The Urban Arrow

[jmygann]

Nice crank drive ...

http://www.urbanarrow.com/?ref=nf

 

[dogman dan]

Very interesting. But of course I'll have to nit pick. Having a destroyed lower back myself, I notice immediately that the riders seat is positioned where the rear wheel will load the rider up on every bump. Having the riders ass halfway between the wheels would ride better, as it is on most regular longtails.

Of course, for a younger rider, it would not matter any. I like the rain cover for the kids when it's drippy out.

 

[jmygann]

I would like to know more about the motor /drive ??

 

[dogman dan]

Yeah, it appears to have a tiny hubmotor on the front along with the disk brake. But in the slide show you see a nice looking drive at the crank.

 

[Miles]

See also: http://bicycledesign.net/2010/08/urban-arrow-a-new-bakfiets-design/

 

[MitchJi]

Hi,

I would like to know more about the motor /drive ??

Maybe Miles can figure out what their drive components are:

We re-invented the transport bike: a fresh design, composed out of light, safe and comfortable materials, equipped with
a powerful German made electric pedal assist and built with A-branded components.

We chose a mid engine; powering the cranks. This way the power is on the correct wheel (rear) and the bike has a closed chain case with maintenance free reliable hub gear. An additional advantage is that the motor also profits from the gears, like in a car. Put it in first gear and you can ride up any hill effortlessly. I am very pleased with our engine choice; this thing is simply a silent beast.

The best possible choice , motor driving through a hub gear.

 

[John in CR]

This bike is similar to the cargo bike I have in mind, though I plan to go narrower and more aero with the cargo box, so the kids will be in line straddling a central bench that is also the battery box. The only significant issue I see is lack of weight on that front wheel with no load, which is a major traction in slick conditions. I'm going to combat that with a heavy front hubmotor run at moderate current, along with plenty of batteries loaded toward the front. A mid drive at the rear will be essential, so steep hills aren't an issue, even with a load.

I'd like to get the pilot a lot lower to tuck behind the windscreen of the top in bad weather, but my mock-ups are telling me I'll run out of pedal room without going to extreme length. I may have to go tadpole trike to resolve my issues, but if so, I'll want a leaner, which is a big complication and will require a 3rd motor. I'm sure it will require a motorcycle classification in most jurisdictions, but with SUV type capability that would be worth it.

John

 

[LockH]

Well, well... `Bout six years later and (Dutch) company still appears to be afloat:
http://www.urbanarrow.com/

Still only ONE dealer/representative in North America. In Portland, OR... of course:
http://clevercycles.com/