Backpack Bike: Foldable Scooter for Hike-In Rides

“Hike up the mountain, and bike back down.” That’s the promise with the to-be-released Mountain Skyver from Ortovox, a foldable, carry-able, all-terrain scooter/bike made to be backpacked up-mountain and converted on top for fast, wheeled descents back down.

There are no pedals and no seat, just foot pegs to stand on — it is made for going downhill only. The gravity-dependent scooter will ship to stores this fall, and prices will start at $1,200, depending on model type.

The Skyver will be available with front- or full-suspension and disc brakes. Its wheels are 16 inches in back and 20 inches in front. The hybrid product is touted by Ortovox as being “as close to backcountry skiing as one can get in the summer.”

The Skyver comes with its own custom backpack to hold the bike as well as a helmet and some gear. The company says the heaviest model will weigh about 19 pounds. Assembly takes seconds on top to convert the bike and make it ready for downhill action.

A unique new product no doubt! The Skyver bike will be debuted next month at the Outdoor Retailer trade show in Salt Lake City. Watch for updates as well as (hopefully) a ride test report from GearJunkie on the Skyver experience soon.

—Stephen Regenold