Why Nanno Builds Cargo Bikes with Chromoly Steel Instead of Aluminum
At Nanno, we believe that the materials we choose for our cargo bikes play a pivotal role in creating a product that is durable, safe, and reliable for everyday use. That’s why we design and build our bikes with chromoly steel instead of aluminum. While aluminum may seem appealing due to its lightweight properties, chromoly steel stands out as the superior choice for cargo bikes. Here’s why:
1. Superior Flexibility and Strength: Steel flexes, Aluminum Breaks
Cargo bikes are designed to carry heavy loads—whether that’s groceries, tools, or even your children. Under such stress, the frame material needs to handle vibrations and weight without failure. Chromoly steel is inherently flexible, allowing it to absorb shocks and stresses over time without compromising its structural integrity.
On the other hand, aluminum is much more brittle. While it may hold up initially, over time and under heavy loads, it can crack or fail, especially at weld points. This is a significant safety risk for cargo bike riders. With proper design and testing, chromoly steel ensures longevity and reliability, even under the toughest conditions.
2. Repairability: Steel Can Be Welded, Aluminum Cannot
Life happens—frames can get damaged. With chromoly steel, repairs and repainting are straightforward and cost-effective. A skilled welder can easily fix a steel frame, extending the life of your bike and keeping it on the road for years to come.
And last but not least: Some skilled NANNO customers love to weld and add new things to their bike to customise it for their own business or needs. No problem with a Nanno cargo bike!
Aluminum, however, doesn’t offer the same advantage. Once an aluminum frame is cracked or damaged, it is nearly impossible to repair effectively. This often means an aluminum bike with a damaged frame must be discarded entirely, which is not only inconvenient but also wasteful.
3. Minimal Weight Difference: Weight Savings Don’t Matter for E-Cargo Bikes
While aluminum is about 5% lighter than steel, the weight difference is negligible when it comes to cargo bikes, especially because you need thicker material when using aluminum. NANNO cargo bikes are built to handle heavy loads, and with the addition of an electric motor, the overall weight is far less important than durability, repairability and safety.
The slight weight savings aluminum offers simply don’t justify its compromises in strength, flexibility, and repairability. For a cargo bike, the robustness of chromoly steel far outweighs the minimal weight penalty.
4. Steel is Sustainable: Built to Last and 100% recyclable!
At Nanno, we’re committed to sustainability, and chromoly steel aligns with this mission. Steel’s durability means fewer bikes end up in landfills over time, and its repairability further extends its life. Additionally, steel is more recyclable than aluminum, making it a more eco-friendly choice when the time eventually comes to retire your bike.
5. Ride Quality: The Smooth, Responsive Feel of Steel
Steel offers a superior ride quality, especially important for cargo bikes that often traverse bumpy roads or uneven terrain. Its natural flexibility provides a smoother, more forgiving ride compared to aluminum, which transmits vibrations directly to the rider and cargo.
Nanno’s Commitment to Quality
Our choice to use chromoly steel is not just about material—it reflects our commitment to building bikes that prioritize safety, durability, and performance. At Nanno, we believe in creating products that last, delivering value to our customers for years to come.
If you’re looking for a cargo bike that you can trust to carry your family, goods, or anything in between, a chromoly steel frame from Nanno is the smart choice. It’s more than just a bike—it’s a long-term investment in quality and reliability.
Choose Nanno. Choose steel. Choose a better ride.
