Velo City: Bicycle Culture and City Life

Elian Cycles 02 Commuter

Elian Cycles 02 Commuter

While I usually prefer to see bikes shot outdoors, I’m going to say that this is one of my favorite shoots. With a typical Dutch nod towards architecture, the angular qualities of Elian Cycles’ 02 Commuter are sharply accentuated by the stark monotone setting, and provides an ideal arena within which to admire the hidden details.

Elian Cycles is a partnership between two Dutchmen: Elian Veltman and Wilco Drost. Elian is the engineer and framebuilder and Wilco is the designer. Not only do they apply a Dutch aesthetic to their frames, but also the national influence of purpose-driven design. Take their Commuter, for example. Whilst retaining the pared back silhouette of a bike usually destined for the velodrome, the rear wheel houses a Sturmey Archer Duomatic hub—two gears and a coaster brake. For those unfamiliar with this technology, the design actually dates back to the sixties. The transmission is engaged by a slight back-pedal and the brake by a more spirited push.

The Elian Cycles Commuter is now commercially available for purchase, and they also offer a cargo fiets which features a steering hub. Check it out on their website and blog. Thanks to Joachim Baan for the fantastic photography.

Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter
Elian Cycles 02 Commuter