I had a chance to check out the Gazelle Cabby at the Living Smart festival last weekend. It’s a variation of the Dutch “bakfiets” cargo or box-bike, fitted with hub gears and a collapsible cargo “soft box” with child seating. It is non-electric assist (there’s an idea !) and has a linkage from the handlebar fitted steering column to the steering head for the small front wheel. The great advantage of this arrangement is the low centre of gravity and high capacity for the load. Also the rider can keep an eye on the kids and/or cargo.
I thought it would feel strange to ride but I acclimatised to it in a few seconds and found it both enjoyable and easy to balance during a short ride unloaded. It also has a very wide and stable centre stand for parking.
The little front wheel looks strangely detached, and I found myself watching it in fascination as I rode along.
With a load, the Cabby feels a bit like riding a tandem with its long wheelbase and the feel of the extra weight. If you live near Newcastle, this bike is normally displayed at Civic Bikes in Hunter Street West for those who would like a closer look.