MUDGUARDS and casing for an innovative bike-in-a-case are being provided by a Bromsgrove firm.

Bayer's ABS plastic Lustran is being used on the new Skoot bike, which folds into a travel case and can be carried or pulled along on large diameter roller wheels.

The radical concept can be stored in the car boot and under an office desk and, while cycling, houses a purpose- made briefcase or lap top case designed for the city commuter.

Managing director of the team of engineers and product designers, Vincent Fallon, said Bayer's extrusion grade met the demanding standards he set for the top of the range product.

"Lustran was ideal for Skoot because it's very strong, durable, UV resistant and allows an attractive finish," he said.

"As a result Skoot is lightweight and yet of a very rugged construction for everyday use."

Bayer, which has 120,000 employees worldwide and records a £2bn net income, has major businesses in polymers, health care, agriculture and speciality chemicals.

It will be a main player in the production of Skoot, whose wheels stay in line when folded, turning into a slim manageable case which can be taken on any public transport.

The bike chain remains hidden when it is folded and unfolded so a user does not get oil on their clothes.

Bayer's plastics business marketing director Martin Sixsmith said it was exciting for Lustran to be picked for a new international product.

"It's strength, resistance and surface finish were all out to the test," he said.

For more information on the Skoot bike visit www.skoot.com