Best Cargo Bikes to Carry More in 2024: Top Choices in All Price Categories
A cargo bike is any bike customized to carry luggage safely and conveniently.
Cargo bikes come in many shapes, sizes, and designs, typically with a large platform, rack, or basket on the front or the rear of the bike.
Many families in bike-friendly cities buy cargo bikes to carry their small children around town, but they are also useful if you want to carry pets or groceries.
Cargo bikes also make great delivery vehicles for small businesses or for transporting goods to market stalls.
In this article, we’ll explain more closely what cargo bikes are, what types exist, and recommend the best models that you should consider.
Front-Loader vs. Longtail Cargo Bikes
The two main types of cargo bikes differ in terms of where cargo is carried on the bike.
The front loaders carry luggage upfront, whereas long tails carry luggage in the rear. Both types have specific benefits depending on your preference and the type of cargo you’re carrying.
Rear cargo bikes are good for carrying extra passengers like kids or pets, or any heavy cargo. They usually have a smaller rear wheel with a platform above and can also fit pannier bags.
Front loaders, sometimes called ‘bakfiets’ from the Dutch for box bikes, have a cargo box over the front wheel. Some are detached from the handlebars so that they can carry a heavier weight without affecting steering.
You can also get cargo trikes, with two wheels on the front or rear to better balance heavy cargo.
- Related: Best Electric Cargo Bikes
Best Cargo Bikes of 2024
1. Mongoose Envoy Cargo
2. Trek Fetch+ 4
3. Yuba Kombi E5
4. Lectric XPedition
5. Specialized Globe Haul LT
6. Aventon Abound
7. Trek Fetch+ 2
8. Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5
9. Blix Packa Genie
10. Tern Short Haul D8
11. Yuba FastRack
12. Cannondale Cargowagen Neo
13. Denago Cargo LT
14. Engwe LE20
15. Urban Arrow Family Cargo Bike
16. Velotric Packer 1
1. Mongoose Envoy Cargo
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 3×8-speed
- Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes
- Tire size: 26″ x 2.35″
- Cargo capacity: 130 lb (rear rack)
The Envoy is a cheap cargo bike from Mongoose with a medium-sized rear rack suitable for carrying two large panniers.
It’s suitable for carrying groceries, two child seats, or two pairs of panniers packed with whatever you need. Additional larger items can be strapped over the top of the rack with ropes.
The Envoy has a 24-speed Shimano drivetrain with mechanical disc brakes and 26″ x 2.35″ tires.
The rack takes a max load of 130 lbs (60kg) and comes with two large, water-resistant cargo bags measuring 24″ x 16″ x 6″. This is unique as most cargo bikes come with a rack only and no panniers.
The only downside is that the 26″ wheels make the Mongoose Envoy a bit taller than ideal, which can be an issue if you need to lift heavy items to load them onto the rear rack.
Otherwise, the Envoy is an excellent budget-friendly cargo option for urban riders and families on the go.
2. Trek Fetch+ 4
MSRP: $8,500
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: Enviolo CVP hub
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 2.15″
- Cargo capacity: 175 lb (cargo box)
The Trek Fetch+ 4 is a high-end, high-quality front-loader cargo bike designed for city riding. The small frame with a step-through makes it easier to mount the bike, especially when fully loaded and propped on its dual-leg kickstand.
The Trek Fetch+ 4 has a belt drivetrain instead of a chain paired with an Enviolo CVP hub and Tektro 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes.
The front cargo box is huge and has a 175 lb weight limit, so you can carry multiple kids, pets, or a week’s worth of groceries. In addition to all that, the Trek Fetch+ 4 also comes with a double-leg kickstand, integrated lights, fenders, and an adjustable dropper seat post.
To help move all that cargo from A to B, the Fetch+ 4 also boasts a Bosch Cargo Line 85 Nm motor and a 750 Wh battery. You’ll get pedal assistance up to 20 mph, whereas the range will be influenced by the amount of cargo you’re carrying.
