Douze Hêta: the French cargo bike for experts and families

For the tenth anniversary of the brand, Douze Cycles launches its new electric cargo bike Hêta, a biporter manufactured in France.

This may not yet resonate with families or daily object transport enthusiasts, but Douze Cycles is already well-known among professionals. This French bike brand launched in 2012 celebrated its 10th year this week (12/12, hence the name) and is unveiling its new model. This new cargo bike biporter Hêta replaces the G4, with numerous improvements.

G4 to better Hêta?

First improvement, the platform widens from 800 to 850 mm, increasing load capacity. A plus for professionals or for children’s legs on the bench. Exactly, Douze Cycles has refined its equipment, notably with the EPP box (Expanded Polypropylene) with an aluminum frame.

The Hêta cargo bike can transport up to three children, secured with magnetic buckle harnesses. An adult can also sit in the front box. For professionals, they can move 300 liters of volume, the equivalent of a small car trunk, and up to 100 kg payload. For the rider or carrier, the stem and saddle are adjustable in height, suitable for heights between 1.55 and 1.95 meters.

Handling at the heart of Douze Hêta

The motor varies depending on the version, with a design suitable for Bafang M500 and Shimano EP8 Cargo models, as announced by the brand. That’s why we don’t have autonomy data, but two Shimano 504 Wh and DLG 672 Wh batteries are available.

With a center of gravity and a cable steering system (integrated like the pulley), Douze promises exceptional handling. The suspension features an 80 mm travel front fork, while the saddle can be optionally suspended. Finally, the architecture of the Douze Hêta allows disassembly into two parts in minutes, to facilitate storage (the bike measures 2.75 m) or transport.

A French-made and recyclable cargo bike

Douze Cycles claims that 100% of the manufacturing of this Hêta bike is French, at least excluding batteries, motors, and components (brakes). The parts are produced in the east, distributed across 5 departments in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. The components are also recyclable and easily repairable, with the company adding that the aluminum is “mostly sourced from the French recycling industry”.

The Douze Hêta has not yet announced prices, as its release is scheduled for 2023.

Also read: Gaya, French elongated and cargo bikes at attractive prices