Dundalk-based entrepreneur, Simon Chan, is on a mission to re-invent the wheel with his new invention, the Superwheel, a revolutionary bicycle wheel that can significantly improve cycling efficiency and solely relying on human power. 

Superwheel is a promising new start-up company operating out of the Regional Development Centre at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), the Institute’s enterprise and innovation hub. 

The enterprise partnership came about when Simon arrived at the centre two years ago for an initial meeting, carrying a plastic bag with a wooden prototype inside. He outlined how the product worked and also his vision to build a more efficient and eco-friendly bicycle wheel to compete against the e-bike. A wheel he would call the SuperWheel. 

The team at DkIT, who had a relationship with Simon via a previous project, was impressed by Simon’s clear vision and immediately recognised Superwheel as an innovative idea with significant growth potential.  

Through DkIT’s Technology Transfer Office, meetings were arranged with the School of Engineering in DkIT and DCU. Simon subsequently applied for an Enterprise Ireland Innovation Voucher to help determine the efficiency gains.  

Simon was also encouraged to apply for the New Frontiers Entrepreneur Development Programme (funded by Enterprise Ireland) and successfully completed Phases 1 and 2. In tandem, Simon approached an engineering company to support the development of his product and together they set about building a sequence of prototypes each improving upon the efficiency and reliability of the earlier version to culminate in a production version.  Simon used Enterprise Ireland Innovation Voucher funding to support this work on prototype development.  

Simon also availed of additional supports provided by DkIT including access to student placements, incubation support and structured mentorship from the management team at the Regional Development Centre.  

Superwheel is currently being marketed to city commuters, cycling enthusiasts, to any environmentalists out there  still using less sustainable transports and to people who may have a mobility disadvantage that restricts them from cycling. Using the Super Wheel is a green and efficient mode of transport that provides over 30% improved assistance, currently. 

While still in its early stage of development, Superwheel has received distribution contracts with Stephane Basso of CicloCaffè, Bassin D’Arcachon in France, where the first production units have gone on sale. Agreements are also close to being signed with parties in Canada, Hong Kong and Japan. 

For more information on the SuperWheel visit here