Bicycles

Cylo – the ultimate urban bicycle?

Cylo – the ultimate urban bicycle?
The creators of Cylo see it as the ultimate urban bicycle, as it brings together a range of different innovations
The creators of Cylo see it as the ultimate urban bicycle, as it brings together a range of different innovations
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The Cylo range of urban bicycles is built purely for those living in big cities
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The Cylo range of urban bicycles is built purely for those living in big cities
Aluminium frames mean the Cylo bikes are light enough to carry as and when necessary
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Aluminium frames mean the Cylo bikes are light enough to carry as and when necessary
The creators of Cylo see it as the ultimate urban bicycle, as it brings together a range of different innovations
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The creators of Cylo see it as the ultimate urban bicycle, as it brings together a range of different innovations
Cylo comes in a range of different models, colors, and sizes
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Cylo comes in a range of different models, colors, and sizes
Cylo has a unique shape that makes it stand out from the competition
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Cylo has a unique shape that makes it stand out from the competition
The biggest innovation sported by Cylo may just be the dynamo-powered brake light
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The biggest innovation sported by Cylo may just be the dynamo-powered brake light
Cylo features front and rear LED lights powered by a dynamo
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Cylo features front and rear LED lights powered by a dynamo
Cylo brings together a range of different innovations into one lorious whole
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Cylo brings together a range of different innovations into one lorious whole
Cylo has a unique shape that makes it stand out from the competition
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Cylo has a unique shape that makes it stand out from the competition
Cylo comes in a range of different models, colors, and sizes
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Cylo comes in a range of different models, colors, and sizes
View gallery - 10 images

Cylo is a brand of urban bicycle that's completely new to the market, and its creators are so confident they've brought together the right mix of ingredients that they're claiming Cylo is the "ultimate urban bicycle."

Cylo is the brainchild of two brothers who grew up in France but who now reside in Portland, Oregon. This explains the origin of the name, Cylo paying tribute to the English word "bicycle" and the French word "velo." None of the innovations sported by the Cylo range are particularly new or unique, but bringing them together into individual machines is where Cylo aims to prove its worth.

The Cylo bicycles feature an aluminum frame, chosen for its strength-to-weight ratio, and a carbon belt chain, which promises performance and reliability. They also feature front and rear LED lights built into the frames, which provide 205 lumens of illumination. There is also a brake light, triggered by an accelerometer, that's designed to prevent Cylo users being hit from behind. The lights are powered by a dynamo, meaning the more you ride the more they shine. They also keep operating for five minutes after you stop pedaling.

Cylo features front and rear LED lights powered by a dynamo
Cylo features front and rear LED lights powered by a dynamo

Three models of Cylo are being made, with prices ranging from US$1850 to $3150. The entry-level model will be single-speed, while the high-end model will have an 11-speed gearing system. There are other differences between the models but all feature aluminum frames and carbon belt chains. The model pictured is the Cylo One, which currently has a price tag of $2199.

Cylo is currently in pre-production, with the parts and manufacturing still being finalized. The first batch of 50 bicycles is due to go on sale in the coming months, with interested parties currently being asked to add their name to the waiting list. This initial batch will only be sold in the US, with no word yet on shipping internationally. Future innovations being eyed include a front-mounting rack, and an e-bike version.

Source: Cylo

View gallery - 10 images
14 comments
14 comments
BZD
Calling it "Ultimate" is a rather bold statement and while I think it's a nice package apart from the silly frame there isn't really anything unique.
Going with a non-diamond type frame is actually silly as anything requires more material to archive the same rigidity, so there needs to be a purpose to do so and looks it not a reason since with bikes the purity lies in function over form. The Cylo could have been lighter had they not tried to be clever.
I think one can find a better bike for a lot less money if going with one of those classic bike makers like Kildemose or if original looks is top of the list the Biomega could be a good choice.
TheSplund
Hmm, the frame makes it look like the first bike in an urban bike-rack that's going to attract the attention of a thief/vandal. The simple drive-train, braking, and what appears to be a very neat rear rack mount (why wasn't that shown? perhaps it's just not cool enough) are a definite plus for the average city cyclist but it's ultimately a style bike. I wonder why not have the brake lights linked to the brakes and not an accelerometer?
MikeF
A "carbon belt chain"? A bit of an oxymoron there. That's a Gates belt which clearly doesn't have links.
A sensible looking bike (though I'm not convinced by the frame either) but nothing particularly new there.
Larry English
this isn;t a. solving a new problem or b. solving an old problem a better way plus it is expensive!!
wle
William Volk
This pales in comparison to a Brompton, for urban use.
Seriously.
cottlecreek
looks like a photoshop special to me! where are all those messy stays that, for instance, keep the rear fender from rolling up on itself and causing a crash, and the weight bearing member for the rack. that said, the projected price makes the bike unobtanium for most. a very functional and light fixed gear bike can be put together for next to nothing by a clever scrounger, or bought for $500-1k. so one is paying here for posing. well, maybe that is the business plan. count me out.
sk8dad
The "ultimate" expression of poorly researched mediocre design exercise perhaps?
telocity
Novara Arkham Bike - 2014 from REI (first bike that came up in google) $849.00 aluminum frame gates belt 3 speed rear disc brakes fenders rear rack leather seat and the $1000+ you save can buy youself a nifty light, clothing and electric motor if you want ....and possibly a cheap trailer?..
So the cylo is the ultimate money pit?
Joseph Boe
I'm sorry but, was that it? Aluminum frame, brakee light led lights and a carbon belt are the "right combination" ?!?!?
This combination isn't unique and the ridiculous hipster frame make this overpriced bit of silliness well, ridiculous.
I predict total failure...
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