Electric Cargo Bikes, also known as ecargo bikes, are engineered to haul substantial loads, whether it’s goods or people. Their adaptability makes them a favorite among riders for various needs, from ferrying children and carrying groceries to offering a ride to another adult. These robust and practical ebikes empower users to manage daily tasks and reduce reliance on cars. Moreover, electric cargo bikes are increasingly utilized for commercial deliveries, transporting food, packages, and more.
Exploring Electric Cargo Bike Designs and Styles
Long-tail electric cargo bikes are characterized by their robust, elongated frame, specifically designed with an extended rear rack area for cargo or passengers. These frames commonly feature a mid-step design, providing a lower standover height for enhanced rider accessibility and stability, especially when loaded. The combination of a longer frame and smaller diameter wheels contributes to a lower center of gravity, thereby increasing overall stability.
Moped-style utility electric bikes typically boast a step-through frame, making them versatile for carrying an adult passenger, a child seat, or a platform packed with equipment. The step-through design promotes easy mounting and dismounting, balance, a lower center of gravity, and improved stability, crucial when riding with extra weight.
Bakfiets, or front-loading box-style electric cargo bikes, are gaining traction in North America, mirroring their popularity in Europe. They are distinguished by a large front basket, capable of accommodating multiple children or significant cargo. (Please note: Rad Power Bikes currently does not offer a front-loading model.)
Electric cargo bikes are inherently equipped with rechargeable batteries, motors, and controllers to deliver varying levels of pedal assistance, essential when carrying heavy loads. In North America, many cargo and utility ebikes also include a throttle for full electric power, eliminating the need for pedaling. While most models come with gears for adjusting pedaling cadence, single-speed options are also available.
The frames and materials used in electric cargo bikes are built for durability and to withstand greater payload capacities compared to standard ebikes or traditional bicycles. Typically, payload capacities for electric cargo bikes start at 300lbs, with bakfiets-style models generally starting around 200lbs for the basket load.
These ebikes often feature smaller diameter wheels, which lower the center of balance in conjunction with the frame design, enhancing stability when navigating uneven surfaces or ascending hills. (Important note: smaller wheels do not equate to slower speeds on these ebikes.)
Advantages and Key Considerations of Electric Cargo Bikes
The primary advantage of an electric cargo bike is its cargo and passenger carrying capability. Key features that customers prioritize when selecting an electric cargo or utility bike include payload capacity, electric power for managing heavier loads, and customization options with accessories like baskets, bags, child seats, and passenger safety features. Affordability, quality, and price point are also significant considerations. Purchasers want assurance they are investing in a high-quality ebike that meets their needs at a reasonable price.
The RadWagon, a mid-step long-tail model, is well-regarded as a family and cargo hauling solution. It is engineered to manage substantial gear loads, powered by a 750-watt motor and offering a 350lb payload capacity. The battery provides a range exceeding 45+ miles per charge, varying with power usage, terrain, and inclines. It features five pedal assist levels, reaching speeds up to 20mph, and a half-twist throttle for extra assistance when starting with heavy loads or tackling steep hills.
The RadRunner moped-style utility ebike stands out as an innovative model in its category, offering over 300 accessory combinations for personalized passenger, cargo, comfort, and style configurations. This model also features a 750-watt motor, supporting a 300lb payload capacity and a 45+ mile battery range per charge.
Similar to standard bikes and other ebikes, both models are equipped with 7-speed gearing to fine-tune pedaling cadence relative to the route and pedal assist level.
Passenger Transport with Electric Cargo Bikes
For those considering an electric cargo bike to transport children, teenagers, or adults, both the RadWagon and RadRunner models are specifically designed to accommodate passengers. Rad Power Bikes offers a dedicated Family & Passenger ebike category providing comprehensive information to aid in selecting an ebike and accessories for passenger transport. Beyond cargo models, many standard Rad Power Bikes are compatible with child seats for younger children.
Models designed for carrying people can be fully customized for passenger safety and comfort. For instance, a water-resistant protective cover is available for the RadWagon to shield children during school commutes in inclement weather. The RadRunner moped-style ebike can be fitted with a child bike seat on the rear rack or comfort saddle, along with a passenger bar and foot pegs for comfortable and stylish passenger rides.
Hauling Cargo and Gear on Electric Cargo Bikes
Increased cargo flexibility enhances the integration of an ebike into daily routines, potentially replacing car or public transit trips while offering an enjoyable and efficient way to transport substantial loads. Customers report using their electric cargo bikes to carry everything from twin children and weekly groceries to pets, pizza orders, renovation materials, musical instruments, and even surfboards. The range of cargo possibilities is vast. Transporting heavy and bulky items necessitates a robust ebike frame coupled with custom accessories like baskets, bags, and platforms.
The Storage & Transport accessory category features products designed to attach to the bike for cargo management. This includes racks, platforms, baskets, plastic storage containers, and drink holders. Customers can further opt for waterproof bags that attach directly to racks or fit into baskets.
Larger and heavier cargo, such as a guitar and amplifier, a small refrigerator, or stacks of boxes for mailing, can be secured to platforms, baskets, and racks using cargo straps and nets. Custom carriers for pets and insulated bags for food delivery or picnics are also available.
The Rad Power Bikes Help Center provides a detailed article on Carrying Cargo: Payload Capacity and Accessories, offering further insights and guidance.
Electric Cargo Bike Reviews: Customer and Media Highlights
“Switching from a car to a bike can be daunting. What about rain? What about grocery shopping? What about date night? The RadWagon ticks all these boxes and does it affordably. It’s the ebike that could replace your car.” Men’s Journal, RadWagon
“I received the RadWagon as a Mother’s Day gift. It’s the most incredible gift I could have ever gotten. My family and I use it for everything – school, summer camp, farmers markets, grocery stores, parks, friends’ houses, you name it. The possibilities are endless! I’m losing weight and teaching my children about an active lifestyle thanks to this company.” Jamie Trotty, RadWagon Customer
“Excellent handling, low center of gravity, ample power and range even when loaded. The best quality electric assist cargo bike for the price on the market. We love it.” Matt R., RadWagon Customer
“Rad Runner Plus is a huge plus. Love the cargo bin, multiple gears, rear cargo bag, and two side bags – perfect for shopping.” Wayne, RadRunner Customer
“Awesome Cargo Bike. It carries everything I need, and the range is sufficient for trips into town and back home on a single charge.” Matthew W., RadWagon Customer
“I maximize my battery when doing Uber Eats to complete 4 to 5 trips before needing to recharge. Overall, I’m extremely satisfied knowing I can exercise and get paid simultaneously.” Tim C., RadRunner Customer
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