Electric cargo bikes combine two of the most convenient modern characteristics of cycling – motorized pedal assistance and the ability to carry a lot of luggage.
When put together, these two features turn a simple bicycle into a powerful machine that can help deliver goods, carry tools, transport equipment, and do a myriad of other things. Most families also use them as a car replacement to take kids to school, making the school run a quick and simple job.
Electric cargo bikes come in several different shapes and sizes, from normal bikes with added racks to multi-wheeled haulers that can carry a fridge. Naturally, they also have strong frames and powerful motors designed to support the extra load.
Here’s everything you need to know about these handy two-wheelers along with the top 9 models we recommend!
Best Electric Cargo Bikes
1. Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5
A fully-equipped cargo eBike, ready for hauling serious cargo
Weight: 86 lbs | Load Capacity: 375 lbs | Range: 20-60 mi
MSRP: $2,399
- 750W hub motor
- 720 Wh Battery
- Aluminum Frame
- 7-speed Shimano drivetrain
The Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5 is the brand’s cargo electric bike. It can haul 375 lbs of payload on its sturdy aluminum frame.
The 720 Wh battery keeps the 750W hub motor running for 20 to 60 miles, with 28 mph pedal assistance provided in combination with a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain and a 20 mph twist throttle.
Wide 3.3″ tires come on a set of 20″ wheels to provide plenty of traction and shock absorption. Rad Power Bikes also chose Tektro hydraulic disc brakes and integrated LED lights for safety.
The rear integrated rack can support up to 120 lbs of weight, making this a highly capable yet affordable cargo choice.
The RadWagon 5 is ideal if you have a limited budget but want all the bells and whistles of a more expensive electric cargo bike.
2. Lectric XPedition
An excellent mix of utility and versatility
Weight: 75 lb | Load Capacity: 450 lb | Range: 75-150 mi
MSRP: $1,399 – $1,699
- Class 1, 2 or 3 capabilities
- 750W, 85 Nm rear hub motor
- 672 Wh (+ another optional 672 Wh)
- Charge Time: 4-6 hours
- Aluminum Frame
The Lectric XPedition electric cargo bicycle is a marvel of engineering, able to fold up to a compact size for easy storage or transport. But don’t be fooled by its small size – the 750W rear hub motor packs a punch and all the add-ons will make your day-to-day life easier.
At 72″, it’s not much longer than a standard bike and yet it can carry a child or a solid 450 lb of cargo! Hydraulic disc brakes, a 7-speed drivetrain, and front and rear lights are just a few of the quality components that make this a winning compact cargo ebike.
Plus, you get up to 150 miles (240 km) of range out of the 672 Wh double-battery setup that charges quickly and sits neatly behind the seat tube.
The Lectric XPedition also comes with a 7-speed rear derailleur and powerful hydraulic disc brakes, both of which should be a must on electric cargo bikes.
At just $1,399, it offers one of the best bangs for the buck in this category of e-bikes.
3. Aventon Abound
An integrated cargo e-bike
Weight: 81 lb|Load Capacity: 440 lb| Range: 50 mi
MSRP: $2,199
- 750W hub motor, 80Nm
- 720Wh battery
- Charge Time: 5 hours
- 6061 Aluminum alloy frame
- Shimano 7-speed Tourney drivetrain
If you’re looking for a modern, feature-rich cargo e-bike without a huge price stage, the Aventon Abound is a solid option. Aventon is a direct-to-consumer company and is quickly becoming one of the top choices on the market.
The Abound boasts a 750W motor with 80 Nm of torque, so it will make short work of hauling up to 440 lb of weight even when riding uphill. It comes with a 720 Wh battery and a decent range of 50 miles.
The Abound also has compatibility with a front rack to add to the long rear one. In addition, you get a dual-leg kickstand, hydraulic disc brakes, lights, front fork suspension, and foot platforms for the rear passengers.
You can also equip it with a wide range of additional accessories to personalize it to your style of riding, such as a rear and front basket, a handrail, child seat, passenger seat, and so on.
