Best Electric Cargo Bikes of 2024
Searching for the best electric cargo bikes? You’re in the right place. From sturdy designs optimised for heavy loads to compact models ideal for bustling city streets, our in-store experts cut through the noise to deliver clear insights on the best electric cargo bikes to simplify your daily hauls.
Our Featured E-cargo Bikes
Given the extensive array of choices, selecting the perfect electric cargo bike can be challenging, so our handpicked list of top electric cargo bikes of 2024 aims to make life easier and highlight each bike’s distinct features:
Best Overall Cargo: Specialized Porto - a budget-friendly choice with a good cargo capacity and quality accessories.
Best Front Load Cargo Bike: Riese and Muller Load 75 - known for its superior cargo capacity, comfort, and easy manoeuvrability.
Best Cargo Bikes for Cargo: Riese and Muller Packster- prioritising ample cargo space and family safety.
Best for Everyday Use & for Cargo Bike Accessories: Tern GSD - versatile bike with a wide range of accessories.
Best Compact Cargo Bike:Tern HSD - a compact, child-friendly bike with good accessories.
Specialized Porto: Best Overall Cargo
Price: Starting £5,500
The Specialized Porto is a trustworthy partner for city commutes. Its removable battery is convenient for indoor charging, and the customisation options like foot platforms, footpegs, safety rails, passenger seats, and cargo-carrying accessories like the Front rack, Coolcave pannier and side bag add to its appeal.
Upon mounting the Specialized Porto, its features are instantly noticeable:
Low standover height and stable design
Front and rear racks capable of carrying 20kg and 60kg respectively
Integrated wheel lock and Turbo Lock System for peace of mind
Garmin Radar system to alert of approaching vehicles from behind
Specifications:
Total load capacity: 200 kg (including rider)
Front rack limit: 20 kg
Rear rack limit: 60 kg
Pros:
Good value for money
Decent range and powerful motor
Quality accessories
Cons:
No suspension on the front
No weather protection kit for the passenger (yet)
Riese and Muller Load 75: Best Front Load Cargo bike
Price: Starting £7,000
Riding the Riese and Muller Load 75 is a joy. It manages the weight of any cargo deftly, impressing with its balance and effortless handling, even at slower speeds.
The front-mounted cargo box is a standout feature, providing ample space for groceries, and even kids! The full suspension system ensures a comfortable ride, and the low gear settings coupled with a powerful electric motor are highly effective on steep inclines. However, its size takes a bit of getting used to, especially in tight spaces.
Specifications:
Maximum cargo rating: 60 kg
Total weight support: 200 kg (including bike and rider)
Rear rack capacity: 25 kg
Pros:
Room for 3 children, or lots of stuff
Highly customisable specification
Good range of accessories, including child seats
Comfortable ride
Easy to manoeuvre
Cons:
High price
Large size
Riese and Muller Packster: Best bikes for cargo
Starting Price: £6,000
At first glance, the Riese and Muller Packster’s size and weight makes it stand out, but once you start riding, this spacious cargo area pleasantly surprises. It can easily accommodate weekly groceries, and has enough room for two kids.
The comfort ride is another plus point, while the decent range means you can enjoy longer trips without worrying about battery life. The handling isn’t as smooth compared to the Load 75, but the Packster is a certainly a reliable companion for carrying cargo.
Specifications:
Total carrying capacity: 200 kg
Cargo space: Up to 375 litres with additional accessories
Pros:
Good cargo space with option to have a hard, lockable cover
Comfortable ride
Decent range
Cons:
Large size and weight
Handling not as good as the Load 75
Tern GSD: Best for Everyday Use & Accessories
Starting Price: £5,100
The Tern GSD ride is the ideal blend when it comes to an electric bike, providing the usefulness of a cargo bike, partnered with the comfort of a standard bike. It has a versatile range of accessories which make it perfect for everyday urban commutes.
The Tern GSD's saddle and handlebar stem are quickly adjustable and the Bosch Performance Line CX motor, coupled with an optional dual-battery system, ensures effortless uphill rides and a smooth ride overall. The Magura hydraulic disc brakes ensure excellent stopping power and control, and the GSD’s unmatched versatility and compact design make it an excellent choice of electric cargo bike.
Specifications:
Total load capacity: 200 kg (including rider)
Pros:
Good range of accessories
Comfortable ride
Room for 2 children
Option to have a 2nd battery
Cons:
Weight
Price
Tern HSD: Best Compact Cargo bike
Price: £5,000
Tern’s HSD is another remarkable model. Its features include:
Compact structure
Designed for children
Perfect fit for city-dwelling families
Comes with accessories that enhance its functionality
These features make it a great option for families living in the city. The bike’s Bosch Performance Line motor makes tackling hills a breeze, and the upright riding position is super comfortable, even on long rides. The Tern HSD remains a solid option for those seeking a compact, child-friendly electric cargo bike.
Specifications:
Total load capacity: 180 kg (including rider)
Pros:
Compact size
Room for 1 child
Good range of accessories
Cons:
Limited range
Choosing the Best Electric Cargo Bike For You
Selecting the best electric cargo bike goes beyond opting for the cheapest model or the one boasting the most features. It involves finding a bike that aligns with your unique needs and preferences, be it for goods transportation, daily commuting, or school runs.
Different E-Cargo Bike Styles
Electric cargo bikes come in various styles, each with its unique features and benefits.
You have rear loading electric cargo bikes that are agile and lightweight, with cargo or passenger space on an extended tail section. These are great for those who value manoeuvrability and ease of handling.
On the other hand, front-loader electric cargo bikes, feature a front wheel that’s moved forward with a low box in front of the rider for stability and ease of loading.
Electric Cargo Bike Battery Range and Motor Power
When deciding on an electric cargo bike, battery range and motor power are essential considerations. While many bikes provide a range of 40-60 miles per charge, options such as an additional battery or range extenders are worth discussing with our experts in store or online. Real-world factors like hills, wind, and rider weight significantly impact the bike’s range.
Motor power plays a pivotal role for electric cargo bikes, especially for heavy-duty hauling on various terrains. Larger motors (350w-500w), such as rear hub motor, paired with substantial brakes are essential for effective towing capacity and safety.
Ready to Find Your Dream Electric Cargo Bike?
In conclusion, electric cargo bikes are a game changer in the world of urban commuting, offering a sustainable, efficient, and fun way to transport goods and people. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, the right electric cargo bike for you depends on your specific needs, whether it’s hauling capacity, handling, or the availability of accessories.
So whether you’re replacing your car for city commutes, running errands, or just looking for a healthier and more eco-friendly alternative, there’s an e-cargo bike out there that’s perfect for you.
