Tokyobike from Japan is best known for its simply designed city bikes in a classic retro style, which deliberately avoid technical complexity and instead focus on functional, low-maintenance solutions. With the new Tokyobike Porter, the brand is now expanding its portfolio to include an electric model for the first time, positioning it as a compact e-cargo bike for everyday urban use—and at an unusually low price for the cargo bike segment!
An unusual combination of 16-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels is striking, as it is the small front wheel that allows the front platform to be positioned relatively low and directly above the wheel. This design is intended to support smooth and stable handling, especially when loaded, as the overall center of gravity is kept low. The loading area, which is firmly integrated into the frame, measures 540 × 400 mm and is designed for a payload of up to 50 kilograms, making it easy to handle shopping, bags, or smaller transport tasks in city traffic. Visually, Tokyobike remains true to its minimalist design language, but for the first time combines classic lines with more modern components such as disc brakes, which are intended to ensure contemporary deceleration (nevertheless, only mechanical brakes are used here instead of hydraulic ones). The frame itself is made of steel and is available in four color options.
The electric drive operates with a mid-drive motor, which is located centrally in the bottom bracket area and draws its energy from a removable frame battery with a capacity of 504 Wh. Tokyobike does not provide any information about the specific motor manufacturer, nor does it reveal any further technical specifications. The system is controlled via a compact control element on the handlebars, which blends inconspicuously into the minimalist cockpit. Gears are shifted via a Shimano 3-speed hub gear system, which is designed for everyday use and low maintenance, thus matching the overall pragmatic orientation of the bike.
With a stated weight of 22.5 kilograms, including the front carrier and battery, the Porter is surprisingly light for an electric cargo bike. Of course, its compact design also contributes to this, as with a total length of only 183 centimeters, the model is closer to classic city bikes than full-grown Long John transporters, which should be particularly noticeable when maneuvering and parking in dense urban environments.
In Japan, the Tokyobike Porter is available at a price of 297,000 yen, which currently corresponds to around 1,600 euros – a price level that seems almost like a counter-concept in the European cargo bike market. While electric cargo bikes in this country often start well above the 4,000 euro mark, the Porter shows that a compact, everyday-use concept can also be realized at a significantly lower price. This makes it all the more disappointing that the model is only available in Japan. Although Tokyobike is also represented in Germany, a glance at the local prices of other models offers little hope: if the Porter were to officially come to Europe at some point, the price would very likely be significantly higher. This is a shame, because such an affordable and charming cargo bike would certainly appeal to many interested buyers here too!
