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Best Cargo Bikes to Carry More in 2024: Top Choices in All Price Categories

By Sam Millers   /  Last updated - March 11, 2024   /  Best-Of-Reviews, Cargo bikes, Reviews, Utility bikes

a family on a cargo bike

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.



1. Mongoose Envoy Cargo

mongoose cheap cargo bicycle

  • 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.

Buy on Amazon


2. Trek Fetch+ 4

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.

Buy from Trekbikes.com


3. Blix Dubbel 

Blix Dubbel utility electric bike

MSRP: $2,099 – $2,499

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Gearing: 8-speed microSHIFT
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tire size: 20″ x 3.3″
  • Cargo capacity: 200 lb (front and rear rack)

This affordable, lightweight 20″ cargo bike from Blix Bikes is a great commuter with space for some extra luggage.

The integrated rear rack can carry one child seat or one pair of large panniers, which means that the Blix Dubbel is a compact cargo bike, also known as a utility bike.

With an 8-speed microSHIFT drivetrain you’ll have no trouble getting up hills while heavily loaded and the hydraulic disc brakes will keep you safe when going down.

Thick 3.3″ 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. 

To help carry all the luggage, the Blix Dubbel also features a 750W rear hub motor and a single or double 672 Wh battery. Thanks to an electric throttle, you’ll find it easy to start riding when fully loaded, and with both batteries, you can expect a range of up to 80 miles. 

Buy from Blix Bikes


4. Lectric XPedition 

lectric xpedition ebike

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.

Buy from Lectricebikes.com


5. Specialized Globe Haul LT

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.

Buy from Specialized.com


6. Aventon Abound

aventon abound cargo ebike

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.

Buy from Aventon


7. Trek Fetch+ 2

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. 

Buy from Trekbikes.com


8. Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 5

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.

Buy from RadPowerBikes.com


9. Urban Arrow Shorty Performance

urban arrow shorty performance cargo ebike

MSRP: $5,000

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Gearing: Enviolo trekking hub
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tire size: 26″ / 20″ x 2″
  • Cargo capacity: 220 lb (front cargo box), 496 lb (rider included)

The Dutch cargo bike manufacturer Urban Arrow offers a compact and easy-to-maneuver cargo electric bike called the Shorty Performance. 

This front-loading bucket bike can carry anything you want, such as pets, kids, and heavy cargo, with a payload capacity of up to 496 lbs. The Bosch Performance Line motor with 65 Nm of torque will easily carry you from A to B with an average range of 31 miles from the 500 Wh battery. 

Other notable features on this bike include Tektro Dorado hydraulic disc brakes, a long-lasting Enviolo internally-geared hub, LED lights, and a dual-leg kickstand. 

Consider the Shorty Performance if you’re looking for a fully-equipped cargo e-bike with plenty of space and power. 

Keep in mind that this bike is not ideal for transporting kids due to the shape of the front cargo box. It’s better suited for carrying groceries and other types of cargo.

Buy from Mike's Bikes


10. Tern Short Haul D8

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 

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. 

Buy on MikesBikes.com


12. Blix Packa Genie

Blix Packa Genie

MSRP: $2,099 – 2,499

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Gearing: 7-speed
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tire size: 24″ x 2.4″
  • Cargo capacity: 200 lb (cargo only)

The Blix Packa Genie is a cargo bike with electric assist that can carry two passengers or cargo up to 200 lbs heavy. Its key feature is the 750W rear hub motor system that provides a smooth and quiet ride with plenty of power to haul a full payload. 

The dual-battery setup has 1228 Wh of capacity and returns up to 80 miles of range, though you can also get a single-speed version with a 40-mile maximum range.

With hydraulic disc brakes, 24″ x 2.4″ tires, integrated lights, fenders, and a wheel skirt, you’ll feel safe and comfortable at all times on the road.

Finally, the Blix Packa Genie also comes with a 7-speed Shimano rear derailleur, dual-leg kickstand, and smart mounting points to install handy accessories and customize the bike to your liking.

Buy from BlixBike.com


13. Momentum PakYak E+

Momentum PakYak E+ cargo electric bike

MSRP: $5,600

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Gearing: Shimano Nexus 5-speed
  • Brakes: 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tire size: 24″ x 2.5″
  • Cargo capacity: 102lb (rear rack), 33 lbs (front cargo basket), 361 lb (rider included)

The Momentum PakYak E+ is one of the biggest yet easiest-to-ride cargo bikes available.

The heavy-duty Giant ALUXX aluminum frame, front and rear cargo racks, 40mm travel dropper post, and internally geared hub all make this bike an excellent choice. 

The PakYak’s total weight limit is 361 lb, though you can carry up to 102 lb on the rear rack and up to 33 lb in the front cargo basket.

The drive unit is the Giant/Yamaha SyncDrive Pro mid-drive setup with 250W/80Nm supported by a huge 500Wh battery with an optional 500 Wh range extender. This combination provides a range of up to 120 miles and the battery changes in less than 4 hours. 

Finally, Tektro 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, premium Maxxis Hook Worm 2.5″ tires, and confident steering from the integrated headset stability control ensure you can ride confidently even with a full 361 lb payload. 

