In a world where ecology and urban mobility are becoming increasingly central to our lives, the electric cargo bike is emerging as an essential solution for combining these two imperatives. With a plethora of high-end models available in 2024, choosing the ideal travel companion is becoming a real challenge. Between technical innovations, increased transport capacities, and ecological considerations, how do you navigate this jungle of possibilities? In this article, we will attempt to guide you through the diversity of options, highlighting the essential features of the best electric cargo bikes. Whether you're looking to simplify your daily commute, share more time with family without a car, or transport loads for your business, dive into our 2024 comparison of high-end cargo bikes.
Go directly to the section that interests you:
Presentation of cargo bike models
Technical characteristics, prices, uses: our Top 3 rankings
Top 3 / Engine power and range | Top 3 / Transmission system | Top 3 / Loads and passengers | Top 3 / Most affordable | Most French
Comparison criteria
To provide an informed comparison of the best high-end electric cargo bikes in 2024, we selected key criteria that reflect users' main concerns. These criteria allow us to thoroughly evaluate each model based on key aspects of performance, comfort, safety, and overall value. Here are the criteria used for our comparison:
The price
Initial price is the primary consideration for most buyers. We compare the starting prices of each model to provide insight into the initial investment required, while also considering the added value each bike offers in terms of features and durability.
Length and width
Bicycle dimensions, particularly overall length and box width, are crucial for assessing urban maneuverability and load capacity. These measurements directly influence the bicycle's ability to navigate tight spaces and its ability to carry passengers or cargo.
Engine power and battery capacity
Motor power and battery capacity determine the bike's performance in terms of electric assistance, range, and hill climbing ability. More powerful motors and larger batteries are preferable for long and/or heavily loaded rides.
Calculated average autonomy
The average range, which is very difficult to calculate (because it depends largely on use, load, elevation, temperature, etc.), gives an indication of the distance the bike can travel on a single charge. This is an important criterion for users who need to cover long distances without recharging.
Payload and passengers
Payload and the number of passengers you can carry are key factors in choosing a cargo bike that's best suited to each user's specific needs. Payload capacity, which includes the weight of the rider, passengers, and cargo, varies significantly from model to model, reflecting their design and intended use. These are also essential criteria when choosing a cargo bike for families and professionals.
Transmission and braking
The quality of the transmission and braking system directly influences the driving experience and safety. Smooth transmission and efficient braking are essential for everyday use, especially in varied urban conditions.
Options and accessories
The availability and variety of options and accessories (such as child seats, storage systems, and weather protection) allow the bike to be customized to the specific needs of each user, thus adding value to the basic model.
Presentation of cargo bike models
Here's a selection of high-end electric cargo bikes in this comparison! Prices observed in March 2024; prices are indicative and subject to change.
Galian the Formidable
Price: from €9,230
French cargo bike equipped with a Valeo 48V 130nm motor, a 630Wh battery and a Valeo Cyclee transmission incorporating an automatic gearbox. Its length is 249cm and its load capacity is 250kg.
Yuba Super Cargo CL
Starting price: €5,500 (with the box)
The French-Californian Yuba Supercargo CL features a 36V 85Nm Bosch Cargo Line motor, a 500Wh battery, and a Shimano Deore 10V transmission system. It measures 260cm in length and has a maximum load capacity of 200kg.
Carqon Cruise
Starting price: €5,499
Dutch cargo bike, equipped with a Bosch cargo line 36V 85Nm motor, a 400wh battery and a derailleur-type transmission system in its basic version (Enviolo Pro gearing optional). Its length is 260cm and its maximum load capacity is 175kg.
The configuration with a 500wh battery and an Enviolo transmission costs €5,800.
Trek Fetch+ 4
Starting price: €6,999
This bike, originally from the United States, is equipped with a Bosch Cargo Line 36V 85Nm motor and a Bosch PowerTube 750wh battery. The transmission is Enviolo Pro. Its length is 265cm and its maximum load capacity is 175kg.
Urban Arrow Family
Starting price: €4,999
Customizable Dutch cargo bike. In its basic version, it is equipped with a Bosch Active Line 50Nm motor, a Power Line 400wh battery, and an Enviolo Pro transmission. Its length is 274cm and its maximum load capacity is 220kg.
The 4-child version with the Bosch Cargo Line motor (85Nm) and 500wh battery costs €7,020.
Twelve HETA Cycles
Starting price: €6,868
French cargo bike equipped with a Shimano EP8 Cargo 36V 85nm motor and a 500wh battery and a 10-speed chain drivetrain. Its length is 275cm and its maximum load capacity is 235kg.
The EP8 500Wh Enviolo version with belt costs €7,218.
Riese & Müller Packster 70 Automatic
Starting price: €7,259
German model equipped with a Bosch cargo line 36V 85nm motor, a 625wh PowerTube battery and an Enviolo Automatic transmission. Its length is 249cm and its maximum load capacity is 155kg. The version with child seats starts at €7460.
Download the comparative technical grid below:
Technical characteristics, prices, uses: our Top 3 rankings
Here are our different rankings based on technical performance criteria and uses.
