BrakEase
Group Entry: Creative Sports Solutions: Dengfeng Zhu, Juntao Hong, Xizhi Wang, Yuxue Ni, Yuhan Cao.
Loughborough University, School of Design and Creative Arts.
Design description
BrakEase is a low-cost mechanical brake assist designed to make cycling more accessible for people with limited hand strength. Unlike traditional bicycle brakes that rely on gripping force, BrakEase converts the braking action into a simple downward pressing motion, allowing users to brake using larger forearm and arm muscles with less physical effort. This improves comfort, control, and confidence while riding.
The product is manufactured using additive manufacturing and standard mechanical components, enabling affordable production at around £15 per unit. Retailing at approximately £80, BrakEase provides a practical alternative to adaptive cycling products that often cost over £1,500. Future versions will transition to injection moulding and engineering-grade materials to improve durability, reduce manufacturing costs, and support larger-scale production.
BrakEase also supports a circular take-back programme. Customers can return older products in exchange for discounts on future purchases, while reusable components are refurbished or recycled to reduce waste and lower future production costs, supporting a more sustainable and inclusive cycling ecosystem.