MODEL PLANS (under construction)
WEBSITE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION
MODELS PAGE
Plans and Directions
Simple Cycle models include Bicycles, Tricycles, Handcycles and Cargo cycles.
All models are DIY do-it-yourself owner-buildable.
Each set of Plans details how to build 1 model and its variations.
(Models evolve over generations; photos on these pages may show earlier versions.)
Complexity
We designate the complexity of builds as either ‘Simple’, ‘Simpler’ or ‘Simplest’. This rating is determined primarily by the type of transmission utilized.
◦ ‘Simple’ models require that the builder salvage or purchase a group of standard bike transmission parts – sprocket, chain, pedals, crankset and bearings – and have access to one or more specialized bike tools. This is the Bike-in-a-Bucket building approach, most likely to be used by large organizations.
◦ ‘Simpler’ models utilize one or more salvaged commercial bike components or may utilize components that you fabricate yourself. Fabrication may require (if building a chain transmission) that one or more small pieces of metal be drilled and cut (a few minutes with a hacksaw), and that you locate a person or shop who can take a few minutes to weld together those small pieces. This is the Bike-in-a-Shoe-Box approach.
◦ ‘Simplest’ models need no purchased bike components, have the fewest and least complex wooden pieces to be cut and drilled, require the very fewest tools, need no welding at all, and are therefore most straightforwardly fully-owner-buildable by an individual, and are very lowest cost.
Pre-Ordering of Plans
We are aiming to have the first Plans posted and available before the end of 2026.
• You can pre-order and pay now for Plans for any of these models, even if Plans for the model you want to build are not yet complete and available for download.
• Pre-orders serve to inform us of the relative popularity of each model. Models with the largest number of pre-orders will become our highest development priority.
• If you choose to pre-order Plans for a not-yet-available model, you later will be able to download your already-paid-for Plans at any time after they are posted online.
• Pre-orders assist us in building the Simple Cycle Project, by helping to pay the up-front costs of each model’s development as those costs are incurred.
• Organizations may choose to advance the Project’s development by placing multiple pre-orders. If doing so makes sense for your organization, you can estimate the number of people you are trying to help obtain a cycle, and then pre-order for each of them. Each pre-order serves as a ‘vote’ for quicker development of the particular model(s) in which you (and your clientele) have the most interest.
MODELS
LIST OF MODELS
Models are introduced on this page in an order which roughly reflects the present completeness of their development. This sequence will change as the arrival of pre-orders influences our priorities.
Kiki
A utilitarian ‘kick-bike’ (also known as a “foot-bike” or “kick-scooter”) designed for commuters who need the simplest possible bike-building project. Our kick-bikes can attain three quarters the speed and daily distance of a chain-drive pedal bike, despite the utter simplicity of their design. They can carry a small amount of cargo. Large diameter wheels steer confidently and efficiently through gravel and dirt. A Small version for shorter riders is included in the Plans.
Rolinga
This medium-sized utility bicycle is for adults who commute to school or work, and for those frequently running errands; anyone who needs enough cargo capacity to carry work supplies, a small toolbox, a few groceries, or a child. Large diameter wheels handle rough roads, dirt and gravel. Complexity: 'Simple'. Chain-drive only. A Small version with 20" wheels is included in the Plans.
Yalla
This large cargo bike is for medium and large adults who often need to carry cargo or a couple of child passengers over paved, gravel or dirt roads and tracks. The "long-tail" cargo area will hold 4 five-gallon/twenty-liter buckets or water jugs. Complexity is 'simple'. Chain-drive only. Included in the Plans is a small-wheel version for shorter riders.
Handy
This handcycle is for operation on sidewalks, non-rocky paths and smooth streets, and is narrow enough to pass through exterior doorways. Single-speed fixed-gear transmission is standard. Gear ratio can be adjusted to best match the user's strength and the terrain of operation. Can carry a toddler or a large water jug or a couple bags of groceries. Ergonomics, sizing and special-needs adaptations are all highly adjustable by the owner/builder. Complexity is 'Simpler'. Chain-drive only.
Mano
This handcycle is for outdoor use. Its large diameter wheels (either owner-built or wire-spoked) give it traction and a relatively smooth ride over rough surfaces. Can carry two toddlers or two large water jugs or a bushel of groceries. Ergonomics, sizing and special-needs adaptations are all highly adjustable. The Mano can accommodate a multi-speed front/drive hub. Can accommodate an entirely-owner-built linkage-drive. Complexity: 'Simple.'
Kudu
A utility cargo-carrying pushbike. Its small, wide 16" wheels can use pneumatic or solid bike tires or wheelbarrow tires. It has no transmission of any sort. Complexity: 'Simplest'.
Afar
A long-wheelbase recumbent bike. Long-distance ergonomic comfort for persons who have back or neck pain, those suffering shoulder/arm/hand weakness, or those unable to endure a standard bike seat. Very competent on gravel and dirt. Car-height seating and eyes-forward posture help create constant situational awareness in traffic. With minimal adjustments will accept 26", 29" and 700c wheels, and 26" fat tires, on either wire-spoked or wooden wheels. One size, best fits 5'3" to 6'4" (159 - 193cm).
Explore the World on Two Wheels
roxy
A recumbent bike for getting around the neighborhood and town. Car-height seating and eyes-forward posture provide consistent traffic awareness. You can easily put your feet flat on the ground while seated, an attribute which gives you stability and control when stopping and starting. Complexity: 'simple'. Chain-drive only. Wheels are 20" front and 26" rear. One size best fits 5'1" to 6' 3" (153 - 190 cm). This model accommodates the all-weather Aerojacket, and can be outfitted with a sun/rain canopy.
Explore the World on Two Wheels
greenway
A recumbent tricycle. Suitable for commuting, recreational riding or touring. Provides stability for those unable to balance on a two-wheel bike. Can be steered by persons who do not have two strong arms or who lack grip strength. Wheels 20" front and 26" rear. Owner-built jackshaft creates two-wheel drive and compound gearing; utilizes standard off-the-shelf bike wheels. Complexity: 'simple'. Chain-drive only. Plans also include two full-size cargo versions and one compact version for smaller riders. This trike model accommodates the owner-buildable all-weather Aerojacket. Can be outfitted with a sun/rain canopy.
Bakkie
Large capacity upright cargo trike. Box size, depth and width are all customizable. Wide-platform fenders support oversize loads. Jackshaft creates two-wheel drive and compound gearing; utilizes standard off-the-shelf bike wheels. Complexity: 'simple'. Chain-drive only. Small/compact version has 20" wheels.
Move people by pedal power
cabbie
The Cabbie is a multipurpose trike, able to carry 2 adult passengers (plus parcels), convertible to a 'school bus' (carrying 6+ small children), capable of hauling substantial cargo, and can serve as a vendor cart. Can support a large shade/rain/solar canopy. Will accept virtually any after-market chain-drive or hub-motor electric power assist. The Cabbie's canopy has room for a photovoltaic array of about 300 peak watts total.