Lasta

Existing solutions for carrying items on bicycles, such as panniers, baskets, or cargo bikes, often fall short of meeting the needs of everyday users. These options can be overly specialized, bulky, or awkward to use, making them less appealing for casual cyclists or those looking for an all-around solution. A bike design that bridges the gap between utility and everyday usability is needed.

This project investigates how a utility bike can better support everyday urban transport while remaining easy to ride and integrate into existing infrastructure. The work began with user research focusing on how individuals carry items by bike – considering volume, weight, frequency, and compatibility with standard racks and storage solutions. 

Insights from this research guided the development of multiple design directions. Through sketching, mock-ups, and renderings, these concepts were evaluated and refined with attention to ergonomics, proportions, and real-world practicality. The most promising direction was developed into a full-scale prototype.

The result is a compact utility bike constructed from oversized 63mm steel tubing and aluminum components, combining structural robustness with visual lightness. A bead-blasted matte steel frame paired with brushed aluminum details, finished in a near-gray light blue, gives the design a subtle yet distinct presence. With integrated cargo features and urban adaptability, the bike aims to offer a seamless blend of functionality, simplicity, and everyday elegance.