We’ve seen a number of different ways to add cargo capabilities to a regular bike, but not like this. Convoy is an impressive new cargo trailer that is launching this winter. But just calling it a trailer isn’t really fair since Convoy can also transform your bike into an ebike and steers itself.
The product of a design team that includes a former engineer from Dyson, Convoy seems like a brilliant solution to carrying more by bike while also addressing the daily needs of storage. Not to mention those times you want to ride a regular bike instead of your cargo bike.
At its core, Convoy is a bike trailer, but not like any that you’re used to. Utilizing a rigid mount to the rear axle, the trailer can be installed and removed easily so you can use it when you need to carry cargo, and leave it when you don’t.
The ability to remove the trailer obviously makes for easier storage, but it can also be left on the bike and flipped up on its end to minimize the space needed for bike parking.
After the axle attachments are initially fitted, the connection of the trailer to the bike is tool-free. Since the early prototype shown on the brand’s website, it appears that the connection and release mechanism has shrunk substantially, now with just a small lever to release.
While most trailers have a flexible mount to allow the trailer to move while turning, the Convoy goes about things differently. To make the whole ride more maneuverable, the Convoy steers itself! To accomplish that, there is a sensor that will mount to the bike’s steerer, and when it detects the handlebar turning, the rear wheel turns in the opposite direction to make it handle more like a regular bike.
The functional prototype shown at Eurobike included a wired sensor, but we’re told that the production version will be wireless.
eBike Assist or Not
Carrying cargo on a bike can be hard work, so the Convoy will have the option of adding a hub motor to assist a normal bike. If you plan on using the Convoy for an ebike, you won’t want the extra assistance, so there will be a non-assisted version as well. The non-assisted version will still have rear wheel steering, though.
Convoy will also have built-in lighting to increase visibility.
Bike Fit & Cargo Capacity Specs
We’re told that the production Convoy frame should weigh in around 12kg (26.46 lb). It will be compatible with bikes that have wheel sizes from 26″ to 29″, and up to a 2.5″ rear tire. Three different axle mounts will be included to fit QR to Boost 148mm thru axles.
According to Convoy, the trailer will have a 50kg (110lb) cargo capacity, or two kids up to 6 or 7 years old. The Convoy rack will be able to mount up to two kids’ seats, and there will be optional accessories like pannier mounting rails, and waterproof plastic ‘tubs’ that should make carrying loose cargo effortless.
A single charge is expected to provide up to 30km of assistance for the ebike version, and Convoy is promising an app that will allow you to track battery levels, CO2 stats, and use the anti-theft digital lock.
A preorder will be available soon with Convoy offering a limited number of initial trailers called the Origin 500. Pricing is expected to be around $2200, with the trailers first launching in Europe over the winter and in the U.S. next May or June.
You can sign up at the link below to get notified when the preorder is open.
