Urban Fahrradbau Strada Magic: Cycling safely in pairs

Time and again, we come across people who cannot – or are no longer able to – cycle on their own. The reasons for this vary greatly. But there are solutions – so-called specialised bikes. We can only imagine how demoralising it is to suddenly find yourself unable to cycle any more: taking a break because of a cold doesn’t count. We wanted to find out: what’s available, and how do they ride? Specifically, we were looking for a bike that would enable people with disabilities – such as balance problems following a stroke – to cycle again, whilst also offering a sporting aspect. The Strada Magic from Urban Fahrradbau met our criteria: three wheels, two riders, suitable for off-road use.

​The Strada Magic is a sporty bike that offers people with physical disabilities new mobility and the joy of cycling. - Sandra Schuberth, editor at BIKE

Three wheels, two people

The name ‘Urban Fahrradbau’ is not inspired by city life. Alexander Urban founded his company in 2012 – but the story began earlier. Around the year 2000, he built his first bespoke special-purpose bike as a side project for a friend. This eventually developed into a full-time business. Urban Fahrradbau develops bikes for people for whom standard models are not enough. The most popular model is the Cruiser – similar in design to the Magic, but not collapsible. Those who need transport flexibility opt for the Magic, which fits into the boot. When assembling it, the chain needs to be aligned; there is a small spirit level on the extension arm for this purpose. Alignment works best on a level surface.

The riding concept is as simple as it is well thought-out: the person at the front sits in a suspension seat and pedals along when they can and want to. If not, they can take a break – there’s a freewheel function for that. The Bosch CargoLine motor, with up to 120 Nm of torque, has recently taken over the rest – it compensates when the rider at the front is pedalling less and provides confident assistance on inclines. The person at the back sits upright, steers and sets the pace.

In the front seat

The recumbent seat fitted for the front rider can be adjusted for firmness, whilst the length of the armrest can be adjusted. Depending on your needs, crank lengths ranging from 115 to 165 mm or a length-adjustable crank are available. Clip-in pedals might be useful for keeping your feet more securely on the pedals.

On the handlebars

The handling of a tricycle is noticeably different from that of a bicycle. It takes some getting used to the fact that, on a sloping path, the tricycle also leans to one side – due to the two front wheels being side by side. As a cyclist, you instinctively lean against this tilt, even though the bike isn’t actually tipping over. It takes a few kilometres to get used to it. As you’d expect, the turning circle is large, and the width – which ensures plenty of stability and safety – also takes up more space on the cycle path. Whilst cycling, we’re surprised at how easily we can chat to one another, as the riders’ heads are closer together than on a traditional tandem.

A practical approach

Lights and a luggage rack are fitted as standard. However, the open luggage area behind the recumbent seat can quickly become cramped when two people are carrying bags, which is why packing straps are essential for securing luggage – any additional luggage goes on the luggage rack. Optional accessories such as a spoke guard show that Urban Fahrradbau has taken various limitations into account.

Conclusion

The Strada Magic is no compromise. It’s a bike built for a specific situation – and one that tackles that situation very well. Anyone who cannot or is not allowed to cycle alone will find this a bike that restores mobility without sacrificing riding enjoyment. And that, ultimately, is the point: it’s not just an aid. It’s a brilliant bike for anyone who wants to be more active despite physical limitations.

Urban Bicycle Manufacturing Strada Magic