As bike culture rises in global popularity, slick and expensive models seem to be the trendiest. Going against the grain, Israeli mechanical engineer Izhar Gafni managed to develop a bicycle that only between $9 and $12US to produce.

In order to achieve such an impressive goal, Gafni used the cheapest material of all: cardboard. The bike is not only water-proof, it is also safe and solid – being able to carry up to 220kg – and doesn’t require much maintenance.

Since the bike is lightweight and made of 95 per cent recyclable materials, the project’s business model (developed in collaboration with ERB) will expand production and lower manufacturing costs, also thanks to state incentives for green enterprises.

Photos courtesy of ERB.