YouTubers created a ‘working’ bike camper RV and we kinda love it

In a seriously compelling display of creativity and determination, two guys from the popular YouTube channel Dangie Bros recently embarked on an adventure that would appeal to all the bicyclists out there. Their mission? To undertake a two-day, 100-mile (160 km) road trip in a one-of-a-kind bike camper RV that they designed and built.

Chris and Jeff, the masterminds behind this unconventional project, set out on their journey with their innovative creation in tow. The bike camper RV, constructed primarily from sturdy plywood and reinforced with aluminum siding, tipped the scales at approximately 500 pounds (227 kg). Its interior boasted several functional features, including a kitchen area complete with a working sink and gas stove, convenient electrical outlets for charging devices, a roof vent fitted with an electric fan for ventilation, multiple windows to allow in fresh air, and a single entry door for easy access.

However, the duo soon encountered the first major obstacle: the formidable challenge of pedaling the heavy RV uphill. They didn’t take easy way out and build their RV onto a big e-bike with 750w motor, nope.

While their design was not particularly aerodynamic, it became evident that the main hurdle was the sheer effort required to keep the vehicle moving solely through the power of their leg muscles. The person taking a break in the rear of the camper effectively became dead weight, necessitating their assistance in pushing from behind, especially during uphill stretches.

Undeterred by the initial setback, Chris and Jeff persisted on their planned route, which primarily followed a well-designed network of bicycle highways. Their slow-moving RV provided a unique experience for both cyclists and motorists, prompting curiosity and engagement from passersby. However, the project also shed light on the crucial need for safe and unobstructed cycling infrastructure. Although the mini-camper required more space than the average cyclist, it served as a reminder of the vulnerability cyclists face when sharing the road with larger vehicles.

Spacious kitchen?

During their journey, the intrepid travelers encountered an unexpected roadblock. While navigating a sidewalk alongside a busy road, a sign post obstructed their path, forcing them to seek an alternative route. Despite such obstacles, they persevered, albeit at a modest pace.

Progress was slow, and by the end of the first day, they had covered a mere 10 miles. Their journey was punctuated by visits to fast-food drive-throughs and occasional repairs to their unique contraption. After an unsuccessful attempt to camp in a residential neighborhood, they sought refuge in that most iconic of campsites — a Walmart parking lot — for an overnight stay, graciously complying with the requests of local authorities.

The video showing the journey is hilarious, with plenty of jokes between the brothers and the people they meet on the road, and even in the Starbucks drive-thru. But, it was hard going.

Master bedroom suite

Undeterred by the challenges they faced, the duo approached the second day with renewed determination. In a stroke of resourcefulness, they acquired an inexpensive pedal bicycle and devised a towing mechanism using a tow rope. This innovative solution effectively doubled their manpower, enabling them to make greater progress. Pushing ahead, they covered an additional distance of approximately 25 miles, demonstrating their resilience and unwavering commitment to their self-imposed challenge.

While their unconventional bike camper RV may not have offered the luxurious comforts typically associated with traditional recreational vehicles, it provided a valuable lesson: a grand motorhome or even a smaller camper van is not a prerequisite for carrying the essentials of a comfortable life on the road. Through their ingenuity and perseverance, Chris and Jeff proved that a humble pedal tricycle, when coupled with their clever design, could serve as a viable and practical alternative.

With cargo bikes evolving with each passing week, it won’t be long before we see new designs building on what the Dangie Bros have done.