3. Yuba Kombi E5
MSRP: $3,300
- Frame: Chromoly Steel
- Gearing: 9-speed Shimano derailleur
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Cargo capacity: 440 lb (front and rear rack)
- Comfortably carries 2-3 kids
The Kombi E5 is a high-quality, lightweight electric cargo bike from Yuba Cycles that is a great commuter with space for lots of extra luggage.
The integrated rear rack can carry two child seats or two pairs of large panniers, which means that the Yuba Kombi E5 is a long cargo bike that good for families and small businesses.
With a 9-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain you’ll have no trouble getting up hills while heavily loaded and the hydraulic disc brakes will keep you safe when going down.
On top of that, the Kombi E5 is powered by a Shimano Steps E5000 motor and a 418 Wh battery, so you’ll be able to carry additional cargo without breaking a sweat.
Thick Kenda tires make for a comfortable ride and can handle both on-road and off-road conditions. You also get great accessories, such as lights, fenders, a wheel skirt, and a dual-leg kickstand.
If you want the best of the best in the cargo bike world, Yuba’s models such as the Kombi E5 are the way to go.
4. Lectric XPedition
MSRP: $1,800 – 2,100
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 7-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 3″
- Cargo capacity: 300 lb (rear rack), 35 lb (front rack)
The Xpedition is a strong but lightweight cargo bike from Lectric E-Bikes. It makes for an ideal commuter bike if you need space for a little more luggage.
The integrated rear rack can fit up to 4 full-size pannier bags or two child seats. You can also install an additional front rack and carry even more weight.
With a wide-range 7-speed drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes, you’ll have no trouble cycling up or coming down even the steepest of hills while heavily loaded.
Thick 20″ x 3″ tires can handle both on-road and off-road conditions and provide a smooth, comfortable ride. They also keep the center of gravity low which means that the Lectric XPedition is stable when fully loaded.
This cargo ebike also boasts a 750W rear hub motor and a single or double 672 Wh battery with a 75-150 mile range. You can customize the speed and assistance to meet Class 1, 2, or 3 regulations, so you can ride the XPedition anywhere.
Finally, the rear rack holds up to 300 lb of cargo, and you can load an additional 35 lb on the front rack. That’s more than enough to carry everything you need.
5. Specialized Globe Haul LT
MSRP: $3,500
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 9-speed
- Brakes: 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 3.5″
- Cargo capacity: 176 lb (rear rack), 441 lb (rider included)
The Specialized Globe Haul LT is a premium aluminum longtail cargo bike with enough strength and space to carry two children on the rear rack.
The aluminum frame is easy to maneuver with a heavy load and includes a double kickstand and loads of other accessories, such as fenders, lights, a rear rack, rear wheel skirt, and even a telescoping seat tube.
The Globe Haul LT is powered by a 700W rear hub motor that delivers more than enough power to zoom around town at 28 mph while fully loaded with up to 441 lb of weight. On top of that, the 772 Wh battery provides up to 60 miles of range.
This capable cargo e-bike also sports a 9-speed microSHIFT rear derailleur and 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes. This will make it easier to climb when carrying heavy loads and stop the bike on a dime.
We recommend the Specialized Globe Haul LT to anyone who wants a high-quality cargo bike at a reasonable price.
6. Aventon Abound
MSRP: $1,799
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 7-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 2.4″
- Cargo capacity: 143 lb (rear rack), 441 lb (rider included)
The Aventon Abound is a stretched-out longtail bike that looks like a limousine in the world of cargo bikes, with a huge rear rack that allows this bike to carry up to 440 lbs (200kg) of weight.
The Abound features a potent 750W rear hub motor and a 672 Wh battery which results in a 20 mph top assisted speed and a 50-mile range. Considering this is a class 2 ebike, you also get a throttle, which will help you get going when the bike is fully loaded.
