Germany-based Apriko Bikes just launched a crowdfunding campaign for their new compact cargo bike conversion fork. Learn all about the Elephant Cargo Fork and how to get involved here…
Designed by Arian Bronner as part of his bachelor’s thesis at Bauhaus University Weimar in Germany, the Apriko Bikes Elephant Cargo Fork (ECF for short) addresses the idea that traditional full-sized cargo bikes aren’t ideal for densely populated areas.
The Apriko Bikes Elephant Cargo Fork is an aftermarket cargo fork that’s compatible with most bikes with standard 1 1/8″ head tubes. The massive 23 x 13″ (600 x 330mm) platform folds in half when not in use, making storage and squeezing through tight spaces easier. When folded away, the platform can accept panniers for additional utility. When flattened out in cargo mode, the platform is large enough to fit a 600 x 400mm Eurobox. Currently, Apriko Bikes is a one-person show, although the prototype fork was made by custom frame builder Dlouhy Cycles in Leipzig.
Elephant Cargo Fork Specs
- 600 x 330mm folding platform (fits 600 x 400mm Eurobox)
- Mount for two smaller panniers
- 1 1/8 inch mount
- 460mm axle to crown
- 74° head tube/platform angle
- 20 inch wheel (not included!), up to 54mm width
- 100mm quick-release axle
- IS disc brake mount
- Maximum 40mm down tube diameter
- Individual downtube TPU socket included
Arian recently launched a crowdfunding campaign to help bring these unique forks to the public. Since they’re handmade and the first round will only include 30 forks, they are quite expensive. He hopes to follow up with a larger and more affordable batch sometime down the road. The Elephant Cargo Forks cost between €960 and €1,100, depending on the finish, but you can also purchase a T-shirt or make a donation of any size to ensure the future of the project.
Find the crowdfunding campaign here and check out Apriko Bikes on Instagram @aprikobikes.
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