through the desert with the monopole: how stéphane combines everyday life and adventure with monopole

ultra race with the cargobike

French photographer and cyclist Stéphane Chalmeau rides not one, but two MONoPOLE bikes. He uses one for his daily commute – compact, functional and equipped with a Pinion gearbox. The other has carried him through Spain: in the Desertus Bikus, one of the toughest ultracycling races in Europe.

His everyday bike impresses with its versatility: “I can take it on the train, carry it through narrow stairwells – and it still rides like a normal bike,” says Stéphane. The Pinion gearbox was new territory for him, but he now particularly appreciates its low maintenance and reliability.

more than just a city bike

He customized his second MONoPOLE for the adventure in Spain: Carbon wheels, triathlon handlebars, a customized shifting system and a specially adapted frame bag. The goal: maximum stability and function, even under the toughest conditions.

It was put to the test during the race itself – strong winds, rain, mud and long distances. But the bike held out: “While others were maintaining their chains, I just rinsed off the belt and kept going.” Only the weight of the set-up – around 28 kg – was noticeable on the climbs. “Looking back, I should have listened more to my own rhythm.”

The MONoPOLE certainly stood out: with its striking design and Pinion gearbox, it stood out from the crowd. “I was one of only three riders with a cargo bike – and mine got the most attention.”

Back in the city, Stéphane is back on the road with his commuter MONoPOLE. But now he knows that this bike can do much more than you might think at first glance.