The French company Calendar Bikes has unveiled Longtail Max cargo electric bike that is more than your typical utility two-wheeler. The fat-tire Longtail ebike can fold via a unique mechanism and has a glow-in-the-dark frame.
When unfolded, the Max measures 196 x 117 x 60 cm (77.1 x 46 x 23.6 in); the configuration includes both a saddle for the rider in the middle and a passenger/cargo area in the rear. And when folded upright, it measures 60 x 124 x 89 cm (23.6 x 48.8 x 35 in). The bike weighs 29.5 kg (65 lb.) with the battery included and can handle the maximum payload of up to 200 kg (440 lb).
The unique folding mechanism deployed in the Longtail max cargo ebike involves the folding of its handlebars down and the front end of its frame is folded to one side, so it sits parallel to the rear end. The whole bike is then flipped upside-down to be rolled on a set of caster wheels built into the rear corners of the bike’s side rails. The entire folding process takes only a few seconds and reduces the bike’s length by approximately 50%. The cargo bike can be transported with one hand, thanks to its integrated wheels.
The Longtail Max cargo ebike features a 6061 aluminum frame with photo-luminescent paint, 20-inch wheels, foldable pedals and handlebar, a Shimano 7-speed rear derailleur, Magura eSTOP hydraulic disc brakes, plus front and rear mudguards. The Longtail Max comes equipped with a 250W rear hub motor, which is in turn powered by a seat-tube-mounted 36V/10.4-Ah/360-Wh lithium battery. The battery claims to offer an autonomy of up to 50 km (31 miles) on a charge.
Available in two variants, Max and Max Plus, the electric bike can be ordered via the company website and is priced at €3,990 ($4,530). The fancier Longtail Max Plus is priced at €4,590 (about $5,210).