All in all, this is a stable cargo e-bike that suits a family with two kids or a rider who needs to carry mixed cargo.
4. Tern GSD S10
Tern’s folding cargo bike
Weight: 74 lbs | Load Capacity: 440 lbs | Range: 26-53mi
MSRP: $5,399
- Class 1 eBike
- 250W Bosch Cargo Line Motor – 85nm Torque
- 400Wh Lithium-Ion Battery
- 6061-T6 Aluminum Frame
- Shimano Deore 10-Speed Gearing
With a massive load capacity of 440 lbs (200 kg), you can safely carry up to two kids on the back of this Tern cargo bike.
The GSD S10 is unique with its folding handlebar, stem, and telescoping seatpost. It comes fitted with a powerful 250W mid-drive motor delivering 85 Nm of torque, so you won’t have any trouble hauling a full load uphill.
The 400 Wh single battery will keep you going for up to 53 miles, with a 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain helping you along. You also get powerful 4-piston hydraulic brakes, which are an excellent feature to have when riding fully loaded at high speeds.
The Tern GSD S10 also boasts a number of high-end accessories, such as a dual-leg kickstand, front and rear lights, a wheel skirt, a wheel lock, fenders, dual-battery capacity, and even a front suspension fork.
At only 74lbs, this bike is easy enough to navigate even when fully loaded, compared to other cargo electric bikes. So if you want an electric cargo bike that is truly capable of replacing your car, don’t hesitate to get the GSD S10.
5. Trek Fetch+ 2
Trek’s compact cargo e-bike
MSRP: $6,000
- Class 1 eBike
- 250W Bosch Performance Line Cargo – 85Nm Torque
- 500Wh Lithium-Ion Battery
- 6061-T6 Aluminum Frame
- Shimano Deore 10-Speed Gearing
Trek’s cargo e-bike is a high-end option with premium components and a high price to match. The payload capacity of 440lb includes rider and cargo (up to 175lb of cargo), which is more than enough for most families’ needs.
The 20″ wheels and a rigid fork make for a slightly bumpy ride but create a lower center of gravity and the front end stable for better control while the bike is loaded.
The Fetch+ 2 can fit two kids’ seats conveniently on the rack or a regular seat, bars, and footrests for older children. It comes fitted with a powerful 250W Bosch mid-drive motor delivering 85Nm of torque for hauling heavy cargo and tackling steep inclines.
The 500Wh battery will keep you going for up to 65 miles on a single charge, with a 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain helping you along.
If you want premium quality, powerful Bosch electronics, and a high load capacity, the Trek Fetch+ 2 is the best choice for you.
6. Blix Packa Genie
An affordable cargo e-bike with dual battery capacity
Weight: 67 or 74.5 lb | Load Capacity: 400 lbs | Range: 45 or 80mi
MSRP: $2,099 – 2,499
- Class 2 e-bike
- 750W hub motor – 90Nm Torque
- 1 or 2 614Wh batteries
- 6061-T6 Aluminum frame
- Shimano Acera 7-speed gearing
The Blix Packa Genie is an affordable hub-drive cargo e-bike with a high-power motor, dual-battery capacity ($400 extra for two batteries), and the brand’s modular accessory compatibility.
The single 614Wh battery will keep you going for up to 45 miles and with two batteries you can expect up to 80. With 90Nm of torque from the 750W motor, you can be confident of tackling any gradient with a loaded bike.
A basic 7-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain provides a decent gearing range but lacks high gears. Thankfully, the Packa Genie has hydraulic disc brakes, but they are from a lesser-known brand so the durability is questionable.
Other notable components that add to the value of this bike include the puncture-resistant tires, USB charging, and LED lights with brake light activation.
The Blix Packa Genie may be less expensive than some big-brand models included on this list, but it still offers exceptional value for the money, especially for families wishing to do grocery hauls and school runs.
