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Reviving a Modular Cargo Bike Design from the 1930s

The Cyclauto is efficient and flexible

By Rain Noe - May 12

in Bikes

Your average cargo bike typically has a long frame divided into two areas: One for the cargo, and one for the rider. The rider is positioned just forward of the rear wheel, with a chain delivering power from the pedals to that rear wheel.

French mobility company Cyclauto has gone through the history books to revive an alternate design from the 1930s.

This design, originally by French industrialist Auguste Reymond, places the rider directly above the front wheel. They pedal this wheel directly; there's no chain, reducing maintenance needs. A three-speed gearbox in the hub makes starting easier.

The cargo-carrying part, in Cyclauto's modern rendition, is detachable, recalling a semi-trailer. This means a wide variety of trailer styles can be fitted to the drive unit, creating a modular system that can handle a wide variety of user needs. The Cyclauto can be configured to move cargo, people or even commercial fixtures (think food cart).

An additional benefit to the two-piece frame is that the bike can be broken down for transport, allowing the user "to load it into a trunk for easy transport from point A to point B."

Lastly, the company says the shorter wheelbase of their arrangement provides a tighter turning radius, making the bike easier to maneuver in urban environments.

The Cyclauto has been making the rounds at bike shows, but the company has yet to reveal production dates.

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Toby B

an hour ago

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It's interesting, but hard for me to get a sense of what the riding position would be like, it looks like you can't lean forward to use your back/glutes like you can on drop bars - and speaking of bars, the steering wheel is cute, but silly, no leverage, and you can't mount bells / lights / phone holders etc. as easily.

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Jason Scala

an hour ago

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How do the rear brakes work? I can't figure out the mechanism between the seat post and trailer. Also, how bad do you want to see someone ride the front wheel by itself!

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