Cargo Bikes

@Carabo I did ask about that at I initially wanted the step through version but Douze advised me take the one with the top tube based on average use.

I don't know the technical reasons...

We (Velo Domestique) recently finished building this Omnium Cargo for our coffee suppliers South Coast Roast.

Is there finally a reasonably wide tyre for that obsolete wheel size Jumbo insists on using? I have no idea why he doesn't spec them with a 406 wheel and allow the whole range of Schwalbe Marathon tyres to be used.

My Omnium's now done in excess of 25 000km and is still going strong. Good bikes.

We went with the 37-451 Schwalbe Shredda, which is a reasonable width, similar to the 35x700c on the rear, it is a pain as its not a particularly puncture proof tyre. The main issue we had was the wheel itself, in the end we laced Miche MX40 hubs to Halo's BMX racing rims (which are the only 451 32h rims available in the UK as far as I'm aware) we bought a few spares so if anyone needs any, drop us a message.

Glad to see they are so tried and tested.

Has anyone got advice on cargo bike insurance?

Mainly for theft & collision.

Ideally reasonbly priced - ie not more expensive than motorbike insurance

Why would you need different insurance to normal bike insurance? Should be cheaper than motorbike insurance unless your cargo bike cost more than your motorbike...

The cargo bike is worth more than average used motorbikes.
My motorbike insurance is sub £100 per year fully comp but not for business.
The cargo bike will be used for business.

I had a look online with ETA Cycle Insurance
Storage Location N16
Insured Assets £4,151.00
Monthly price from £39.50
Annual price from £474.01

As feared, the prices are MENTAL

My orange Omniuomnomnom.

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Don't waste your time with that stupid wheel. It's all about using a bmx rim, tyres around 1.9.

I'm looking for a cargo bike, something like those nice Omniums, but need it to have a step through frame or very low stand-over height so that both I (6'3") and my wife (5'4") can use it comfortably just by changing the seat height to suit us.
Would anyone know what my options are please?

bullitt

Yeah I do like them.
Mrs Gridds is worried about them being too long/big/difficult when not actually riding it though.
She may be able to be persuaded otherwise.
Is there nothing else worth a look?

The classic bakfiets has a step-through frame; I've got a Workcycles KR8 that works for me (6'5") and the OH (5'8"). I don't feel it needs the extra torsional stiffness of a top tube; if you're loaded up enough to make it feel flexy, you're not going to be throwing it around anyhow.

Though on re-reading your post long John style bikes are, well, long and a bit unwieldy for storage. What's your use case? If it's general stuff-hauling something like the Bike Friday Haul-a-day might work - folding and with a step-through frame; it got a rave review from the Lovely Bicycle blog.

The french Douze exists with a step-through frame.
They say it is as stiff as the classic frame.

3 versions : 40 cm, 60 cm and 80 cm (larger box).

I tried one today with a friend. Compared to my Bullit, it was slightly less sporty (still it is not a bakfiets) and a bit less stiff (again, not a soft noodle !). Corners waaaaaay better thanks to the cable direction.
A great ride. Expensive, but really great !

Thanks aleholi.

Yeah kind of what I'm looking for. One like on the right here:

Chumly's briefcase is definitely bouncing out of there and getting squashed by a bus at the first pothole.

@M_V I own a Douze (long base) and I was surprised with the load stability, even on potholes / speed bumps.
I believe it is linked to the lower centre of gravity.
His briefcase is going nowhere. But you can always get a velcro strap to keep it in place...

@gridds Happy for you to borrow my Douze for a day or so if you want to try before you buy.

A jolly decent offer thank you, Vince. Where are you based?
Does yours have rod or cable steering?

Hello gridds,

I am moving to Scotland so selling my remaining stock of bikes. I run http://www.thelondoncargobikecompany.co.uk/

And have 2 Civia Halsted bikes available. See:

http://civiacycles.com/bikes/halsted/

They are advertised on London Green Cycles site here:

http://www.londongreencycles.co.uk/shop/second-hand/civia-halsted/

I feel it may suit you and your wifes needs well and I can do you a deal as I need to sell them before I move north!

Let me know and I can meet you for test ride in Kent or London.

I am in Stoke Newington.

And the bike is cable steering, with a NuVinci 380 rear hub and MPF electric assistance.

Thanks alexis.

I have been discussing with Mrs gridds. We have decided we definitely want a genuine step through frame and a full cargo type like the Douze as it will be for transporting the kid some of the time. We also can't buy until my house move goes through which won't be until January in the New Year (hopefully)...

I appreciate all the kind offers and suggestions from everyone, thank you all.

Make sure to check out workcycles too, no cable steering but built like a workhorse.

You can even take the missus on the rear carrier if the box is full (or vice versa)!

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