Top 3 / Engine power and autonomy
Motors are the beating heart of electric cargo bikes , providing essential thrust for smooth and effortless rides. Find more information in our dedicated article on this subject: " Torque and motor power of an electric bike: what you need to know "
• 1: The Galian Formidable stands out with its 48V, 130Nm VALEO motor, offering the greatest power in the comparison. Its 630Wh battery also ensures excellent autonomy.
• 2: The Riese & Müller Packster 70 Automatic offers a flexible configuration with a battery of up to 2x625Wh (if dual battery option), guaranteeing remarkable autonomy suitable for various uses, supported by a 36V, 85Nm Bosch motor.
• 3: Twelve Heta Enviolo and Trek Fetch+ 4. Twelve with its Shimano 36V, 85Nm motor and its relatively light weight (45kg) and Trek Fetch+4 with its Bosch 36V 85 Nm and 750 Wh motor offer a high-performance balance between power and autonomy, adapted to the daily needs of urban transport.
Top 3 / Transmission system
A cargo bike's drivetrain is crucial because it directly affects ride smoothness, ease of handling heavy loads, and pedaling efficiency in various urban and road conditions. Here are the three drivetrains that stand out in our ranking.
• 1: Galian Formidable : Valeo Cyclee system with Integrated Automatic Transmission . The Formidable, with its innovative Valeo Cyclee system offering 130Nm of engine torque and an integrated automatic gearbox, takes the top spot in our ranking. This system allows for automatic and smooth adaptation to pedaling cadence and road conditions, providing a comfortable and efficient driving experience.
• 2: Riese & Müller Packster 70 Automatic : Enviolo Automatic system with Gates Carbon Drive Belt . The Enviolo automatic system, coupled with a Gates Carbon Drive belt, offers a smooth driving experience thanks to its continuously variable transmission. This configuration reduces the need for maintenance, thanks to the absence of a traditional chain, but also ensures intuitive gear changing.
• 3: Twelve Cycles Heta: Shimano EP8 Enviolo Automatic System with Gates Carbon Drive Belt . The Twelve Cycles Heta uses a 10-speed Shimano Deore transmission system, renowned for its precision and reliability, combined with a belt for a quieter ride and less maintenance. This choice offers a wide range of speeds suitable for different terrains and loads.
Top 3 / Maximum load capacity and number of passengers
A key factor for professionals and families! When considering a bike's load capacity, check the bike's maximum load capacity (i.e., the total weight supported by the bike's structure: weight of the rider + passengers + cargo) and also consider the load capacity per seating and/or storage space (the maximum weight supported by the saddle, the rear seat or rear rack, and the front box). Here are the 3 bikes that stand out based on these criteria:
1: Galian Formidable : It stands out for its load capacity of 250 kg, allowing it to carry up to five people and making it a preferred choice for family transport needs. This model also stands out from its competitors thanks to its optimal weight distribution, with the capacity of each part of the bike – longtail, saddle and front box – to support up to 120 kg. The Formidable thus offers a multitude of passenger configurations, including the transport of up to 4 children . But this cargo bike is above all the only one in our comparison to be able to carry 2 adults and 2 children.
2: Twelve Heta : With a load capacity of 235 kg, three children can be transported and a large front box that can support 100 kg, this electric caro bike offers a significant load capacity for large families. In addition, the rear luggage rack can hold up to 35 kg.
3: Trek Fetch+ 4 : Despite a slightly lower load capacity than its direct competitors (175kg), the Fetch 4+ offers the possibility of transporting up to 5 children (children under 20kg). This bike is therefore an interesting choice for large families with young children.
Top 3 / Most affordable
Each bike has different prices with several options for motorization, battery capacity, and accessories. The prices indicated are based on the most "high-end" configuration of each model and are therefore subject to change depending on available inventory, seasonal offers, and retailer margins.
Prices observed on 03/15/2024
1: Yuba SuperCargo CL: with a price of around €5,500, the Yuba is undoubtedly the most affordable bike in our comparison.
2: Carqon Cruise E2: with its 500Wh battery configuration, its Bosh 85Nm engine and Enviolo transmission, the price of the Carqon is around €5,800.
3: Trek Fetch+ 4 Enviolo and Urban Arrow Familiy: With the same configuration and an observed price of €7,000, these two bikes are fighting for third place on the podium.
The most French
If you are looking for a cargo bike with a strong French imprint, both in terms of design and manufacturing, 2 models stand out: The Douze Cycles Hêta and the Formidable de Galian .
Choosing a French bike is an ethical and sustainable purchase. Choosing made in France supports reindustrialization, production chains, and jobs in France, as well as being an environmentally friendly choice!
In summary: assess your needs, compare and try!
In the quest for the ideal cargo bike, our comparison reveals a wide spectrum of options, reflecting the constantly evolving and diverse market. Whether for robustness, technological innovation, ride comfort, or even commitment to sustainable and local manufacturing practices, each model makes its unique contribution to the cargo bike ecosystem. The technical differences between models underscore the importance of choosing a bike that suits not only your individual needs but also your personal values. Given this diversity, we strongly recommend trying out several models before making a final choice. This not only allows you to experience the handling and comfort of each bike in real-life situations, but also to verify its suitability for your intended uses. Ultimately, this comparison seeks not only to identify the "best" cargo bike, but rather to highlight the many ways in which urban mobility can be reimagined and enriched, thus encouraging a more informed and personalized choice for each individual.
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