7. Specialized Globe Haul LT
A spacious and modern electric cargo bike
Weight: 88 lb, 3.0 oz | Load Capacity: 441 lbs | Range: 60 mi
MSRP: $3,500
- Class 3 eBike
- 700W rear hub motor
- 772 Wh Lithium-Ion Battery
- 176 lb rear rack capacity
- microShift Advent 9-speed rear derailleur
The Specialized Globe Haul LT is one of the most attractive cargo bikes on the market, with excellent accessories and a high maximum payload! This gives you ample room to pack it with six panniers, two child seats, or a combination of both — whatever suits your needs best!
The strong aluminum frame means you can load a full 441 lb on this beast with no worries of frame failure. You also get a 9-speed microShift Advent drivetrain to help you haul that weight uphill and Tektro 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes to help you slow down on the descents.
On top of that, the Specialized Globe Haul LT has a 700W rear hub motor that will assist you up to 28 mph, paired with a 772 Wh capacity that provides battery life for 60 miles of range.
When it comes to accessories, the Globe Haul LT is equipped with fenders, lights, a center-mount kickstand, a bell, and even a wheel skirt.
So if you want a reliable and smartly designed electric cargo bike from Specialized, one of the world’s best bike brands, definitely consider this model. You can also check out the Specialized Globe Haul ST if you want a more compact model.
8. Tern Quick Haul P9
Folding electric cargo bike
Weight: 50 lbs. 11.2 oz. | Load Capacity: 331 lb | Range: up to 32-62 mi
MSRP: $3,299
- Class 3 eBike
- Bosch Performance Sport 250W, 65 Nm motor
- 400 Wh Lithium-Ion Battery
- 9-Speed Gearing
The Quick Haul P9 electric cargo bike from Tern Bikes offers the best value for money that we can find on the market. With a powerful 250W, 65 Nm mid-drive motor, long-range battery, and a 331 lb load capacity, you get everything you need.
With adjustable, foldable handlebars, 2.15″ Schwable tires, upright geometry, and comfortable touchpoints, this bike is a joy to ride. Load it up with a range of accessories, including a kids’ seat, baskets, or panniers to go grocery shopping, take your kids to soccer practice, or go on a family picnic.
It fits riders between 5’3″ – 6’5″ tall, and the bike weighs around 50 lb which is lightweight for a cargo e-bike. Though, keep in mind that this is a compact cargo ebike with a slightly lower maximum load capacity than some bigger models on our list.
Whatever your fitness level or cargo requirements, the Tern Quick Haul P9 has got your back.
9. Yuba FastRack
Best heavy-duty electric cargo bike
Weight: 76 lbs | Load Capacity: 440 lbs | Range: N/A
MSRP: $4,000
- Class 1 eBike
- Shimano Steps E7000 – 500Wh Battery
- Rider height: 4 ft. 9 in – 6 ft. 2 in
- Magura Hydraulic Disk Brakes
- Shimano 10-Speed rear derailleur
Yuba makes some heavy-duty cargo bikes, but the FastRack is a lighter, more agile model that can still handle heavy loads.
The large rear rack is compatible with a range of accessories so you can easily carry your cargo. Optionally, you can increase its versatility by fitting it with up to two child seats and take your kids to school or on a family trip.
A 250W Shimano Steps E7000 mid-drive motor is powered by a 500 Wh battery that will help you get moving up to 20 mph. It also includes a Shimano 10-speed drivetrain to help you pedal more smoothly and maximize your range.
Finally, the FastRack has wide 20″ x 2.4″ tires that allow you to tackle any terrain and surface with traction and stability. You also get excellent accessories, such as dual-leg kickstand, front rack, rear rack foot support, fenders, lights, and so much more.
So if you need a compact cargo electric bike with excellent capabilities, the Yuba FastRack is the perfect blend of these two worlds.
Electric Cargo Bike Buying Guide
Electric cargo bikes come in different shapes and sizes and not all of them will meet your needs equally well.