Buy from Mikesbikes.com


14. Specialized Globe Haul ST

Specialized Globe Haul ST

MSRP: $2,800

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Gearing: microSHIFT Advent 9-speed
  • Brakes: 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tire size: 20″ x 3.5″
  • Cargo capacity: 132lb (rear rack), 419 lb (rider included)

The Specialized Globe Haul ST is a compact electric cargo bike with a long-range battery that will take you up to 60 miles on one charge.

This cargo bicycle is the smaller brother of the longer Globe Haul LT that we’ve already reviewed above. This model is perfect for those who want a more compact bike that is easier to maneuver and carries less cargo.

The custom-tuned 700W rear hub motor provides enough power to carry you and up to 132 lbs of additional cargo on the rear rack with ease. In addition to that, the 772 Wh battery will ensure a 60-mile maximum range if you use the motor assistance sparingly.  

The Specialized Globe Haul ST 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 9-speed rear derailleur, Tektro four-piston hydraulic disc brakes and versatile 20″ x 3.5″ tires for maximum comfort.

Buy from Specialized.com


15. Urban Arrow Cargo

urban arrow family cargo bike

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.

Buy from Mike's Bikes


16. Tern Vektron S10

Tern Vektron S10

MSRP: $3,699

  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Gearing: Shimano Deore 10-speed
  • Brakes: 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tire size: 20″ x 2.15″
  • Cargo capacity: 60 lb (rear rack), 275 lb (rider included)

With a powerful Bosch Performance Line mid-drive 250W motor and a respectable range of up to 68 miles, the Tern Vektron S10 can do whatever you need.

It comes with a compact rear rack with a carrying capacity of 60 lbs, whereas the bike’s total weight capacity is 275 lb. The folding mechanism makes it extremely practical, so you can take it on the escalator, in the elevator, on the train, or easily store it in your apartment. 

The rear rack can easily transport a child or carry groceries, so the Tern Vektron S10 can be used by parents or urban commuters. Additionally, you have fenders, a kickstand, integrated lights, and hydraulic disc brakes which make it perfect for riding in all conditions. 

The Vektron S10 will assist you up to 20 mph, which makes it a class 1 e-bike and you also get a high-quality Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain which will make it easier to pedal uphill or ride when you’re low on battery.

Finally, this bike fits riders 4’10” to 6’5″, and you can easily find the perfect position thanks to the adjustable stem and seatpost. 

Get the Tern Vektron S10 if you need a fun, quick, and nimble cargo e-bike to take your kids to school, do grocery shopping, or support your business!

Buy from REI    Buy from Tern Bicycles


Different Types of Cargo Bikes You Can Get

Product image for gold

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

How to transport a cargo bike?

Most cargo bikes have large, inconvenient frames that make them difficult to transport but these days foldable cargo bikes are becoming more popular. The best transportation method is in the rear of a truck or large SUV.

How to lock a cargo bicycle?

Due to the unusual size, it’s often impossible to lock a cargo bike on a normal bike rack. However, many cargo bikes come with integrated wheel locks which make them easy to park and lock on the street.

How to use a cargo bike rack?

Most cargo bike racks fit basic strap or or clip-on pannier bags without the need for any extra accessories. However, if you want to carry larger loads like passengers or unusual cargo then you should find out what add-ons can fit your cargo bike rack.

Which cargo bike is the best?

The RadWagon electric cargo bike by Rad Power Bikes is most likely one of the hardest bikes not to consider buying. Depending on your requirements, different cargo bikes are better for certain activities. For the most luggage space, the Surly Big Dummy or Urban Arrow Family Cargo Bike is best. If you need something compact to carry just a small child or a bit of luggage, the Tern GSD or RadWagon is perfect.

Where to buy a cargo bike frame?

For custom builders, Aventuron offers a selection of the best cargo bike frames from Surly and Salsa.

Cargo bike vs. bike trailer

Some people prefer to pull a trailer on a normal bike rather than use a cargo bike which has some advantages and disadvantages. A cargo bike is not as versatile and can’t be used as a normal bike when carrying cargo but a trailer can be more cumbersome and difficult to cycle with. It also involves more moving parts and therefore, more possibility for breakdowns.

Cargo bike vs trike

Trikes can be useful if carrying heavy weight or extra passengers as they are self-standing and much easier to balance when moving. However, they are very big and include more complex moving parts, making them harder to maintain and store.

Cargo bike vs. touring bike

Some cargo bikes are almost interchangeable with touring bikes although typically they can hold more weight. Many cargo bikes are built to carry passengers so they have stronger, heavier frames.

 

About the Author

Sam Millers

Sam Millers is the guy behind Bikexchange.com. From the early days of three wheels to conquering challenging mountain trails, Sam's love for cycling knows no bounds. With a background in web development, Sam seamlessly combined two of his greatest passions – cycling and technology. As the creative force behind Bikexchange.com, he shares insightful stories, expert tips, and engaging content for fellow cycling enthusiasts. When he's not exploring new biking routes or tweaking website codes, Alex enjoys sipping on a post-ride espresso and planning his next cycling adventure. 

3 thoughts on “Best Cargo Bikes to Carry More in 2024: Top Choices in All Price Categories

  1. Joe says:

    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.

  2. Norma says:

    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.

    1. Sam Millers says:

      That’s a great recommendation, thanks!

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