Cargo bikes are a great way to transport goods, your shopping and even cycle around town with your kids. But they’re no small investment, with many of the best cargo bikes costing at least a few grand.
This is something Argo Cargo Bikes wants to change with the new Argo Fly, a flat-pack conversion kit that it says will turn any bike into a cargo bike.
Scott Taylor, founder of Argo Cargo Bikes, based in Denver, Colorado, said: “We're part of a new wave in cycling that's taking inspiration from companies like Rad Power Bikes, who democratised electric bikes by shipping direct and making them accessible to everyday families.”
“We saw what they accomplished for e-bikes and asked: why can't cargo bikes work the same way?” added Taylor.
Approachable, affordable and accessible
Taylor introduced the Argo Fly concept to his newsletter subscribers and previous customers. Argo Cargo Bikes said it sold “hundreds of units” across the world before this public announcement and sale.
“We've proven that people who know what one is, want cargo bikes – they just need them to be approachable, affordable and accessible,” said Taylor. “The challenge is that you take a risk when you order a cargo bike without riding it first. With the Argo, we're not changing the size or fit of your bike. You already know that it fits – we just add massively what you can do with it.”
At $1,399 / £1,100, the Argo Fly uses standard components for easy repair and maintenance, with bolts you can pick up from hardware shops, alongside standard bearings and components that are serviceable by bike shops.
“When something needs repairing, people shouldn't have to wait weeks for proprietary parts or pay premium prices. You should be able to walk into your neighbourhood shop and get back on the road,” said Taylor.
New and improved design
This isn’t the first time Argo has released a cargo bike conversion kit. There was a previous version simply called the Argo Cargo Bike Kit. But the company says the Fly improves the previous design based on user feedback.
The Fly now has a 6061 aluminium frame which it says offers “enhanced durability against weather and salt while improving control through increased stiffness.”
Protection against the elements is also aided by a new plywood front box which is waterproof, paint free and also more sustainable.
The Fly also has a hydraulic brake system, which Argo says is compatible with electric bikes for “enhanced stopping power”.
It now works with a wider variety of forks, including the carbon forks, making it compatible with many of the best road bikes and best gravel bikes.
A motorcycle-style kickstand will hold your bike and its load upright.
Argo says its mission is really about cultural change, not just selling products, and it wants to normalise cargo bikes in the way a certain children’s bike has become commonplace.
“Remember when balance bikes were niche?” said Taylor. “Now every parent knows about them, that's our vision for cargo bikes – moving from specialist cycling equipment to everyday family transportation.”
