Best Electric Cargo Bikes: Top 10 Models From Leading Brands

Best Electric Cargo Bikes: Top 10 Models From Leading Brands

Electric cargo bikes provide powered assistance hauling children, pets, and gear using eco-friendly pedal electric vehicles. With so many family and utility e-cargo bikes now available, it can be challenging to choose the best model. This guide covers the top 10 highest rated electric cargo bikes spanning a range of configurations, capacities, prices, and uses from top brands like Yuba, Tern, Urban Arrow, and more.

Top 10 Electric Cargo Bike Models

Keep reading for the full reviews on these top-ranked electric cargo bike models from trusted brands to see which is best suited for your family and cargo hauling needs.

Yuba Supermarché Overview

Type: Longtail cargo bike

Load capacity: 220 lb

Range: 30-50 mi

Motor: Bosch Performance mid-drive, 250W

Battery: Bosch PowerPack, 400-500Wh

The Supermarché from California-based Yuba centers around a stout aluminum longtail frame with massive carrying capacity. 20″ spoked wheels, hydraulic disc brakes, an 8-speed derailleur drivetrain, and integrated lights complement the Bosch mid-drive electric assist. The Supermarché tackles huge cargo missions and drops kid pickup duties with equal proficiency.

Yuba Supermarché Review Highlights

• Roomy 26” x 24” cargo area swallows bulky loads
• Low step through frame for easy mounting
• Bosch system offers reliable support up hills
• Rail-Beam compliant frame adds stiffness
• Easy walking with wheel lock when stopped
• Integrated rear and side rails secure accessories
• Max load nearly rivals compact car capacity

From Costco runs to downtown deliveries, Yuba Supermarché owners praise the rugged utility of this electric workhorse. The Supermarché skips car trips confidently hauling substantial weight.

Tern GSD Overview

Type: Longtail cargo bike

Load capacity: 200 lb

Range: 30-70 mi

Motor: Bosch mid-drive, 400Wh battery

Tern’s versitile GSD can be configured for cargo or passengers with its modular longtail design. 20” wheels, quality Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, an 8-speed derailleur drivetrain, and a robust Bosch motor assist the hauling. Swappable in seconds between cargo and kids makes the GSD incredibly versatile.

Tern GSD Review Highlights

• Quickly converts between cargo and child seats
• Low entry step through frame for accessibility
• Bosch motor system is reliable and smooth
• Small 20” wheels aid mobility in urban areas
• Large portfolio of accessories for customization
• Can add running boards for child feet rests
• Aluminum frame keeps weight low but stiff under load

Parents love the Tern GSD’s flexible configurations for dropping kids off in the morning and tackling grocery errands in the afternoon using the same bike.

Riese & Müller Load 75 Overview

Type: Longtail cargo bike

Load capacity: 275 lb

Range: 31-62 mi

Motor: Custom mid-drive, dual 500Wh batteries

German engineering shines through on Riese & Müller’s Load 75 heavy hauling longtail e-bike. Hydraulic disc brakes, an 8-speed internal geared hub, integrated lighting, and an ultra robust frame join R&M’s dual battery 500 watt mid-drive assist system. Go the distance fully loaded easily.

Riese & Müller Load 75 Review Highlights

• Massive 400 lb gross load capacity
• Custom mid-drive motor optimized for cargo loads
• Dual 500Wh removable batteries extend range
• Gates carbon belt drive nearly maintenance free
• Integrated locking kickstand for stable loading
• High quality hydraulic disc brakes
• Customizable modular attachments

Owners call the Load 75 an absolute workhorse capable of enabling car free living. The robust construction inspires confidence for families and urban delivery services hauling substantial weight daily.

Urban Arrow Family Overview

Type: Long John cargo bike

Load capacity: 275 lb

Range: 43-124 mi

Motor: Shimano Steps mid-drive, 500Wh battery

The ingeniously designed Family model from Urban Arrow sets the standard for electric long john cargo bikes. 20” wheels, roller brakes, a Shimano 8-speed internally geared hub, and powerful Shimano Steps electric assistrike make light work of huge loads in its massive front cargo hold.

Urban Arrow Family Review Highlights

• Huge front container space carries multiple kids or cargo
• Shimano STEPS system is robust yet smooth
• Integrated child seats and restraints for safety
• Adjustable seat and handlebars fit riders 5’-6’8”
• Removable battery locks securely for charging
• Rain cover and mesh screen options
• Can add a “buddy bar” for a third child

Families adore the capacity to transport multiple kids and gear in the Family model’s expansive front cargo box fitted with child seats and restraints. Urban Arrow sets the bar for kid carrying functionality.

