Here’s the prototype Joe Bike, our unique multipurpose utility bike, with the first of several configurations shown. The Joe Bike combines the largest payload area of any ”longjohn” bike with the shortest wheelbase, so you get both an incredibly easy, nimble riding experience and extraordinary versatility.  Depending on what you want to carry, from kids to cargo to kayaks, you can switch from the box to any of four attachments in seconds, using nothing more than a single allen key.

Upcoming configurations (available in May) include tandem-style seating for two kids or one adult, along with a cargo area; and a unique grocery-getter with a very large, very secure capacity. Both will be available in May.

The photos show the prototype; the finished model will have a four-point kickstand, front disc brake, and other improvements. The basic frameset is made in China and is also the platform for our conventional Boxbike. For the Joe Bike, we modify the frame to accept the rack and carrier systems designed and built in Portland by Stites Design, and complete the bike with a variety of internal or external drivetrains.

The three-configuration, 24-speed Joe Bike is $2699, including the upper and lower platforms, rear deck, and the box, along with features such as a Shimano low-resistance dynamo with a superbright front lamp, rear light that also incorporates an automatic brake light, full fenders, full four-point kickstand (to replace the one shown in the photos), rear-wheel lock, mirror, and bell. You can also choose your own frame and rack colors at no extra cost. Stay tuned for more information, photos, and video clips of the bike doing what it was made to do.

And congratulations to OHSU research scientist Alex Stevens, who won the first Joe Bike at the Bicycle Transportation Alliance’s annual Alice Awards and Auction. Alex rode the prototype home that night all the way to Hillsdale, and described the ride as “a blast”.