Electric Trike Cargo Bikes
Key Takeaways:
| Advantages | Disadvantages | Top Models |
|---|---|---|
| Stable 3-wheel design, Increased load capacity, Powerful electric motor, Zero emissions, Fun to ride | Expensive, Heavy, Learning curve with steering | Juiced Scorpion, Yuba Electric Supermarché, Urban Arrow Family |
Electric cargo trikes, also known as electric cargo tricycles, are revolutionizing last mile deliveries and family transportation in cities across Australia. With their unique 3-wheel stable design, increased load capacity, and powerful electric assist motor, electric cargo trikes enable running errands and moving cargo in an eco-friendly and fun way.
In this comprehensive guide, we will review the key benefits of electric cargo trikes, factors to consider when choosing one, and highlight some of the top stable models available in Australia right now. Whether you are looking to start a delivery business or need a kid-hauling upgrade to your family bicycle, read on to find the perfect electric cargo trike for your needs!
What Are Electric Cargo Trikes?
Electric cargo trikes, sometimes called electric cargo tricycles, are three-wheeled bicycles designed to carry heavier loads than a standard two-wheeled bicycle. They utilize an electric pedal assist motor to make hauling cargo effortless.
The third wheel gives these trikes a stable and safe platform to carry groceries, kids, pets, packages, and more. With cargo capacities ranging from 110kg to 200kg, electric cargo trikes far surpass regular bikes in how much they can transport.
Many models allow further customization with cargo beds, boxes, or child seats to suit your specific hauling needs. The electric pedal assist motor amplifies your pedaling power, enabling you to traverse hilly terrain and maintain speed with hundreds of kilos of cargo in tow.
Benefits of Electric Cargo Trikes
Here are some of the main advantages that make electric cargo trikes a fantastic choice over regular bicycles for urban transportation and delivery purposes:
Stable and Safe 3-Wheel Design
With three wheels steadily planted on the ground instead of two, electric cargo trikes provide unparalleled stability when heavily loaded. This makes them ideal for transporting children or fragile items. The low center of gravity also enhances handling and reduces the risk of tipping when cornering sharply.
Increased Load Carrying Capacity
Electric cargo trikes can typically carry up to 200kg safely. This enables you to haul heavier and bulkier items than a standard bicycle could handle. From weekly groceries to furniture, electric trikes are built for moving serious cargo.
Powerful Electric Pedal Assist
The electric motor amplifies your pedaling power, enabling you to maintain higher speeds while hauling hundreds of kilos. This electric assist helps you power up hills, ride against headwinds, and cover longer distances without fatigue.
Zero Emissions Transportation
Using an electric cargo trike powered by a pedal assist motor produces zero emissions. This makes them a fantastic eco-friendly urban transportation choice over fossil fuel-burning vehicles for short trips and deliveries. You get your exercise while reducing your carbon footprint.
Agile Urban Mobility
At just 1 meter wide, electric cargo trikes can easily navigate urban areas, bike paths, and traffic. Three wheels provide greater stability than two when dealing with potholes, curbs, and uneven surfaces often encountered in cities.
Fun and Engaging Ride
Cargo trikes are simply a blast to ride! With the stability of three wheels and the power boost of a motor, you can zip around town while hauling kids or cargo without compromising on the enjoyment and freedom of cycling.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Electric Cargo Trike
Here are some key considerations as you search for your ideal electric cargo trike:
Motor Power and Torque
Look for a minimum 500W motor with 40Nm of torque or higher to provide enough power to haul heavy loads up hills and maintain decent speeds. Front hub motors tend to perform better for cargo hauling than rear or mid-drive motors.
Cargo Capacity
Consider how much weight you need to carry and choose a trike with adequate capacity. Look for a cargo bed, box, or accessories to hold your specific loads securely. Capacities range from 110kg to 200kg.
Battery Range
Aim for an electric cargo trike with at least a 48V 10Ah lithium battery for sufficient range. Range can vary from 35km to 100km depending on model, load, terrain, and assist level. Consider your daily usage needs.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Look for adjustable seats, suspension, wide tires, and low step-through frames for maximum comfort, especially if riding long distances. Suspension helps smooth bumps when loaded.
