Powered by solar energy, a new innovation can fill tires and charge mobile phones for cyclists.
Anyone who cycles around the lake in Topusko now has the opportunity to use a new solar pole that can fill tires, charge mobile phones, and even help repair bikes with a handy tool box. “Recro Bike Service”, the first “smart pole” for cyclists, has been introduced in Topusko, reports Lokalni.Vecernji.hr on April 13, 2017.
All of this is thanks to the innovation of two locals – metal expert Davor Žugaj and economist Kristian Kuzmić – who have combined their knowledge and creativity through the company “RECRO Topusko”. The solar pole innovation has been in development since the winter, and just ten days ago the first pole was introduced to the town.
“The country and funds are encouraging cycling tourism and we saw an opportunity for us here. We’ve put together the first pole with the support of the municipality and the Tourist Board and it has already become recognizable in the town,” said Davor Žugaj, whose backyard served as the workshop for “Recro” construction.
“Around 10-15 days ago we sent offers to tourist boards and I must say that Zagreb, Virovitica-Podravina, and Istria have already requested details. In fact, two large tenders for projects in cycling tourism are looking for cost estimates to implement the ‘Recro bike service’ in their projects,” said Kristian, who added that many cities are interested, including those in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“The pole is self-sustaining. Powered by solar energy, there is no digging or infrastructure required, and we integrated LED lighting in the pole which is higher than 2.6 meters so it transforms into a street lamp at night for bicycle repairs to be made possible by night. The materials are of good quality and are Inox stainless steel and aluminum, need almost no maintenance, and are ideal for cycling routes through nature,” added Kristian.
Check out the video below!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v=MxIh6WxOv0o
