The Hamburg-based bike brand Yoonit is combining the sale of a special edition of the Mini cargo bike with a fundraising campaign. For every Impact Edition compact cargo bike sold, the brand donates 25 children’s helmets to charitable projects. The donations are documented on the website wirpflanzenhelme.de.
The technical basis is the tried-and-tested Yoonit concept, which features extremely small wheels. This design allows cargo to be carried over the front wheel without raising the centre of gravity too high. Our test confirms that the Yoonit Mini an extremely lively ride, combined with a relaxed, fairly upright seating position.
Powerful, fast and fun: the Yoonit is a nippy, agile little e-bike for those who love a good corner, but it can take more than you’d think. – Conclusion: MYBIKE test of the Yoonit Mini Electric Gates
Shimano EP6 meets Gates Carbon Drive
The Shimano EP6 motor delivers “a rather snappy response right from the start”, whilst remaining comparatively quiet. The Mini Impact Edition uses the 630 Wh battery, whilst the test model was still fitted with a 504 Wh battery.
The 5-speed Shimano Steps Di2 electronic gear system works in conjunction with a Gates belt drive. The gear ratio is 55 to 32 teeth. The CroMo steel frame can be adjusted via a quick-release mechanism to suit riders between 1.60 and 2.00 metres tall. The maximum load capacity is just over 180 kilograms. BIKE magazine describes the riding position as “relaxed, fairly upright”.
Daily Basket and three carrier variants
The Mini Impact Edition comes with the Daily Basket carrier system. Yoonit offers three different carrier systems, which can be swapped using quick-release fasteners. The Daily Basket is the classic basket for simply ‘pack it in and off you go’ and can carry up to 80 kilograms, including the carrier.
The Job Carrier offers a loading area for crates, boxes or bags, with plenty of options for securing them. The Family Up Carrier consists of a fabric-covered aluminium frame with space for a child seat and room for shopping.
A ring lock allows for short-term parking and can be supplemented with a cable lock. A rear luggage rack with a load capacity of 20 kilograms is available as an option. The slogan ‘This bike plants 25 helmets’ on the fork remains visible even years later, serving as a reminder of the idea behind the project.
Why the helmet campaign is important
Yoonit cites three reasons for the initiative. Firstly, a new helmet can be a financial burden for some families. However, safety should be accessible to every child. Secondly, many everyday risks are underestimated. Road safety education and awareness campaigns help children and families to stay safe on the roads.
Thirdly, cycle helmets are often used for too long. They should be replaced after a serious fall, but are frequently passed on or bought second-hand. It is often unclear whether they still provide reliable protection.
Partners of the initiative
Shimano is acting as the technology partner for the Yoonit Mini Impact Edition and is supporting the initiative. Lazer, as a project partner, is manufacturing the children’s helmets. Paul Lange, in collaboration with specialist bicycle retailers, is making the campaign possible.
Yoonit puts it this way: "We develop cargo bikes that families use every day. Supporting children in their independence whilst protecting them as best we can is a responsibility we take seriously."
The brand emphasises three principles: safety is the foundation of independent mobility and should be a given for every child. Every child should be able to cycle safely, regardless of their family’s financial situation. Those who travel safely gain independence, confidence and greater freedom in their everyday lives.
Schools, social services and charitable organisations in need of new cycle helmets can apply for support throughout the year. The first children’s helmets are due to be handed over shortly as part of a joint launch project with the Berlin-based cargo bike retailer isicargo and the nationwide initiative “Sport vernetzt”.
Yoonit Mini Impact Edition – Details & Price
- Price: 5,730 euros
- Frame / fork material: CroMo steel, manufactured in the Netherlands
- E-bike motor system / drive: Shimano EP6/Gates carbon belt
- Battery capacity: 630 Wh
- Circuit: Shimano Steps Di2 electric 5-speed hub gear system
- Brakes: Shimano BR-MT420, hydraulic disc brakes (4-piston), 180 mm brake discs
- Front/rear wheel size: 16/18 inches
- Suitable for child seats: Yes
- Weight of the bicycle: 27 kg
- Maximum payload (including carrier and accessories): 80 kg
- Maximum total payload (including the driver): 155 kg
- Maximum rider weight: 100 kg
- Length: 177.5 cm
- Frame size: Plain, suitable for people between 1.60 and 2.00 metres tall
- Colour: Rolling Stone (grey)
- Special features/accessories: Various boxes, baskets and fittings as accessories, including for commercial use
Sebastian Brust
Editor
