GoCycle has always held a special position with its compact e-bikes: compared to other brands, the British company focuses particularly strongly on an independent design with unusual technical solutions and numerous specially developed components. These include, for example, the 5-spoke wheels, which are mounted on the side, or the integration of the electric drive, which is completely encapsulated and also has a gearshift. Unsurprisingly, all cables and lines are routed internally on these bikes, which also contributes to the clean look of the bikes. In addition, GoCycle bikes are always foldable to make them as easy as possible to transport or store.
All of these features can now also be found in the two new Gocycle CX+ and Gocycle CXi bikes, which are compact cargo bikes designed to appeal to families in particular. They also come in the typical Gocycle look, but have a significantly longer wheelbase at the rear – making them longtail cargo bikes. This means that the actual area for transporting loads, or for families transporting children, is located behind the saddle. This rear deck is compatible with MIK child seats and accessories, making it easy to attach and remove these parts with a click mechanism. A version in elegant cherry or teak wood will also be available as an option. Despite the rather delicate appearance, the bikes are approved for a total weight of 220 kg — which is remarkable, as the empty weight is said to be only 23 kg!
This low weight and the option of folding the bike in the middle also make it particularly easy to handle. The same applies to the folding handlebars and the easily removable seat post. This should make the bike as easy as possible to transport or stow away when not in use!
The drive of both bikes consists of the specially developed G4drive, a hub motor in the front wheel. In the rear wheel, on the other hand, a Shimano Nexus hub gear with 5 gears is installed, which is operated via a Gates belt. A very maintenance-free and clean solution in itself, which is also encapsulated and therefore optimally protected from the weather. The motor and gearshift are controlled completely electronically, which is also a GoCyle development. The company also relies on a torque sensor, which promises a particularly natural riding experience (more on this in this article). The capacity of the removable battery is 375 Wh, which is rather low for cargo bikes — but also contributes to the low weight.
Things get really futuristic on the handlebars, where the differences between the Gocycle CX+ and Gocycle CXi models become apparent:
- The CXi is equipped with integrated daytime running light handlebars, which are already familiar from other GoCyle bikes.
- The CX+ is equipped with the brand new, patent-pending Flofit handlebars, which are said to represent a quantum leap in terms of ergonomics and comfort.
The advantages of the unusually shaped Flofit handlebar lie in its flexible adaptability: it can be adjusted in reach, height and grip angle and offers several hand positions. Both an upright riding position and a sporty riding position should be possible. The handlebars also have an optional Quad-Lock attachment point and allow easy access to the brake settings for simplified maintenance of the hydraulic disc brakes. Incidentally, the small 20″ tires are from Schwalbe’s Super Moto X series and are quite wide at 60 mm, which should ensure a comfortable ride despite the lack of suspension.
The new model series is also versatile in terms of its color scheme, as GoCycle is offering six different color variants for pre-order. The price of the Gocycle CXi is expected to start at 6,999 euros. The CX+ version, equipped with the innovative new Flofit handlebars, will be available from 7,999 euros. Interested parties can make a fully refundable deposit of 499 euros to have the opportunity to be one of the world’s first owners of a Gocycle cargo bike for families. The first deliveries are expected from September 2024.