Electric cargo bikes that make it easier to carry your gear,easy to travel
Cargo ebikes are like the pickup trucks of the bike world. They're built strong to carry heavy stuff, from sports equipment to bags full of beach gear. They are designed to be stable and easy to ride, even with a big load.
These bikes help you pedal, so you can do more like carry groceries or take your kids to the park without getting too tired.Plus, they make riding a lot of fun because they let you go further and faster without extra effort.
What Types Of Cargo Bikes Are There
A cargo bike is basically any bike, tricycle, or pedal-powered vehicle made specifically to haul stuff—big or small. In its simplest form, a cargo bike could just be a regular bike with a strong front basket made for carrying heavier loads than usual.
Cargo bikes come in various designs, each tailored to specific needs and uses. Here are some common types of cargo bikes you might encounter:
Longtail Bikes
Longtail bikes have an extended rear frame that provides extra space behind the rider. This space can be used for additional seats for children or for carrying groceries and other goods. These bikes often feature racks or platforms and sometimes come with built-in bags or panniers for storage.
Front Loaders (Bakfiets)
Front loaders, also known as bakfiets, feature a large box or cargo area situated between the handlebars and the front wheel. This design is ideal for transporting children, pets, or heavy loads because you can keep an eye on your cargo while riding. Some models come with a cover to protect the cargo from the elements.
Tricycle Cargo Bikes
Tricycle cargo bikes have three wheels for added stability, making them a great option for carrying heavy or bulky loads. These bikes can be designed with the cargo area at the front or the back. The three-wheel design is particularly popular among those who need a stable platform for their deliveries or family rides.
Electric Cargo Bikes
Electric cargo bikes are equipped with a motor to assist with pedaling, making it easier to transport heavy loads or travel longer distances. They combine the functionality of traditional cargo bikes with the added boost of electric power, which is helpful when climbing hills or when you need a break from pedaling.
Folding Cargo Bikes
Folding cargo bikes offer the storage and carrying capabilities of a standard cargo bike but with the added convenience of being foldable. This type is ideal for urban dwellers who may need to store their bike in small spaces or transport it on public transit.
Cargo Bikes Easy To Ride
Cargo bikes are generally easy to ride, but they do have some unique characteristics that can take a bit of getting used to, especially if you're new to them.
Balance and Handling
Cargo bikes are longer and heavier than standard bicycles, which affects their handling. It might feel a bit awkward at first, especially when turning corners or navigating tight spaces. However, many people quickly adapt to the difference in handling.
Stability
Thanks to their design, especially with tricycle cargo bikes, they are quite stable when loaded, which can be a significant advantage if you're carrying heavy or bulky items. Two-wheeled cargo bikes also offer good stability due to their low center of gravity and extended wheelbase.
Riding with Loads
The experience of riding a cargo bike can change significantly depending on the load. An unevenly loaded bike might feel unbalanced, so it’s important to distribute weight evenly. Once loaded properly, cargo bikes ride smoothly, and many models come with gears specifically designed to help with heavier loads.
Electric Assist
Many cargo bikes come equipped with electric motors that assist with pedaling. These electric cargo bikes are particularly easy to ride, even when fully loaded or going up hills. The motor helps to mitigate the bike's weight and any load you're carrying, making the ride less strenuous.
Are Cargo Bikes Heavy
Cargo bikes are generally heavier than standard bicycles due to their larger size and the additional materials needed to construct them. The extra weight is necessary to support the bike's capacity to carry heavy loads or multiple passengers.
Frame Material
Cargo bike frames are often made from stronger and heavier materials such as steel to ensure they can handle the added weight of cargo or passengers without compromising structural integrity.
Size and Structure
Cargo bikes have larger frames and often include built-in racks, extended rear platforms, or front-loading boxes, all of which add to the overall weight.
Wheels and Tires
Cargo bikes typically have thicker, more durable tires and stronger wheels designed to support heavy loads, which also increases the weight.