What we especially like about the Aventon Abound is how well-equipped it is considering the affordable price tag. It comes with a 7-speed derailleur, hydraulic disc brakes, fenders, lights, suspension fork, rear rack, rear wheel guard, and so on.
You can also customize it with a large number of additional accessories to make it more suitable for different purposes, such as carrying groceries or transporting children.
Considering the value you get for the money, the Aventon Abound is a top choice in this category.
7. Trek Fetch+ 2
MSRP: $6,000
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 10-speed
- Brakes: 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 2.35″
- Cargo capacity: 175 lb (rear rack), 441 lb (rider included)
The Trek Fetch+ 2 is a heavy-duty cargo electric bicycle designed for the tough tasks of carrying heavy loads in urban conditions. With its extra-long 4-pannier rear rack and 20″ x 2.35″ multi-surface tires, the Fetch+ 2 will help you carry up to 175 lb of cargo on the rear rack or transport two kids and ditch the car.
The Trek Fetch+ 2 is built around a long aluminum frame with an integrated rear rack. It’s equipped with a high-quality Shimano Deore 10-speed rear derailleur, 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, and powerful electronic components.
You get a Bosch Performance Line Cargo 85 Nm motor and a 500 Wh battery, which is among the best drive systems you can get on cargo ebikes—it will help you sustain speeds of up to 20 mph.
The Fetch+ 2 is compatible with a large number of customizations, allowing you to carry different types of cargo and perform different tasks.
8. Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5
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MSRP: $2,199
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 7-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 3.3″
- Cargo capacity: 375 lb (total weight capacity), 265 lb max rider
With a 750W geared hub motor and 375 lbs of total load capacity, the Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5 is a highly versatile and affordable cargo e-bike.
The 720 Wh battery will take you up to 60 miles on a single charge and keep the included front and rear lights running without interruption. Moreover, the 750W rear hub motor is operated with pedal assistance or throttle and has a 28 mph top speed. It has plenty of torque, so it won’t struggle to carry you and any extra cargo.
For easy pedaling, the RadWagon gives you a choice of 7 gears provided by a Shimano groupset with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes. The strong 20″ wheels and 3.3″ tires make cycling around safe and comfortable, plus you get a dual kickstand for easy stopping and full fenders for wet weather days.
This bike also boasts a handy rear wheel skirt, a wooden rear rack board, and loads of additional accessories you can install to customize it.
Get the RagWagon 5 if you want one of the most affordable tried and true options out there, with lots of positive reviews.
9. Blix Packa Genie
MSRP: $2,099
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: Shimano 7-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 24″ x 2.4″
- Cargo capacity: 400 lb (rider included)
The direct-to-consumer cargo bike manufacturer Blix offers a compact and easy-to-maneuver cargo electric bike called the Packa Genie.
This rear-loading longtail e-bike can carry anything you want, such as pets, kids, and heavy cargo, with a payload capacity of up to 400 lbs. The 750W rear hub motor will easily carry you from A to B with an average range of 80 miles from the two 672 Wh battery (if you get the dual-battery setup).
Other notable features on this bike include hydraulic disc brakes, a long-lasting Shimano 7-speed rear derailleur, LED lights, and a kickstand.
Consider the Packa Genie if you’re looking for a fully-equipped cargo e-bike with plenty of space and power.
Thanks to the rear wheel skirt and a long rear rack, you can easily transport two kids on the back. You can retrofit an additional child seat on the down tube, and even install a front rack or basket to carry more groceries.
10. Tern Short Haul D8
MSRP: $1,099
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 8-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 2.15″
- Cargo capacity: 110 lb (rear rack), 308 lb (rider included)
The Tern Short Haul D8 is a compact cargo bike with enough space to carry one child seat or a pair of large panniers.
The 110 lb load capacity on the rear rack means you can carry loads of groceries or other necessities. You can also install an optional front rack to carry an additional 44 lbs.
The Short Haul D8 does not have any electric assistance, but you’ll find it relatively easy to pedal when fully loaded thanks to the Shimano Altus 8-speed rear derailleur. You also get powerful hydraulic disc brakes and versatile 20″ x 2.15″ Schwalbe tires.
