How to Build a Cargo Cycle Truck

I was inspired by this bike which is much more beautiful than the one I built. I built the bike in Haiti, with a minimum number of tools and ingredients. I would have posted this a couple months ago, but was delayed because as I was taping the stencil on the frame, Haiti was struck by 7.3 magnitude earthquake. Costs for this bike were $25 for the bike, about $10 for steel, and $5 for welding rods. With the seat tube change the frame is 17'' tall, I'm 6'2'' and it's not uncomfortable to ride and a friend who is about 5'6'' took a 20 mile ride on it recently and fared okay. To see more or our projects go to www.annbekan.blogspot.com

Step 1 Buy a bike

Find an old 20-inch BMX bike.  I bought one on the street in Port Au Prince for $25 (I think I paid twice as much as it was worth). Try to find a bike that already has good brakes. My bike has a coaster brake in the back and cheap caliper brakes up front.

Comments

[bertus52x11]

 Nice concept! Would use a larger frame though!

[CrazyHowiesBikes]

@ bertus52x11 -- I like the idea of the smaller frame; it makes mounting/dismounting MUCH easier. I currently use an extra-large framed Raleigh MT 20 like it's a large parcel truck and I have a heck of a time getting on/off when it is fully loaded. I have to lean the bike and sometimes spill my cargo.

@depp.ben -- Have you thought about also raising the handlebars? From the pictures, I imagine you kinda leaned forward. Is this an issue? Other than that I LOVE this instructable!!!! I'm gonna start hacking my daughter's 20" bike as soon as she outgrows it! Thanks so much!!

[misiawisiawioo]

What is the maximum/optimal/useful load?
What are the difficulties when driving (shimmy...)?

[depp.ben]

The frame size isn't bad, with the seat tube extended like it is it's a 17'' frame. The handle bars can be adjusted forward. Ideally I would build different handlebars with more sweep.