A Guide to Electric Cargo Bikes

Whether you’re a parent looking to cut out the cost of childcare, or simply a cyclist with a large family and an ever-expanding list of errands, a retro electric bike can help you go farther, faster, and carry more. But with so many options on the market, finding the best one for your needs can be difficult. To help, we’ve compiled this guide to the best electric cargo bikes currently available. We’ve included information on everything from the size of the motor to how much weight each model can carry, along with a detailed look at the different features to help you find the right bike for your needs.

Energy Storage

The size of a battery is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an electric cargo bike. It affects how long you can ride between charges, and the top speed of the bike. The higher the capacity, the more miles you can cover on a single charge. We’ve found that a 400Wh or larger battery offers the most range for riders who plan on taking their kids and other cargo on longer trips.

In addition to the battery, you’ll want to think about other factors that will impact your bike’s range, such as terrain, rider and cargo weight, and how often you use the throttle. It’s important to note that if you use the throttle a lot, you will drain your battery more quickly than riding with a low pedal assist level. Similarly, climbing hills will use more power than riding on flat roads.

Passenger and Cargo Capacity

The amount of cargo you can carry on an electric cargo bike will depend on the size of the frame, the number of gears, the type of drive system, and the power of the motor. You can typically expect to see cargo capacities ranging from two to eight or more cubic feet.

Some brands offer accessories that will allow you to increase the capacity of your electric cargo bike. These include seats, fenders, and racks. Most brands also have a selection of front and rear lights, which are important for safety and visibility when hauling passengers or cargo.

It’s worth mentioning that electric cargo bikes can be challenging to ride in areas where the road infrastructure is less than ideal. They are often quite large and can be hard to maneuver on narrow bike paths and in traffic. However, as more and more cities embrace the benefits of alternative transportation, we’re seeing more infrastructure geared towards these larger e-bikes.