We also like the fact that the Short Haul D8 comes with pretty much all the accessories you need for commuting, such as fenders, and a kickstand.
But the best thing about this cargo bike is the affordable price tag, meaning almost anyone can afford it and leave their gas-guzzling car in the garage more often.
Buy from REI Buy from Tern Bicycles
11. Yuba FastRack
MSRP: $4,000
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 10-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 2.4″
- Cargo capacity: 440 lb (rider included)
The FastRack is Yuba’s best electric cargo bike, and for a good reason, as it’s both compact and powerful—two of the most popular features among urban commuters.
The Yuba FastRack is an aluminum bike that can carry up to 440 lbs of cargo with the rider included. The good news is that this cargo ebike comes with a long integrated rear rack and a smaller front rack, so you can distribute the weight more evenly across the bike.
To help the load keep moving, the FastRack includes a Shimano Steps E7000 motor and a 500 Wh battery that will allow you to carry extra weight without breaking a sweat.
The groupset features Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and a 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain. On top of that, the 2.4″ tires ensure you have a comfortable ride no matter the terrain.
Other extras include fenders, a kickstand, and integrated lights, all of which will come in handy when taking your kids to school or carrying other necessities.
12. Cannondale Cargowagen Neo
MSRP: $4,300
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: 10-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 2.6″ (f), 2.15″ (r)
- Cargo capacity: 440 lb
The Cannondale Cargowagen Neo is a cargo bike with electric assist that can carry two passengers or cargo up to 440 lbs heavy. Its key feature is the Bosch Performance Speed mid-drive motor system that provides a smooth and quiet ride with plenty of power to haul a full payload.
The battery has 545 Wh of capacity and returns up to 65miles of range, though you can also get a second battery to double the range.
With hydraulic disc brakes, 20″ x 2.6″ and 2.15″ tires, integrated lights, fenders, and a wheel skirt, you’ll feel safe and comfortable at all times on the road.
Finally, the Cannondale Cargowagen Neo also comes with a 10-speed Shimano Deore rear derailleur, dual-leg kickstand, and smart mounting points to install handy accessories and customize the bike to your liking.
13. Denago Cargo LT
MSRP: $2,099
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: Shimano 7-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 24″ x 2.6″
- Cargo capacity: 330 lb (rider included)
The Denago Cargo LT is one of the biggest yet easiest-to-ride cargo bikes available.
The heavy-duty aluminum frame, rear cargo rack, and a rear hub motor all make this bike an excellent choice.
The Cargo LT’s total weight limit is 330 lb, which is enough to take your child to school, football practice, or carry a week’s worth of groceries.
The drive unit offers 750W of power and 32 Nm of torque, supported by a huge 960 Wh battery. This combination provides a range of up to 48 miles and the battery changes in less than 4 hours.
Finally, hydraulic disc brakes, premium 24″ x 2.8″ tires, and confident steering from the integrated headset stability control ensure you can ride confidently even with a full payload.
14. Engwe LE20
MSRP: $1,500
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: Shimano 7-speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 20″ x 3.0″
- Cargo capacity: 440 lb (rider included)
The Engwe LE20 is a compact electric cargo bike with a long-range battery that will take you up to 109 miles on one charge. If you get its dual-battery version, you can ride up to 211 miles on a single charge.
This cargo bicycle is perfect for those who want a capable cargo model that can carry up to 440 lb of weight but costs just $1,500.
The custom-tuned 750W rear hub motor provides enough power to carry you and additional cargo on the rear rack with ease. The motor can be operated with a throttle and pedal assist modes, with a 20 mph or 28 mph top speed, respectively.
The Engwe LE20 also includes front and rear lights, fenders, and a dual-leg kickstand. You can also install an additional front rack and loads of other accessories, such as a child seat.
