A startup from Copenhagen is looking to crowdfund kit that allows a cyclist to transform an ordinary bike into an electric cargo bike. The developers of the CargoDrive – a combined rack and electric motor that fits to the front forks – are looking to raise £400,000 to start production.
In the Indiegogo campaign video, CargoDrive founder and frame builder Sam explains that he hit upon the idea after being asked to make bicycle forks with an integrated rack and electric motor.
The CargoDrive is not dissimilar, comprising a rack, 250W motor, disc brake, kick stand and lights which are designed to replace a bike's front wheel and front brake.
The CargoDrive will fit all 26" and 28"/700C bikes with 100mm axle width and open dropouts, although it is not recommended for vintage racers and shouldn’t be installed in carbon fibre forks.
As the front wheel’s smaller than the one it replaces, an adaptor is included to keep the front end of the bike the same height.
The whole package weighs about 13kg.
Installation is pretty straightforward. You remove your bike’s front wheel; secure the CargoDrive by tightening the universal clamps; connect the loading surface, display and other cables; and then you’re ready to go.
It comes with a 375Wh battery and is said to be good for loads up to about 30kg.
It’s currently priced at £860 via the Indiegogo campaign – although that’s a discount for early backers. The normal price is down as around £1,375.