Here’s a quick buying guide that explains what different types of cargo bikes exist and what important features you should look out for on your next one.
Types of Cargo Bikes to Consider
Cargo bicycles are typically split into two main types: Longtail cargo bikes (with a long rear rack) and Front box cargo bikes (with a large box on the front). But there are a few subtypes in between that you should know about as well.
Bakfiets / Long Johns
The bakfiets are the ultimate luggage carriers, perfect for those big jobs that need more than just a rear rack or pannier bags.
The massive bucket at the front of bakfiets can carry large items like furniture, boxes, and even building materials.
These cargo bikes originated in the Netherlands where a lot of families and businesses use them today to transport kids or personal and business goods.
Longtail Cargo Bikes
A longtail cargo bike has a long frame with an extended rear rack that can carry multiple pairs of panniers or two child seats.
They make excellent children carriers when one or more seats are fitted on the back and can be used to combine carrying child seats with panniers to meet all family needs.
Compact Cargo Bikes
Compact cargo bikes look similar to longtail cargo bikes in design but have a smaller rear rack and a lower maximum carrying capacity.
They are ideal for smaller families with one child and a shorter grocery shopping list, as well as urban commuters or delivery workers.
Cargo Tricycles
Cargo tricycles are the heavy loaders of the cargo bike world, fitted with luggage bins so big they need three wheels to stay upright.
Cargo trikes usually have two wheels at the front with a big box fitted in between, which makes it easier to maneuver when loaded to the brim. Though there are some models with one front wheel as well.
These bikes are typically used by delivery companies and post office workers in busy cities with heavy traffic in Europe.
Electric Cargo Bike Must-Have Features
The Specialized Haul LT is a long-tail e-cargo bike that checks all the boxes: four-piston hydraulic disc brakes, high-power electronics, dual-leg kickstand, and multi-speed drivetrain.
Electric cargo bikes are specific in the sense that they are designed to be heavy and slow, contrary to almost all other types of bicycles that focus on performance.
That’s why the list of priorities and must-have features you should look for when shopping around is a bit different.
This is what we’d make sure our next electric cargo bike had:
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The best cargo ebikes on our list can carry up to 440 lb of cargo, which is a lot of additional weight. That’s why hydraulic disc brakes (or at least mechanical) are a must. Rim brakes don’t have enough stopping power to slow you down or bring you to a stop on a descent or in case of emergencies. The best scenario is to get a model with four-piston hydraulic disc brakes for maximum braking potential.
- Powerful Motor and Battery: Cargo bike-specific motors typically have more power and torque because of higher demands created by the additional weight. The last thing you would want to do is have to pedal hard while fully loaded to manage a steep incline or get going again at a traffic light stop. If possible, look for a model with a torque sensor for a more natural ride feel.
- Multi-Speed Drivetrain: Having a wide-range cassette with multiple gears will help you lower the load on the motor, improve the bike’s mileage, and ride more efficiently, especially at low speeds and when climbing. If possible, avoid cheap electric cargo bikes with single-speed drivetrains.
- Double-Leg Kickstand: Last but not least, a sturdy double-leg kickstand is an absolute must that will make your life a lot easier when loading and unloading the bike, taking kids on and off the bike, and even mounting and dismounting the bike yourself.
FAQs
What is a freight bicycle?
A freight bicycle is technically just another term for a cargo bike, although it would usually be used to describe large bikes like bakfiets, large cargo tricycles, or cycle trucks used by delivery companies, post offices, and other small businesses.
How much does an electric cargo bike cost?
Decent electric cargo bikes usually go for between $2,000 and $6,000. For example, e-cargo models by Surly Bikes cost between $4,000 and $6,000. However, the RadWagon and Blix Packa offer good value for less than $2,000.
Are bucket bikes safe?
Bucket bikes are safe and stable even at high speeds, but their overall safety depends on a lot of factors, including the traffic conditions and the experience of the rider. All cargo bikes are generally very stable thanks to the low center of gravity provided by smaller wheels.