With more and more businesses opting for an electric option for last-mile delivery, could there be interest in Ikea-style, self-build electric cargo bikes? That’s what Bamboo Bicycle Club is betting on, with their new, “flat-packable, bamboo, build-your-own e-cargo bike.”
Bamboo Bicycle Club - not to be confused with the similarly named band - manufacture bamboo framed bicycles in an effort to make bikes more accessible and affordable. In particular, they hope that this e-cargo flat pack bike will, “avoid expensive labour costs,” and, “fill a gap in the urban delivery market.”
This isn't the first e-cargo bamboo bike. A Professor from Kansas University designed a bamboo e-cargo bike to aid in the fight against Nepal's air polution. However, it is the first flat pack version (that we know of). Let’s take a look at the bike in question.
Build and specs
Bamboo Bicycle Club has gone with a trike design with two wheels at the rear and one at the front. The frame is constructed of Guadua bamboo, recycled aluminium, and flax, which they claim allows a load capacity of 250kg.
If size is a concern, you’ll be pleased to know the e-trike fits inside standard width cycle lanes, as it is 1m in width and 2.5m in length. If riders don’t fancy getting wet then there is protective panelling and a roof, leaving only the sides exposed.
Maintenance is also minimal thanks to the hub gearing system, and you’ll also find an unspecified mid-drive motor equipped. The entire design is engineered around adaptability, so businesses can buy the core chassis and then customise the storage options depending on their particular needs.
If interested, buyers can order a bespoke cargo bike through Bamboo Bicycle Club’s website, and then assemble it themselves using online tutorials and/or workshops.