A new brand of road pedal called, Nikola, was on-hand at this year’s InterBike show to unveil their new "active Q-factor" pedal called – the Zivo.
The general design of the Zivo is such, that the pedal body incorporates a keyed cylinder that basically allows it to slide and rotate on the spindle as much as 25mm throughout the range of pedal rotation. More specifically, the outer surface of the cylinder features a groove that’s "timed" to a wave pattern, wherein a pin rotates on a sealed bearing and slots into the wave groove. This in turn keeps the pedal body from sliding all the way off the cylinder.
According to Nikola, this freedom of movement helps to stimulate cyclists to use more of their hip muscles (adductor) and glutes, which presumably equates into more muscle activation and power. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, Nikola claims that this creates a more natural range of motion, which can potentially mitigate knee pain or hip problems.
For now, Nikola’s design requires the cyclist to adjust the pedals based on feel. However, they’re currently working on an accelerometer based set up system to calibrate them perfectly for maximum power output.
The Zivo’s are Look Keo compatible, with SPD and flat pedal versions for commuters on the way.
Nikola claims that a set in stainless steel weighs in at just under 300g, while the titanium model comes in at around 225g with a 250lb rider weight limit for the steel bolt equipped pedal and 180lb for the titanium. Pricing has yet to be announced.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrCceXVKdUg
Overview
25 MM OF LATERAL MOTION
The motion of the pedal with Zivo™ Technology rotates around the crank arm with additional lateral motion away from the bike to simulate the motion of a skater. These two combined motions into one gives the cyclist a lab validated competitive advantage by conserving energy.
Studies shows Nikola revolutionary pedal stroke creates a motion that distributes work in the legs introducing new muscle usage. The efficiency allows a person to ride using the same effort, with a lower energy cost. The benefit will be tremendously appealing to cyclist, racers, commuters, and stationary bicycle trainers. Additional feedback from the test subjects stated the potential for relief from lower body joint pains associated with riding.
Initial testing has been completed through Cleveland State University (CSU) Human Performance Lab by Dr. Ken Sparks PhD. Test results of nearly 2/3rds of the male riders showed a range of performance improvements in Net Efficiency or Peak Power.25 MM OF LATERAL
MOTION
ABOUT NIKOLA
Nikola Innovation created a unique concept that improves pedaling efficiencies and rider comfort for cyclists through it’s patented Zivo™ Technology. Combining two motions of a skater and cyclist into one provides new efficiency, comfort, and power for the cyclist.
Our philosophies are driven from the basic laws of science. Our vision is to continue to develop ideas that harmonize the human body with the bicycle.
Nikola Innovation sees opportunities to create new products that improve cycling and positively help users to ride in comfort with optimal performance. We continue to be guided by our science driven development. In coordination with users, we work from the laboratory to the market building the foundation of our products and company on science and revolutionary thinking to bring new products to advance riders everywhere.
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