Need a bike that can lug around heavy or bulky stuff but doesn’t hog your storage space? Meet the Oklö Simplix, a clever French take on the longtail cargo bike that shrinks down to fit small apartments or tight garages. It’s got all the hauling power you need, wrapped in a streamlined, low-slung frame that still turns heads.
Launched by Annecy-based Oklö after their popular Evo model, the Simplix brings big cargo-bike benefits—like a reinforced rear rack and generous load limits—but in a mini package thanks to its pint-sized wheels. In this friendly guide, we’ll dive into why tiny wheels matter, how this bike stays tough and customizable, which versions you can pick from, and where to get yours.
Why Tiny Wheels Make a Big Difference
At first glance, small wheels might seem like a drawback—they can be less stable at high speeds and feel twitchier on uneven roads. But Oklö flipped that script by turning those weaknesses into strengths. With 20-inch wheels front and back, the Simplix sits lower to the ground, giving riders of all heights—from just 4’9″ to 6’3″—a comfortable stance. You won’t feel like you’re trying to mount a giraffe, and controlling the bike at stops or sharp turns is a breeze.
There’s more: smaller wheels mean you can shrink the entire frame. This translates to less steel, and ultimately a lighter ride. In its electric Eco trim, the Simplix weighs in at a sprightly 46 pounds—over 40% lighter than many bulkier cargo e-bikes on the market. And if you opt for the purely mechanical version, you’ll find yourself pushing just 39 pounds around, making apartment maneuvers and storage a walk in the park.
Built to Last: Modularity and Strength
Oklö didn’t just make things small—they made them tough. The Simplix sports a Cro-Mo steel frame, chosen for its legendary toughness and easy repairability. If you ever ding the frame or need to replace a bent tube, a skilled welder can have you back on the road with minimal fuss. Plus, the chassis can handle up to 33 pounds up front and an astonishing 110 pounds on the rear deck.
To help you adapt the bike to your exact needs, Oklö incorporated the Klickfix mounting system. Want a wicker basket for your pup? Done. Need a child seat or extra panniers? No problem. The front luggage rack even houses integrated white LEDs underneath, while the rear gets a red lamp, keeping you street-legal and visible in city traffic.
Pick Your Ride: Three Distinct Versions
Oklö offers the Simplix in three flavors. First up is the Simplix Meca, the entry-level mechanical model priced at €1,190 (or €890 during launch promos). It swaps in simple V-brake calipers and skips the motor, making it a budget-friendly choice for flat-terrain enthusiasts who don’t mind a workout. Just remember to anticipate your stops—the V-brakes aren’t as powerful as modern discs, especially when you’re loaded down.
Next, the Simplix Eco steps up the game for €1,990 (or €1,690 early-bird). It adds a 750W Virvolt hub motor paired with a 250Wh battery, giving you about 18 miles of assisted range. You still get V-brakes here, but the extra torque and a lighter overall chassis more than make up for it when climbing hills or tackling headwinds.
Finally, the top-tier Simplix Plus, at €2,290 (or €1,990 with the launch offer), packs the same 750W rear hub motor but rocks a beefier 350Wh battery for up to 31 miles of riding between charges. It also upgrades you to hydraulic disc brakes for crisp stopping power, and bumps your total payload capacity to 308 pounds, so you can haul passengers, groceries, or gear with confidence.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving the cargo-hauling flexibility of a longtail bike but don’t have space for a 80-pound behemoth, the Oklö Simplix is a breath of fresh Alpine air. Its clever use of small wheels and a compact frame gives you a nimble ride, while the steel Cro-Mo chassis and Klickfix accessories keep things adaptable and durable.
Preorders are open now with a €100 refundable deposit, and deliveries kick off in September—just in time to swap your car for two wheels once the holidays wrap up. Whether you’re shipping dog treats, groceries, or weekend gear, the Simplix proves that power and practicality don’t have to come at the expense of space or style.