Babboe City-E Overview

Type: Longtail cargo bike

Load capacity: 220 lb

Range: 31-62 mi

Motor: Bosch Active Line mid-drive, 400Wh battery

The Babboe City-E longtail packs impressive electric cargo hauling capability into a nimble and affordable package. 20” wheels, mechanical disc brakes, 7-speed Shimano gearing, and a sturdy aluminum frame provide a 65 lb payload capacity using Bosch Active Line power assist.

Babboe City-E Review Highlights

• Large rear rack carries kids or cargo
• Bosch electric assist is ultra reliable
• Integrated wheel lock for parking security
• Optional rain canopy and passenger bench
• Low step through frame aids mounting
• Adjustable handlebars and seat
• Above average component spec for price

Commuters love the Babboe City-E’s utility and quality combined with a price making cargo e-biking accessible. It carries kids or work goods with equal proficiency.

RadWagon 4 Overview

Type: Longtail cargo bike

Load capacity: 300 lb

Range: 45-75 mi

Motor: 750W geared hub motor

The RadWagon 4 comes ready to haul right out of the box. Its longtail design built on 26” wheels can carry up to 300 lb of kids or cargo. Mechanical disc brakes, 7-speed Shimano shifting, an integrated wheel lock, and a powerful hub motor prove its utilitarian mission.

RadWagon 4 Review Highlights

• Hauls massive 300 lb load capacity
• Large rear deck with rails secures cargo or seats
• Integrated wheel lock for parking security
• 5 level pedal assist with full throttle
• Rear rack can expand cargo options
• Quality mechanical disc brakes
• Optional passenger packages and kits

Owners love the RadWagon 4’s ability to carry heavier loads than other cargo e-bikes – all at an affordable price. The ultra robust package makes light work of delivering goods or shuttling multiple kids.

Xtracycle Edgerunner Overview

Type: Longtail cargo bike

Load capacity: 300 lb

Range: 20-80 mi

Motor: Bafang mid-drive, 500Wh battery

With its stretched “Side Loader” longtail frame design, the Xtracycle Edgerunner can carry up to 300 lb of cargo on its extended rear deck. Hydraulic disc brakes provide ample stopping power while a Bafang mid-drive motor assists hauling over long days.

Xtracycle Edgerunner Review Highlights

• Side Loader frame design expands carrying capacity
• 20” wheels enhance maneuverability when loaded
• Bosch motor puts out steady power up hills
• Multiple battery options up to 1500Wh
• Rear wheel lock for parking security
• Rugged construction stands up to heavy use
• Rail-Beam system stiffens frame under load

Edgerunner owners love being able to carry heavier and bulkier cargo than possible on normal long tails. The robust build quality makes it popular for utility applications like delivery services.

Riese & Müller Load 60 Overview

Type: Long John cargo bike

Load capacity: 308 lb

Range: 31-62 mi

Motor: Custom mid-drive, dual 500Wh batteries

German engineering pushes e-cargo bike capabilities to the maximum in the Riese and Müller Load 60. Its long john configuration places cargo between the rider and front wheel for stability hauling over 300 lb. A Gates belt drive, Shimano roller brakes, integrated lighting, and R&M’s dual 500Wh battery mid-drive motor power the Load 60.

Riese & Müller Load 60 Review Highlights

• Cavernous covered front cargo space
• Custom extra powerful cargo motor
• Dual swappable batteries extend range
• Integrated ticket clip for passenger restraint
• Adjustable handlebars and seat posts
• 20” wheels enhance maneuverability
• High quality reliable components

For cargo capacity pushing the limits, the R&M Load 60 earns praise. Owners report the robust frame and cargo-optimized motor handle incredible loads for families or commercial services.

Tern GSD S10 Overview

Type: Longtail cargo bike

Load capacity: 200 lb

Range: 48-124 mi

Motor: Bosch Performance mid-drive, dual 500Wh batteries

Tern’s GSD S10 longtail uses a step-through aluminum frame to allow easy mounting. Small 20” wheels, quality Shimano hydraulic brakes, a NuVinci continuously variable internally geared hub, Supernova lighting, Abus locks, and a robust Bosch mid-motor with dual batteries earn the S10 praise as the “SUV” of cargo e-bikes.

