Aroc: The Racing Sledge That Feels Like Riding a Motorbike

Revolutionizing the World of Sledging with Aroc

The world of winter sports just got a whole lot more exciting with the introduction of Aroc, a racing sledge that combines the thrill of downhill biking, motorbiking, and skiing. Designed by the talented team at Kessler, Perren & Aeschbacher, Aroc aims to revolutionize the way we experience sledging.

With its unique steering mechanism, Aroc offers a riding experience that feels remarkably similar to riding a motorbike. By simply leaning into the curve, the mobile body of the sledge can turn on its center axis, allowing the waisted runners to tilt over and enabling carved turns. This innovative design feature sets Aroc apart from traditional sledges and creates an exhilarating sensation for riders.

One of the key strengths of Aroc lies in its convenience and ease of use. The tiltable body and waisted runners make it incredibly agile and responsive, making steering effortless and safe. Unlike traditional sledges, riders can keep their feet securely on the runners at all times, eliminating the need to put their feet into the snow. This not only enables higher speeds but also reduces strain on the knees, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The design of Aroc was realized using a combination of molded wood and a welded steel frame. These materials were chosen for their stability and ease of processability. The frame, made entirely from standardized pipes, provides the necessary structural support. Through extensive experimentation and function studies, the designers were able to achieve the ideal balance between form and function.

Operating Aroc is as intuitive as it gets. Riders simply lean into the curve to tilt the runners, just like on a bike. The sledge offers responsive and smooth maneuverability, as well as natural shock absorption when seated completely. To enhance balance control in curves and maintain speed, Aroc is equipped with a handbrake on each side.

The project to develop Aroc began in February 2014 and was completed in June of the same year in Aarau. The design was exhibited at the annual exhibition of the Institute Industrial Design. Throughout the development process, extensive research and testing were conducted to ensure the ergonomics, controllability, and adaptability of the sledge to various snow conditions and infrastructures.

Aroc has received widespread acclaim and recognition for its innovative design. In 2015, it was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Sporting Goods, Fitness, and Recreation Equipment Design category. This prestigious award is a testament to the exceptional creativity, technical expertise, and innovation showcased by Aroc.

Experience the thrill of sledging like never before with Aroc. Its unique design and exhilarating riding experience are sure to leave you craving for more.