Components
Due to their functionality, cargo bikes might have additional components like a second set of handlebars for a front passenger, seats for children, or built-in storage boxes. Electric cargo bikes include the weight of the motor and battery, which can be significant.
How Big Are Cargo Bikes
Cargo bikes vary in size depending on their design and intended use.
Length and Width
Most cargo bikes are longer than standard bicycles due to their extended frames or cargo boxes. Typically, a cargo bike can be anywhere from 6 to 9 feet (about 1.8 to 2.7 meters) long. This extra length helps accommodate the cargo space needed for hauling goods or passengers.
Width is another important dimension, especially for cargo bikes designed to carry wider loads or additional passengers. The width of a cargo bike can range from about 2 to over 4 feet (0.6 to 1.2 meters), depending on the model and type. For example, tricycle cargo bikes, which have a broader base for stability, tend to be wider than two-wheeled versions.
Height
The height of a cargo bike can vary but generally aligns with that of standard bicycles. What may differ significantly is the height of the cargo area, particularly in front loader models where the cargo box sits lower to the ground to facilitate easier loading and improved stability.
Cargo Area Dimensions
The size of the cargo area itself varies:
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Longtail bikes typically feature an extended rear rack or platform that can be around 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) in length.
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Front loaders or Bakfiets can have a cargo box approximately 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) long and up to 2 feet (0.6 meters) wide, providing substantial space for goods or even seating for children.
- Cargo trikes might have even larger cargo boxes or platforms, particularly those designed for commercial use.
Best Cargo Bike:We Have Tested
TESWAY S5: Best Budget Cargo Bike
Looking for a great cargo bike that won’t break the bank? The TESWAY S5 is your best bet. It comes with a strong 750W motor that lets you travel up to 100 miles on one charge—perfect for long rides or running errands around town. The easy-to-read display shows all your ride info clearly.
The TESWAY S5 is also built for comfort. It has a soft rear seat with a backrest, ideal for fun trips with friends or family. You can add bigger seats, baskets, or a front rack, making it really versatile for whatever you need to carry.
The bike handles bumps well thanks to its hydraulic front fork, so you can ride smoothly on rough streets. It has a strong aluminum frame that looks good and includes an extra rack for more stability. It also has a shiny paint finish that lasts long.
Safety is important, and the TESWAY S5 has powerful 180mm*2.3T disk brakes that give you great control and stop the bike quickly when needed.
If you’re tight on space, you’ll love that the TESWAY S5 folds up. You can easily store it away when you’re not using it.
You can also add different accessories to increase how much it can carry, making the TESWAY S5 a smart choice for carrying groceries, sports gear, or taking kids for a ride. TESWAY S5 only costs $999.99!
Best Overall Electric Cargo Bike: Globe Haul LT
If you're willing to spend more for top quality, the Globe Haul LT is the best overall electric cargo bike. It has a powerful 700W motor and bright headlights with three settings. These lights make sure other drivers see you and help you see the road better.
At $3,500, the Globe Haul LT includes everything you need: a back rack, sturdy dual kickstands, fenders, and built-in lights. The Globe is a handy tool that lets you adjust the lights and lock the bike quickly—great for quick stops at the store.
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FAQs
Can cargo bikes be used for family activities?
Yes, cargo bikes are excellent for family activities. They can transport children, groceries, and sports equipment easily. Models like longtail bikes and front loaders are particularly suited for carrying multiple passengers, including children in specially designed seats or cargo boxes.
What should I consider when choosing a cargo bike?
Consider the type of loads you plan to carry, your typical travel distances, storage needs, and whether you need the bike to be foldable. Additionally, electric cargo bikes can be a good choice if you require assistance for longer rides or hilly terrains.
What sizes do cargo bikes come in?
Cargo bikes are generally longer and sometimes wider than standard bikes. Lengths can range from 6 to 9 feet, while widths can be between 2 to over 4 feet depending on the type. Tricycle cargo bikes tend to be wider due to their stability requirements.
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