations. "We can't aggressively advertise safety if it contradicts the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations," explains Schilling. Instead, customers have to sign a disclaimer - in case the police are bothered by the shiny bike. Yet another example of how legislators can still improve things in favour of cyclists when it comes to bicycles. Visibility not allowed? The two young entrepreneurs only care to a limited extent - they process every type of bike: from urban-style fixies to mountain bikes and racers. The cost of making your bike shine: from around 250 euros. Metal frames are sandblasted, carbon frames are simply roughened. The customer can choose a design and the French-born Capeyron applies the idea to the foil, which is then cut using a cutting plotter. They then cover the film with a layer of clear varnish. Does the film add weight? The two have not yet considered the answer to this question.
More info: http://www.happarelbicycles.berlin
