If I lived in a city that gives priority to bike and e-bike commuters, I would probably rethink my decision not to learn how to ride a bike. Unfortunately, I don’t. But if you do live in one, then you have several options for regular bikes and e-bikes available. If you’re someone who hauls kids, groceries, or boxes around town, a cargo ebike is an excellent solution. But do you really want to own a separate, smaller, more nimble ebike for everyday commuting? With the Urbanisto, you don’t have to choose. This innovative, transformable bike lets you enjoy both worlds with a single purchase.
Hailing from a Dutch startup of the same name, the Urbanisto recently received an award at Eurobike 2025 in Frankfurt, Germany—an impressive nod to its design and versatility. When you’re not carrying anything extra, it functions as a conventional ebike, perfect for city commuting. When your plans (or your cargo) change, the bike quickly converts into one of two cargo ebike options.
Designer: Urbanisto
Switching between modes couldn’t be easier. The transformation is performed entirely by hand, takes just seconds, and requires no tools. To switch to “cargo bike” mode, simply loosen a wing nut on the side of the head tube and release a coupler in the front brake hose. This allows you to remove the fork and front wheel. Next, insert the connector from the cargo module into the head tube and push it down until it clicks securely. Reconnect the brake hose, and you’re ready to go.
If you’re using it in cargo mode, there are two options. The closed-sided module is meant for transporting up to two small children, seated side by side for extra safety and comfort. The open-sided module, meanwhile, can be used when you’re transporting larger cargo items like boxes, groceries, and deliveries. It gives you the flexibility to carry just about anything. Both modules are equipped with a Suntour Mobie34 CGO-Boost suspension fork, offering 100 mm of coil-sprung travel. This setup helps smooth out bumps and rough city roads, ensuring a comfortable ride even when fully loaded.
The bike is powered by a Bosch Smart System Performance Line motor, delivering 75Nm of torque for strong, smooth acceleration. Depending on your battery choice (400Wh to 725Wh), you’ll get up to 110 km of range as a standard ebike. With either cargo module attached, expect a battery range of about 80 km (roughly 50 miles), which is still more than enough for most daily needs. Safety is top-notch, with Magura MT5 hydraulic brakes and Schwalbe Big Ben+ tires for reliable stopping and grip in all conditions.
Urbanisto was born from the frustration of owning too many specialized bikes. Founder Benjamin Declercq, a mechanical engineer, wanted one bike to do it all: commute, carry family, and handle heavy loads. The result is a truly modular, award-winning ebike that adapts to your changing needs and helps clear the garage. It is available for pre-order and test rides in the Netherlands. If you’re a commuter, a parent, or simply want more from your bike, Urbanisto delivers flexibility, practicality, and fun in one smart package.
