A while back we debated whether there have been any fundamental changes in basic bicycle design in the last 30 to 100 years.
I came accross the StairCycle from StairCycle Innovations which is a departure from the basic bicycle design. Then again maybe it really would not be classified as a bicycle at all. It is some sort of stair stepper / bicycle combination. Here are some video clips of the StairCycle.
They claim…
…many exercise systems are boring and uncomfortable, so we don’t use them regularly. With StairCycle, you can enjoy long rides when the weather is nice and still keep up your exercise program indoors during winter months or rainy days. The natural stair climbing motion is comfortable and provides a more rigorous workout than a conventional bicycle.
The “indoor” part requires the use of an auxillary indoor trainer.
I ride a Giant mountain bike myself and I could not envision myself getting used to this contraption. They do have kid-sized versions. I could see this as an alternative to a scooter for my kids.