Why we developed a different cargo bike cover

Studio Vollebak

You probably opened this page via the QR code attached to your cargo bike cover.

At Studio Vollebak we develop accessories specifically for modern cargo bikes. We look not only at appearance, but mainly at how products behave in real conditions: outdoors, in rain, wind and over longer periods of time.

While researching existing cargo bike covers we noticed something: most covers mainly protect from above, while wear and dirt on cargo bikes also comes from below. Modern cargo bikes are longer, taller and equipped with wider handlebars and accessories. Many covers are still based on older bike formats, leaving the underside open and allowing splashing water, dirt and winter road salt to still reach vulnerable parts. Spokes, nipples and moving components therefore remain exposed to conditions a cover is actually meant to prevent.

That insight became the starting point for developing our cover. Instead of choosing a universal size we measured and analyzed several popular cargo bike models. Not only the length, but also handlebar height, box shape and space for accessories were included. This was followed by an extensive prototyping phase in which the fit was repeatedly adjusted. The goal was not that the cover roughly fits, but that it truly encloses the bike, also around the wheels and under the box.

This way it blocks not only rain from above, but also water and dirt splashing up from the road surface. Especially in wet periods and during winter this makes a noticeable difference in protection.

For the material we chose 300D polyester with coating. This fabric is more abrasion resistant than commonly used lighter materials and keeps its shape better during long term outdoor use. The seams are taped so water cannot enter through stitching holes and the fabric is UV resistant to reduce aging and discoloration. The aim was not only waterproofness at purchase, but protection that lasts over time.

A fully sealed cover can cause condensation, therefore ventilation openings are integrated that allow moisture to escape while rain stays out. This keeps the bike drier even during longer periods of standing still and reduces stress on metal parts caused by trapped moisture.

Besides functionality the street appearance also matters. Under a cover there is often a valuable bike and large visible logos we simply never find attractive, therefore a fully black exterior without visible branding was chosen, with only a small label on the inside. The cover protects the bike without drawing attention.

The fit is designed for modern long cargo bikes including Urban Arrow Family, Urban Arrow FamilyNext, Lovens Explorer, Lovens Explorer 2, Dolly Joy and comparable models. Because of the length and adjustable underside it also fits many other current cargo bikes.

Let the cover dry after use before folding it and rinse accumulated dirt or salt off with water. This helps keep the coating and material in good condition for as long as possible.

This cover was developed from analyzing real usage conditions, with the goal of protecting cargo bikes as completely and as long as possible against everyday outdoor influences.

Thank you for choosing Studio Vollebak.