A STUDENT has designed a unique gearing system for bicycle.
The system, which is enclosed in a box to protect it from impact and the elements, was developed by Northumbria University student Andrew Finkill as part of his BSc (Hons) in product design technology.
The 21-year-old, from Redcar, was inspired to develop the product while working part time as a bike mechanic.
He said: "The system was designed with downhill racing bikes in mind, but it can actually be fitted to any standard bike.
"It protects the gears from the elements and from any impact and means the gearing system is more durable and needs less maintenance."
The student is travelling to Germany, in September, to spend time with gearbox design company Nicolai Bikes and hopes his prototype gearing will be snapped up by the industry for future development.
He said: "Most of the problems I encounter working as a mechanic are associated with the gears.
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