Helix Update?
#2626
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 117
Likes: 3
#2628
Ken

Joined: Aug 2019
Posts: 23
Likes: 5
From: USA
I just got mine. I ordered with a stated April delivery date. I was going to post a picture of the weld, but looks like I can't post pictures until I have ten posts. Shoot me a private message if you want pictures of the weld (or the rest of it). It looks exactly like the previously posted before/after pic to my amateur eyes.
#2629
Weld pictures
See post #2548 above. Some owners have posted pics of small variations where the bottom edge of the new weld doesn't quite encompass the bottom lip which spoils the "perfect" appearance of the fillet, but others are exactly as shown above.
#2632
Yes, the XX1 crankset will fit, it's the crankset supplied for ultralight models, but be warned there are several constraints to be aware of when choosing a crankset. One of these is that the chain runs very close to the swing arm tube. Consequently there are limits to the largest sprocket and chain ring combinations that can be fitted without the chain starting to saw through the swing arm. The rear changer should also fit but you should contact Helix directly for detailed clarifications. It may take several days to get a response. You can see some of the ultralight derailleur component details if you go to Helix.ca and click on "Order" then "compare".
#2633
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Yes, the XX1 crankset will fit, it's the crankset supplied for ultralight models, but be warned there are several constraints to be aware of when choosing a crankset. One of these is that the chain runs very close to the swing arm tube. Consequently there are limits to the largest sprocket and chain ring combinations that can be fitted without the chain starting to saw through the swing arm. The rear changer should also fit but you should contact Helix directly for detailed clarifications. It may take several days to get a response. You can see some of the ultralight derailleur component details if you go to Helix.ca and click on "Order" then "compare".
Different rider different answer. So I myself also a little bit confused. These were their respond.
Changeable:
Rider A: Using a XDR Driver.
Rider B: Quoted from Helix Upgrade Guide - You can upgrade the cassette to any configuration. Everything from a 9 tooth sprocket up to a 51t will work. The limiting factor is the front chainring. Anything above 36t will a need a smaller front chainring.
Not Changeable:
Rider C: XX1 Rear derailleur cannot mount to the hanger. Only fit rear derailleur with direct mount.
#2634
Yup, understand for the crankset. What about the cassette and rear derailleur? I also have been checking other Helix bike forum / social media.
Different rider different answer. So I myself also a little bit confused. These were their respond.
Changeable:
Rider A: Using a XDR Driver.
Rider B: Quoted from Helix Upgrade Guide - You can upgrade the cassette to any configuration. Everything from a 9 tooth sprocket up to a 51t will work. The limiting factor is the front chainring. Anything above 36t will a need a smaller front chainring.
Not Changeable:
Rider C: XX1 Rear derailleur cannot mount to the hanger. Only fit rear derailleur with direct mount.
Different rider different answer. So I myself also a little bit confused. These were their respond.
Changeable:
Rider A: Using a XDR Driver.
Rider B: Quoted from Helix Upgrade Guide - You can upgrade the cassette to any configuration. Everything from a 9 tooth sprocket up to a 51t will work. The limiting factor is the front chainring. Anything above 36t will a need a smaller front chainring.
Not Changeable:
Rider C: XX1 Rear derailleur cannot mount to the hanger. Only fit rear derailleur with direct mount.
- Any road, MTB and other type derailleur will work, however we recommend Shimano "Shadow" derailleurs because they are low profile and will minimize folded dimensions and also the cable pull clamp will not interfere with the steerer knob when folded.
#2636
Full Member

Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 205
Likes: 2
Bikes: Stromer ST-1; Gary Fisher SAAB edition; Dahon Speed D7; Motobecane Grand Touring 1972
travoy?
Sadly, I don't have a Helix. But I do have a couple of older Burley Travoys. I'd think they would work well with a Helix.
https://www.burley.com/product/travo...YaAjpgEALw_wcB
https://www.burley.com/product/travo...YaAjpgEALw_wcB
#2637
Full Member
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 382
Likes: 19
I received an email about an ultra light weight helix now available. It's the first helix email I have received in years. I had forgotten I had signed up for it. So the promise of a real light weight helix is finally here? For those who already have a helix, what are your thoughts?
#2639
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,456
Likes: 98
From: NorCal
Bikes: Haibike Sduro Trekking SL, Rivendell Appaloosa, Concinnity singlespeed, KHS mini velo (Japan market), Trident Spike trike
Hey, I got it, too!
"Helix is now available in an Ultralight spec using the industry’s best components including Shimano Dura-Ace derailleur, Sram XX1 Eagle carbon crankset, Formula Cura XC hydraulic brakes and more. Throughout 2022 we will be releasing a full line of accessories including mudguards, racks, trailer mounts and more."
"Helix is now available in an Ultralight spec using the industry’s best components including Shimano Dura-Ace derailleur, Sram XX1 Eagle carbon crankset, Formula Cura XC hydraulic brakes and more. Throughout 2022 we will be releasing a full line of accessories including mudguards, racks, trailer mounts and more."
#2640
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,456
Likes: 98
From: NorCal
Bikes: Haibike Sduro Trekking SL, Rivendell Appaloosa, Concinnity singlespeed, KHS mini velo (Japan market), Trident Spike trike
#2641
I received an email about an ultra light weight helix now available. It's the first helix email I have received in years. I had forgotten I had signed up for it. So the promise of a real light weight helix is finally here? For those who already have a helix, what are your thoughts?
#2642
Senior Member


Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 3,838
Likes: 398
From: Michigan
Bikes: Trek 730 (quad), 720 & 830, Bike Friday NWT, Brompton M36R & M6R, Dahon HAT060 & HT060, ...
Helix in the news, specifically in New Atlas, an on-line magazine dedicated to innovation.
#2646
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,456
Likes: 98
From: NorCal
Bikes: Haibike Sduro Trekking SL, Rivendell Appaloosa, Concinnity singlespeed, KHS mini velo (Japan market), Trident Spike trike
#2647
Senior Member

Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 2,529
Likes: 567
Actually, the frame itself isn't lightweight and I think that with the complex helicoidal folding system and locking mechanism for the fork, it cannot be lightweight.
The lower weight is obtained with very low weight parts and some tricks like Tubolito ultra lightweight inner tubes and lightweight Donnely tires that seem not available anymore (the latest Ultralight Helix mention "TBA 24" x 1.4" (ETRTO 507-33), 75-100 psi folding bead with puncture protection" for the tires, Helix can try to have custom size tires made by Schwalbe like Brompton and Moulton do).
Indeed, the price went to the level most people expected after the launch of the Kickstarter campaign but is still lower than the price of the hand welded titanium Seattle Cycles Burke 20 (if this bike is really available ?)..
The lower weight is obtained with very low weight parts and some tricks like Tubolito ultra lightweight inner tubes and lightweight Donnely tires that seem not available anymore (the latest Ultralight Helix mention "TBA 24" x 1.4" (ETRTO 507-33), 75-100 psi folding bead with puncture protection" for the tires, Helix can try to have custom size tires made by Schwalbe like Brompton and Moulton do).
Indeed, the price went to the level most people expected after the launch of the Kickstarter campaign but is still lower than the price of the hand welded titanium Seattle Cycles Burke 20 (if this bike is really available ?)..
#2649
I haven’t posted here in a while but after waiting for years with no tangible progress I finally decided to submit a request for a refund for my two pre-ordered bikes. I just received credit back on my statement and hope that remaining backers/those with pre-ordered units get their bikes soon. I’ve since acquired a couple of e-bikes and Helix no longer fits into my long-term plans. I wish Peter and everyone else waiting on bikes the best of luck.
#2650
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 57
Likes: 0
I haven’t posted here in a while but after waiting for years with no tangible progress I finally decided to submit a request for a refund for my two pre-ordered bikes. I just received credit back on my statement and hope that remaining backers/those with pre-ordered units get their bikes soon. I’ve since acquired a couple of e-bikes and Helix no longer fits into my long-term plans. I wish Peter and everyone else waiting on bikes the best of luck.