Tern GSD S10 Review Highlights

• Step through frame for easy mounting
• Very long duty cycle from dual 500Wh batteries
• NuVinci hub shifts seamlessly through ratios
• Powerful Bosch motor rated for cargo hauling
• Integrated lighting and security features
• Max payload capacity up to 220 lb
• 20” wheels enhance maneuverability

For an exceptionally refined longtail built to endure heavy cargo use or miles with kids, Tern’s GSD S10 represents the state of the art. Owners love the quality and utility that makes car-free living possible.

Urban Arrow Tender Overview

Type: Long John cargo bike

Load capacity: 250 lb

Range: 31-93 mi

Motor: Shimano STEPS, dual 504Wh batteries

The Tender lives up to its name providing cushy transport for kids or cargo in its long front container. Tektro hydraulic brakes, integrated lighting, Abus locks, special “woven vinyl” chassis protection, and a sturdy Shimano STEPS electric drive with dual batteries distinguish this capable kid and cargo mover.

Urban Arrow Tender Review Highlights

• Large weatherproof front container
• Integrated child bench and restraints
• Plush seat pad and woven vinyl chassis protection
• Powerful Shimano motor optimized for cargo
• Removable dual batteries extend range immensely
• Adjustable handlebars and seat posts fit diverse riders
• 20” wheels enhance nimbleness when loaded

For protected cargo hauling in any weather, Urban Arrow’s Tender sets the bar. Multiple kids and a week’s worth of groceries disappears inside with room to spare. The refined design ensures rides remain comfy and convenient.

How to Select the Best Electric Cargo Bike

With so many excellent electric cargo bike options now available, keep these tips in mind when selecting the best model for your needs:

• Calculate required cargo capacity and get realistic weight estimates
• Consider required range under load to meet your daily trips
• Test ride models fully loaded to evaluate handling and comfort
• Scrutinize motor power and battery capacity – more is better for heavy loads
• Prioritize durable, low maintenance components and fenders
• Ensure capable brakes to stop 400+ lb vehicle weight
• Check rider ergonomics like adjustable seats and handlebars
• Maximize theft deterrence with locks and alarms
• Have realistic budget for a high quality purpose-built bike

Take time researching and test riding models thoroughly before purchasing an electric cargo bike. A properly spec’d e-bike matched to your cargo and range needs makes all the difference enabling car-free living!

Key Takeaways on the Best Electric Cargo Bikes

• Yuba, Tern, Urban Arrow, Riese & Muller, Xtracycle, and Rad Power Bikes lead the e-cargo bike field
• Calculate required load capacity and range needs accurately
• Test ride models fully loaded to evaluate handling and control
• Power and range requirements escalate quickly with cargo weight
• Hardtail long johns provide immense capacity but less refined ride
• Longtails strike a nice balance between capability and handling
• Hydraulic disc brakes and puncture resistant tires are must haves
• Security features like locks and alarms help deter theft

Find the purpose-built electric cargo bike optimized for your family or business needs. Then say goodbye to congestion and parking woes!

Frequently Asked Questions on Electric Cargo Bikes

What is the weight capacity on most electric cargo bikes?

Load capacities range from around 200 lb on smaller long tails up to 400+ lb on heavy duty commercial long johns. Know your exact needs.

What is the typical electric cargo bike range?

30-50 miles is common for smaller batteries around 400-500 Wh. Larger 750-1000 Wh batteries can extend range to 75-100+ miles depending on conditions.

Are electric cargo bikes expensive?

Entry-level models start around $2000 but quality mid-drive units run $4000 to $6000. Some commercial-duty long johns exceed $10k.

Do I need a special license to operate an electric cargo bike?

If it meets local electric bike laws, no special license is needed beyond a standard bike permit. Do not exceed the power and speed thresholds.

What kind of motor should an electric cargo bike have?

A mid-drive motor provides better performance especially for larger loads. 750W cargo-rated mid-drives are ideal though more costly.

Conclusion

Electric cargo bikes provide practical transportation supporting car-free family living. Models from category leaders like Yuba, Urban Arrow, Tern, and Riese & Muller demonstrate the incredible utility possible. But cargo and battery range capabilities must align closely with your needs. Test riding fully loaded reveals how robustly designed frames, motors, and components handle substantial cargo weight. An e-cargo bike tailored specifically for weekly grocery runs or contracting jobs enables ditching congestion and emissions. Now you have the best options to start simplifying daily transportation!