Bike-in-bag aids dolce vita

By STUART DYE

Italian chic is coming to New Zealand. Entrepreneur Mark Carter has won the franchise to import and sell the Italian Foldabike.

The moped folds up in a few seconds to fit into a carrier bag.

Weighing just 30kg, the motorised bicycle is easy to carry and is compact enough to be stored almost anywhere.

Few self-respecting city dwellers in the likes of Rome or Milan would be seen without a moped or, at the very least, a bicycle.

Mr Carter hopes to bring that Continental flavour to Auckland, Wellington and more.

"Having a moped in Italy and other European countries is very much a mindset that we don't have here, but more and more are appearing and the Foldabike is ideal for travelling round city centres," he said.

The bike, designed by former World War II pilot Carmello Di Blasi, will set you back about $3000. It is legal on all roads and has a top speed of 49km/h.

Fullers has agreed the bike can be transported safely on ferries, and Tranz Rail will carry it on trains.

"I've lived in Auckland all my life and watched the congestion build up and up," said Mr Carter.

"A few more of these on our roads could help to stop that."