What you need to know about the electric cargo bike

The electric cargo bike is increasingly popular for families and professionals, it is an ecological and practical alternative to the car.

What you need to know about the electric cargo bike, making the right choice of a cargo bike to get around town with children, to do your shopping, to transport equipment, the reasons for choosing an electric cargo bike are therefore diverse and varied.

In this content we will detail this means of transport which is on the rise and find out why you should choose an electric cargo bike.

What is an electric cargo bike?

An electric cargo bike is an electrically assisted bicycle, equipped with a motor, a battery and assistance, three components that other types of electric bikes are also equipped with.

The cargo bike is distinguished by its ability to transport children , animals, equipment, depending on the model you choose. What you need to know about the electric cargo bike, what is a cargo bike:

Definition and characteristics

What is a cargo VAE?

• The electric cargo bike is therefore a bike equipped with a loading space for transporting children, shopping or equipment.
• This bike is equipped with electric assistance to make pedaling easier, even with a heavy load.

The different types of electric cargo bikes:

Then, you should know that the electric cargo bike comes in different types, namely:

• Longtails are extended models that often have a luggage rack for carrying loads or people; they are similar to a classic bicycle.
• The two-wheelers, often made with a loading area at the front, are equipped with a transport box of good capacity.
• Tricycles which are wider than the models seen previously, often equipped with two wheels at the front or rear with a greater load capacity.
• Electrically assisted cargo bikes (EABs) are equipped with an electric motor that makes it easier to travel with a heavy load and to easily transport one or two children depending on the model selected.

Why choose an electric cargo bike?

Choosing an electric cargo bike is often for different reasons, here are the most common:

A sustainable alternative to the car

• Ecological: reduction of CO₂ emissions.
• Economical: lower fuel and maintenance costs than a car.

A convenient means of transportation

• Easy transport of children for home-school trips.
• Ideal for professionals (deliveries, craftsmen, traders).
• Access to city centers and cycle paths prohibited to cars.

Comfort and safety

• Stability and load capacity suitable for families and professionals.
• Customization options: rain hoods, child seats, secure storage.

How to choose the right electric cargo bike?

The electric cargo bike expands the scope of travel for families and changes their daily lives. In order to choose the cargo bike model that suits you, you must consider what will determine your choice.

The usefulness you will have of your bike, to transport your child to school or to transport equipment. For a good alternative to be able to move around more freely while avoiding the traffic jams that are increasingly frequent in the city.

For an excellent ecological alternative to the car.
Of course, depending on the routes you plan to take, your bike will need to be adapted to the configuration of the terrain you will have to cover.

If the route is flat, the power of the bike will be less, on the other hand if your route includes fairly steep climbs, you will need to rely on good motor power for your electric cargo bike.
Here are the main criteria to consider when making your choice:

Load capacity and autonomy

• What load do you want to transport? (children, equipment, shopping, etc.)
• Average autonomy: between 50 and 100 km depending on the battery and the engine.

Engine type and electric assistance

• Mid-drive motor: more power and better balance.
• Hub motor: cheaper, but less efficient for climbs.

Handling and comfort

• Comparison between two-wheeler and three-wheeler depending on needs.
• Ergonomic frame for better stability.
• Suspension and braking adapted to the load.

Awards and financial assistance

• Average price: between €2,500 and €7,000 depending on the model.
• Local aid and subsidies for the purchase of an electric cargo bike.

How to ride an electric cargo bike?

As for how to ride a cargo bike ? You should know that riding a cargo bike is not very difficult, however, you must take precautions and adopt the good habits that are recommended for such a means of transport.

Naturally, you need to get used to it, so you have to get used to it over the hours of driving, little by little!

Getting started with the cargo bike

• The electric cargo bike has differences compared to a classic electric bike, so you have to consider the weight, the center of gravity, the balance, you have to adopt your driving style according to the weight carried. A grip is necessary for the cargo bike.
• You need to do tests when empty and then with a load to gradually get to grips with your electric cargo bike.

Safety Tips

• In terms of safety, you must wear a helmet, and you also need a very robust anti-theft device.
• It is important to adapt your speed, especially when cornering and going downhill; with a cargo bike, you should always take corners slowly.
• The condition of the brakes and tires should be checked regularly; with a cargo ship, always use the brakes gently.

Transporting children safely

• When transporting children, it is mandatory to use suitable seats equipped with seat belts.
• In case of bad weather, investing in a rain cover is essential when purchasing your electric cargo bike, it is an option that should not be one!

Conclusion

Riding an electric cargo bike is becoming more and more common in our cities. Before becoming a cargo bike rider, it is always important to be aware of the regulations that apply at the national level and also at the level of your municipality of residence.

You should also find out about the aid available, in France, aid is available, so you should find out about it. The electric cargo bike is a practical and sustainable solution for families and professionals.

Once you have found your model, according to your use, according to your budget, you will have the impression of driving in total freedom, but never forget that the road is never safe and that caution is essential.

We invite you to discover our models and our range of electric cargo bikes on BatooBike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the criteria for choosing an electric bike?

Choose your electric bike according to its use, depending on the type of route and its characteristics (distance, terrain).

The cyclist's posture preferences (relaxed, dynamic, sporty position). Equipment needs according to the things carried. Affinities with a brand, a type of design...

What power does it take to charge an electric bike?

750 watts is generally the average power for a good electric bike. The power is between 250 and 750 watts.

Bikes with motors in this range are capable of reaching speeds of up to 25 kilometers per hour and can easily cope with hills and other difficult terrain.

How to ride a cargo bike?

The cargo bike is driven like any other bike except that other criteria must be considered, particularly in the case of loads.

You have to take turns slowly, brake gently, a cargo bike is driven like a normal bike, the handlebars are handled in the same way, but for example on a cargo bike, you have to look in front of you and not at the front wheel.

Why buy a cargo bike?

Using a cargo bike combines several advantages, it allows you to make significant savings in the long term compared to the cost of a car.

The cargo bike has the practical advantages of a classic bicycle with the transport capabilities of a small car, it helps fight air pollution and is currently one of the best alternatives to using a car in the city.