The MUSKETIER as a camera platform
Over the past few years, we have used a wide variety of cargo bikes – from longtail to longjohn models – for complex tracking shots in sports and advertising films. As flexible as these solutions were, they often involved compromises: tall rigs, unstable handling and, at times, rather daring riding situations. Blind trust between the rider and the camera operator was essential, particularly during fast manoeuvres.
Towards the end of last year, we therefore expanded our fleet with another vehicle: the MUSKETIER from Radkutsche. The aim was to be able to transport several people, including extensive camera set-ups, all at the same time. After numerous productions, I am convinced that this decision was absolutely the right one!
The MUSKETIER’s generous loading area offers sufficient space for complete camera set-ups with a Ronin gimbal, monitors, batteries and additional equipment – including the crew. Particularly impressive is its low centre of gravity: even at higher speeds, the handling remains stable and controllable. This is a crucial advantage when even the slightest vibration becomes visible in the final footage.
Added to this is the bike’s tremendous manoeuvrability. Whether it’s narrow old-town alleyways, crowded squares or winding paths – the MUSKETIER moves effortlessly where larger vehicles have long since reached their limits. This allows us to flexibly use almost any publicly accessible location as a filming location.
Camera gimbal on 3-wheels
The combination of a large camera gimbal and a cargo bike has more than proved its worth in practice. Whilst one person concentrates fully on the traffic, the camera operator and photographer can work safely on the cargo area. This allows for smooth tracking shots as well as dynamic photos and video footage to be captured simultaneously from the same movement.
For advertising campaigns, we have already used the MUSKETIER to accompany models through urban settings, parks and even along beaches – always at eye level, always on the move.
Practical benefits
Our clients particularly appreciate the speed and flexibility of the setup. No time-consuming track installation, no complicated permits for vehicles in pedestrian zones and no unnecessary waiting times. The MUSKETIER operates quietly, is emission-free and enables very immediate, mobile working on set.
However, it’s rare to go completely unnoticed – the bike attracts curious glances almost everywhere it goes.
Conclusion
The MUSKETIER Radkutsche GmbH has established itself as a serious film vehicle for our productions. Thanks to its versatile configuration and operational possibilities, it is ideally suited to dynamic outdoor shoots where mobility, stability and image quality are equally crucial.
For modern tracking shots in urban environments, we can now hardly imagine working without this film bike.
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