Stu Robarts, GizMag

Waterproofs and ponchos might keep you dry when you’re out for a walk, but they don’t really cut it when you’re on a bike. Your arms and legs are left exposed and it can make for a cold, wet and miserable ride. However, the new waterproof bike poncho design called “Boncho” acts like a pop-up tent to keep cyclists dry.

The bike poncho’s extended section pops out in a similar way to pop-up. (Credit: Vanmoof)

The Boncho, an amalgamation of the words “bike” and “poncho,” was designed by Dutch cycling firm Vanmoof, a couple of whose GPS-enabled e-bikes Gizmag has covered previously. We’ve seen other contraptions aimed at keeping cyclists dry in the rain – like the Veltop, the Dryve and the LeafxPro – but none of them are as simple an idea as the Boncho.

This bike poncho’s extended section should cover the handlebars, protecting the wearer’s legs and feet from the rain.(Credit: Vanmoof)

Rather than create something that attaches to the user’s bike, as is the case with these other examples, Vanmoof has simply modified the type of waterproof top that cyclists might already be wearing when it rains. It describes the final design as a “full-body bike poncho.”

Although it is very similar to a conventional rain poncho for cycling, the Boncho has an additional semi-rigid section that extends over the handlebars, protecting the wearer’s legs from the rain and keeping them dry. Two fabric strips on the underside of the extended section allow the user to hold it in place while still gripping the handlebars.

The bike poncho is being designed to be lightweight, breathable and durable. (Credit: Vanmoof)

In order to ensure the Boncho is of use even when users get caught in the rain unexpectedly, Vanmoof has designed it to pack away into its own compact carry pouch. This means it can be stored comfortably inside most bags for use when it is needed all of a sudden.

The Boncho you order will be fully waterproof. (Credit: Vanmoof)

It is made to be fully waterproof, lightweight, breathable and durable. Vanmoof also says it can be used with bike helmets, with small helmets able to be worn underneath the hood and larger helmets able to be worn on top of the hood.

A Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign for the Boncho is ongoing. At the time of writing, individuals who pledge from €55 (US$60) can receive a Boncho, assuming all go to plan with the roll-out. It’s available in mint or grey colors and in small, medium or large sizes.

The video here provides an introduction to the Boncho.

Sources: Kickstarter, Vanmoof