Finally, this bike boasts a 7-speed rear derailleur, hydraulic disc brakes and versatile 20″ x 3.0″ tires for maximum comfort.
15. Urban Arrow Cargo
MSRP: $8,000
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: Enviolo heavy-duty internal hub
- Brakes: 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 26″ / 20″ x 1.75″
- Cargo capacity: 275 lb (front cargo box), 550 lb (rider included)
The Urban Arrow cargo bike company is among the most popular choices for front-loaded electric cargo bikes.
The Family Cargo Bike is a bakfiet cargo bike with a long front loading box designed specifically for carrying large amounts of cargo. It can carry up to a whopping 550 pounds of payload, which is among the highest on the market. The front box can handle up to 275 lbs of cargo.
This ebike combines a 26″ rear wheel with a smaller 20″ front wheel which provides better steering and control. You also get an internal Enviolo heavy-duty gear hub with a gates carbon belt drive and four-piston hydraulic disc brakes.
Finally, you have a full Bosch Performance line drive unit that ensures plenty of range and enough power to pull a fully loaded bike.
If you want one of the most premium options on this list with an incredible carrying capacity, the Urban Arrow Cargo is the best choice.
16. Velotric Packer 1
MSRP: $2,199
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gearing: Shimano 8-speed
- Brakes: 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
- Tire size: 26″ x 2.4″ front and 20″ x 3″ rear
- Cargo capacity: 440 lb (rider included)
With a powerful 750W rear hub motor and a respectable range of up to 52 miles, the Velotric Packer 1 can do whatever you need.
It comes with a long rear rack with a carrying capacity of 176 lb, whereas the bike’s total weight capacity is 440 lb. The additional accessories such as a rear rack top board, a wheel skirt, and a dual leg kickstand make it practical for all sorts of jobs, including making deliveries.
The rear rack can easily transport a child or carry groceries, so the Velotric Packer 1 can be used by parents or urban commuters. Additionally, you have fenders, integrated lights, and hydraulic disc brakes which make it perfect for riding in all conditions.
The Packer 1 will assist you up to 25 mph, which makes it a class 3 e-bike and you also get a high-quality Shimano 8-speed drivetrain which will make it easier to pedal uphill or ride when you’re low on battery.
Finally, this bike fits riders 5’3″ to 6’6″, and you can easily find the perfect position thanks to the adjustable stem.
Get the Velotric Packer 1 if you need a fun, quick, and nimble cargo e-bike to take your kids to school, do grocery shopping, or support your business!
Different Types of Cargo Bikes You Can Get
Cycle Truck
This bike has a smaller front wheel to accommodate a large basket above it for storage. Typically, they also have a rear rack for additional cargo. Some cycle trucks have an extended front area for cargo and are known as front loaders.
Long John
The Long John is an extraordinary-looking machine with an extended front flatbed cargo loader to fit large items like kitchen appliances. The small front wheel sticks out far ahead and is controlled by a long metal pole running under the flatbed loader.
Longtail Bike
The longtail bike has a large rear rack built over a smaller back wheel. It can usually accommodate large items on the rack plus four pannier racks attached to the side. Often, these bikes are fitted with removable seats to carry two or more passengers.
Bakfiets
A ‘bakfiets’ is a common type of cargo bike found in the Netherlands with an extended front cargo hold over a small front wheel. They are similar to a Long John, only less extended and with a bucket rather than a flatbed loader. You also get three-wheel bakfiets with extra-large cargo buckets.
FAQ
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How to lock a cargo bicycle?
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Cargo bike vs. bike trailer
Cargo bike vs trike
Cargo bike vs. touring bike
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It seems that since the comments have was posted, the Packa has been added, but not to the “Conclusions” section. Would appreciate any thoughts about Packa vs RadWagon.
Hi,
Great reviews all, I was wondering why the electric Packa didn’t make the review, looks like a great bike with a price point just above Rad’s line with more integrated features.would value your review. Thank you for doing this, I appreciate you.
That’s a great recommendation, thanks!