Cargo bikes are the ultimate replacement bike option for a car. If you live in a cycle friendly neighborhood where you don’t have to travel very far to do shopping and run the kids to school, these types of bikes might be the perfect choice rather than a car.
Here at Cycle Travel Overload we are more about bikepacking and bike touring. But we still love the idea of cargo biking with the fam. After all it is still “cycle travelling”. And with some of the cargo bike options out there. It can make total sense to ditch the car and save the cents or dollars.
When I first got introduced to cargo bikes I was familiar with the longtail options like the Surly Big Fat Dummy. But as I have discovered there is a few different types and options of cargo bikes out there. With some great features and options for those looking to specifically use to transport the kids.
Honesty I am hooked on the idea of cargo bikes for a young family. It is such a great way to get kids on bikes early and get them excited from all the fun and adventures they can have from such a young age.
Why A Cargo Bike?
There are other bike transportation options out there then just a cargo bike. You can get a trailer for a bike that you might already have. Which is less costly then buying a cargo bike. Or you can get a child bike seat that mounts on the bike like a rack would. But these options are probably best if you are just getting started and before you know if your kids will like being on the bike with you. But if you are looking for more when it comes to transporting your kids then a cargo bike is the ultimate options. But why are they preferable?
- Perfect vehicle to run errands when you don’t have a car. They are so versatile when it comes to carting gear for shopping, visiting the market or taking the kids to school. That extra carrying capacity is why they are so versatile.
- They are still great bike options for those without a family either. Young city-dwellers can benefit from them too. As it is becoming more trendy for youngsters to live that urban lifestyle. And as urban density increases, the use of cars for individual transportation and hauling becomes more difficult and not smart for the health of the environment.
- They are a good fit for everyone. With some cargo bikes offering electric assists it makes it more open for people that would otherwise have trouble riding a bike that hauls gear.
- The type of stuff and weight for the matter varies and offers transportation solutions for a range of things. Some cargo bikes can carry up to 800 pounds (363 kilograms). While there are some very creative hauling ideas hout there while using a cargo bike.
- Rather than a child’s seat mounted to your bike. A cargo bike is adaptable for cycling with babies all the way up to big kids. So the initial investment pays off for years to come.
- When you consider the cost of a cargo bike compared to a car it is a lot cheaper.
Types of Cargo Bikes
There are about three of the most common cargo bikes; longtail, long john and front-load trike.
Longtail
Are similar to a normal bike in the way they ride. But have a extra long rear. The extended rack can be used in a variety of ways. For child seats or large panniers bags. You can also use a ‘cage’ to transport the kids. These type of bikes a generally lightest and the most agile to handle, allowing 1 to 3 kids to ride along with you.
Long John
This type of bike has the cargo area at the front of the rider with a linking steering system, connecting the steering to the front wheel. These are more common in European countries with vibrant biking culture, like the Netherlands. They can be heavy and more difficult to pedal uphill. But gives you so much storage options for carry many kids and gear. These are used as carrier bicycles for bike delivers as well due to the reason of them being able to carry so much stuff.
Front-Load Trike
Again these bikes can be rather heavy, but they are a good option for carting the kids around town. Very similar to a long john style cargo bike but with three wheels. But the load area generally sits over the top of the front wheel.
Best Cargo Bikes For Families
In no particular order as some of the best and most recommended cargo bikes for hauling all the gear you need and the kids!
Yuba Mundo Lux Cargo Bike
Made from a stiff steel frame the Mundo Lux provides the ultimate in maneuverability and control, which means it is tough with the ability to carry heavy loads. Priced at $1,800.00 (REI.com)
Yuba Boda Boda Step-Through Bike
The Boda Boda is fairly easy to ride, with the help from the gearing it is adequate for hills. And you barely notice the passenger on the back if they are somewhat still. With easy mounting and dis-mounting the Boda step-through frame is ideal for those riders over 4 ft. 9 in. and under 5 ft. 10 in. Priced at $1,198.93 (LIMITED TIME ONLY) at REI.com
Amsterdam Bicycles Cargo Classic Long
Featuring the spacious, full-size cargo box up front, allowing you to fit all the shopping you need. It has that classic look, with the black Schwalbe Marathon tires, a rear rack and stainless steel fenders. With a reliable internal gear hub and the four point stand to safely let your children get in or out. Priced from $2,949 at amsterdam-bicycle.com
Best Electric Cargo Bike 2020
If you think you will benefit from the assist of an electric bike then these are some options to consider.
Yuba Electric Boda Boda Step-Through Bike
An urban people mover with a longtail design. Featuring pedal assist that delivers the perfect amount of power for a natural feel under your feet. Steering remains stable and nimble even when carry up to the max load of 220 lbs. of kids or cargo—plus rider weight. Priced at $3,200.00 (REI.com) They also have the step-over option.
Tern GSD S10 Electric Bike
Tern make some really great folding bikes. Despite being the same length as a normal e-bike you have the capabilities to carry 2 kids or up to 400 lbs of cargo. One the biggest selling points for this bike is the folding technology which compacts to a third of its full size in only 10 seconds. So you can put it in the back of the car. It has some other amazing selling points, like being able to store it in a up-right position for city living. The 20″ wheels positions the kids lower to the ground which helps with feeling safer and better handling. Priced at $3,999.00 (REI.com)
Yuba Spicy Curry Bosch Electric Bike
You get a instant pedaling assisted power with the efficient Bosch eBike system and a low center of gravity that lets you churn your way uphill. it must be said that cargo bikes with allround 20″ tires don’t handle like a normal bike. But as this bike has only a 20″ in the rear. Which makes it a pleasure to ride as it handles like a normal bike. It has the ability to get you up 9% gradients with a full load comfortably. The Spicy Curry is capable of hauling 300 lbs in addition to the rider. Priced at $4,500.00 (REI.com)
Yuba Supermarché Bosch
The aluminum step over frame is sturdy with a built in rear rack with side loaders. Rolling on some Schwalbe Big Apple 20″ x 2.15″ tires. Powered by the Bosch Performance CX 250W, 36V Powerpack 500. At Yuba’s website you get a handful of other add on features to improve and customize your ride to suit your families needs. Prices starting from $5,500.00
Surly Big Fat Dummy
This is the bike that I was personally looking at in this cargo bike category. As it is still a great option for towing the kids around town on. It also makes a exception adventure bike. With the fat tires you get that added suppleness which is key when carry cargo. But it is also a great bike to take one a sandy adventure across the Australia outback. Well at least that is what I intent to use it for. Priced at $3,025 or you can get the 2018 model for $2899
Butchers & Bicycles MK-1E
This is not your average trike, it is made with speed and maneuverability in mind. The cargo bike features the patented ‘Built To Tilt™’ driving system and the unrivaled Bosch Performance Line eBike system. Made from a lightweight aluminium frame. Super tough and durable box with a easy to access door for the kids. The ultimate replacement for a car. Priced From €6.699
Urban Arrow Family
A classy looking long john cargo bike perfect for the family. As the name suggests. The light frame, electric pedal assistance and stepless gear shifting guarantee a very pleasant riding experience. With a bunch of other Family accessory options. Priced from $5,950
About The Author
