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Toronto-based Cycle Armor turns bike protection into a statement. I designed a translucent guard that maps the GTA’s landmarks and cityscape, blending practical durability with vibrant, city-inspired style.
Before this, their protective skins were translucent and practical but somewhat generic and lacked storytelling or identity.
The Challenge: how do you preserve the protective function (durability, form fit, transparency) while weaving in local character?
Process
I was brought on to design a custom print guard that would visually map some of Toronto’s landmarks and cityscape onto the bike.
I began by gathering visual references—Toronto’s skyline, city maps, architecture, and street art—to capture the city’s character. I explored how these motifs would wrap around curved bike frames, balancing visibility with design flow, and refined the landmarks through client feedback to achieve a clear, cohesive print.
Implement &Impact
The design transformed a simple bike guard into a statement piece that celebrates local identity. It quickly became a conversation starter among riders and helped the brand stand out in a crowded market—turning everyday protection into a wearable map of the city.
Though I don’t have hard sales numbers, the client noted the design became a talking point and helped them differentiate in a crowded market (something they hadn’t had before).
Takeaway
This project taught me that even the smallest surface can tell a big story.
Balancing function with visual narrative became my focus, and next time, I’d push it further with bold contrasts and limited editions that capture the spirit of each neighborhood and season.
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