Circular economy spotlight: Vinylize turns bicycle brake cables into stylish eyewear
At THE PACK, we believe the future of mobility isn’t just electric, it’s also sustainable. That’s why we’re launching ‘Circular Economy’, a new category dedicated to entrepreneurs and creators who turn waste into value. From repurposed bike parts to innovative recycling projects, we’ll spotlight ideas that close the loop and inspire smarter, cleaner ways of living and moving.
CYCLO eyewear collection
The global cycling boom has left us with more than just miles of new bike lanes, it has also created a quiet waste problem. Each year, countless bicycle brake cables are discarded, most of which are difficult to recycle. Instead of ending up as scrap, some of these cables are now being reborn as eyewear.
Enter Vinylize, the Budapest-based design house known for transforming unexpected materials into handcrafted glasses. Their latest innovation, CYKLO, gives new life to old bicycle brake cables by weaving cycling history, sustainable thinking, and cutting-edge design into one bold collection.
From Bowden brakes to bold frames
Inspired by the Bowden cable brake, first introduced in 1896 and a milestone in cycling’s evolution, the CYKLO range mirrors that same spirit of flexibility and performance. Each pair of glasses incorporates upcycled steel-core cable temples, combined with lightweight cellulose acetate fronts. Like a bike that adjusts to its rider, the temples can be fine-tuned for a perfect fit.
The design language of the six CYKLO models is sleek, urban, and movement-inspired — a nod to the cycling lifestyle that fuels the collection.
Waste with a second life
What makes CYKLO truly unique is its production process. Vinylize partners with local bicycle shops to collect used brake cables. These are then sorted, cleaned, cut to size, and laser-engraved before being assembled into new eyewear. Because the raw material comes from discarded parts, no two frames are exactly alike. Each carries a story of reinvention.
Founder Zachary Tipton sums it up: “An unbelievable amount of brake cables are discarded each year, which are difficult to recycle. What we are doing with eyeglasses is small, but it’s a start. Hopefully, people will be inspired to find other uses for this amazing material.”
A legacy of reinvention
CYKLO continues a two-decade tradition of rethinking waste. Vinylize was born when Tipton crafted his first glasses from a 12” Creedence Clearwater Revival vinyl record, held together with cigar box hinges. Today, the brand recycles over three tons of vinyl records annually, handcrafting premium eyewear in their Budapest workshop.
The CYKLO line is not only sustainable but also stylish proof that waste can be transformed into wearable design.
Availability
The CYKLO collection is available online, with six models priced between $550-$700. Each pair comes with a custom case made from repurposed bicycle tires, further extending the circular design philosophy. CYKLO eyewear is available through https://vinylize.com and selected Vinylize opticians worldwide.
