Way back in 2016, we featured a nifty Kickstarter for a kit that converted a regular bicycle into a front-loader cargo hauler in double quick time. Now the company has announced an updated version called the Argo Fy.
So the idea is fairly simple. If you have a spare bike but would rather go Dutch and have a "cargo-hauling, kid-toting, grocery-getting, fun-having machine," you don't need to spend multiple thousands on a dedicated build – you can just buy an Argo kit.
Based on customer feedback from the Lift kit days and beyond, the Colorado-based company has now developed the Argo Fy – or Mark II – of its novel cargo kit.
The chromoly of the original has been replaced by a "beefed up" 6061 aluminum frame for improved all-weather durability. And the company reports compatibility with more donor bike styles, including commuter models, fatbikes, rear-hub ebikes and step-through frames.
The brake at the 20-inch front wheel wrapped in Kenda rubber is an ebike-ready hydraulic disc flavor. A motorcycle-like dual-leg center stand helps with parked stability. And the bucket is fashioned using waterproof phenolic ply with a grippy inner surface that just happens to look good too.
The Fy comes flatpacked, but almost 90% assembled so you shouldn't spend too long building before your first ride. Conversion seems straightforward enough too. First you'll need to assemble the front-loader frame. Then pop off the front wheel of your two-wheeler, and attach the forks to the front-loader's steering mechanism, tweaking for rake.
A patented BBLink attachment is mounted at the bottom bracket and this locks into an adjustable pipe that goes into the tubular support at the rear of the Fy's frame. The Argo's braking system is cabled to the existing front brake lever and adjusted and then you have a working cargo hauler.
Argo recommends that cargo doesn't exceed 150 lb (68 kg), or the bike may suffer handling issues. The package ships with two child safety harnesses to keep young passengers safe, and a rain canopy can be optioned in.
The Argo Fy carries a list price of US$1,399, but can currently be pre-ordered for $1,199. There are still a few design and production hurdles to overcome, but the company anticipates that orders will start to ship to customers in December.
Product page: Argo Fy