Braking System
Choose a cargo trike with hydraulic disc brakes on all three wheels to ensure safe stopping power even when fully loaded. Mechanical disc or rim brakes are less ideal.
Budget
Electric cargo trikes range in price from $2,500 to $8,000+ depending on features and performance. Determine how much you can invest to narrow your selections.
Weight
Keep weight in mind if you ever need to lift the trike. Look for lighter aluminum or carbon frames if maneuverability is a priority. Steel frames tend to be heaviest.
Top Electric Cargo Trike Models in Australia
Juiced Scorpion
The Juiced Scorpion is one of the most affordable yet high-performing electric cargo trikes available in Australia right now. It packs a powerful 750W rear hub motor with 55Nm torque and a 52V 14Ah Samsung battery providing a 65km range.
With 20″ fat tires, hydraulic disc brakes, 9-speed Shimano gears, and a massive 200kg capacity, the Scorpion can haul serious loads up steep hills easily. Integrated front and rear cargo racks with side rails allow versatile payload configurations.
The step-through aluminum frame, adjustable seat, thumb throttle control, and huge 26” front wheel make this electric trike stable, comfortable and easy to maneuver when loaded. Plus, it looks super rad!
Yuba Electric Supermarché
The Yuba Electric Supermarché is a premium electric cargo trike designed for family transport, deliveries and adventure touring. It boasts a Bosch Performance 500W mid-drive motor and a 48V 10.7Ah (500Wh) battery with 50-75km range.
This electric trike can carry up to 200kg on the extended rear cargo deck. It comes equipped with a variable assisted electric drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, parking brake, adjustable stem, cushy seat, integrated lights, fenders, and cargo accessories.
The Electric Supermarché rides smooth and stable thanks to 20” fat tires, advanced suspension, low step-through frame and a balanced design. It’s on the pricey side but ideal for eco-conscious individuals or families needing serious cargo hauling abilities.
Urban Arrow Family
Known for their sleek Dutch design and customization options, Urban Arrow offers a Family electric cargo trike model capable of transporting kids and cargo comfortably and safely.
It’s powered by a smooth Bafang M400 mid-drive electric motor and a 48V 10.7Ah Samsung battery giving 45-65km range. With a 200kg capacity, hydraulic disc brakes, parking brake, adjustable suspension, integrated lighting, and cushy seat, the Urban Arrow Family is built to perform.
Modular front cargo boxes and child seats can be configured to suit your hauling needs. It’s on the expensive side but provides a supremely stable, customizable platform for family transportation and urban delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Cargo Trikes:
How much does an electric cargo trike cost?
Electric cargo trikes typically range in price from $2,500 to $8,000+ depending on the model, features, motor power, battery capacity, and carrying capacity. High-end family models tend to be most expensive.
How far can an electric cargo trike go on a charge?
Range varies widely but expect 35km to 100km with an average model depending on battery size, assist level, terrain, payload weight, and riding style. Most have removable batteries for easy charging.
Can electric cargo trikes go up hills?
Yes, electric cargo trikes are purpose-built for tackling hills even when fully loaded thanks to powerful hub or mid-drive electric motors providing pedal assistance up steep grades.
Are cargo trikes safe for children?
Yes, a cargo trike with child seats integrated into a safety harness system built into the frame provides a very safe way to transport kids vs. a bicycle. The low center of gravity and 3 wheels give added stability.
Are cargo trikes allowed on bike paths?
In most urban areas, electric cargo trikes are classified as bicycles and permitted anywhere standard bikes can go including bike lanes and paths. But regulations may vary by municipality so check your local laws.
Conclusion
For eco-conscious urban dwellers seeking greener transportation and delivery solutions, electric cargo trikes like the Juiced Scorpion, Yuba Supermarché, and Urban Arrow provide the ideal combination of hauling capacity, power assisted pedaling, and maneuverable stability.
With the ability to carry up to 200kg safely over distances up to 100km, electric cargo trikes enable everything from kid transportation to last-mile deliveries while producing zero emissions.
Their stable 3-wheel platform, robust electric motors, large capacity batteries, and customizable cargo configurations make an electric cargo trike the perfect automobile alternative for daily urban mobility and commercial enterprises alike.