Five innovative e-cargo bicycles - marvels of modern transportation technology.
Cargo bikes are gaining popularity in this nation as an eco-friendly, budget-friendly alternative to automobiles, a fashion statement, or in some cases even a travel bike that can accommodate small kids and big gear. The bike industry is responding to this surge in demand by introducing new models that provide not just improved transport abilities but also an increasing amount of safety technology. Here are five new models for the 2024 season.
Tern Orox for Thrill-Seekers
This new Tern Orox is designed for thrill-seekers. With its extended back end and hefty cargo rack, it's perfect for attaching heavy bags. Fourteen bolt holes at the fork make it possible to mount various cargo solutions at the front as well. Tern specifies a maximum weight capacity of 180 kilograms off-road and 210 kilograms on asphalt.
For trips into the wilderness, the Orox is equipped with voluminous Johnny-Watts tires. It is supported by a Bosch Performance Line CX mid-motor with an 800-Wh battery. The range can be extended optionally with a second battery to 300 kilometers.
Alternatively, a 14-speed internal gear hub from Rohloff in combination with a belt drive can be chosen. Magura Four-Piston hydraulic disc brakes ensure reliable braking. The Orox, suitable for riders between 1.55 and 1.95 meters tall, costs at least 6,800 Euro.
Tenways Cargo One for Child Transport
Parents looking for a child-friendly and affordable option should consider the Tenways Cargo One. The Long John-style e-cargo bike features a spacious cargo box with a 800-liter capacity between the 26-inch rear wheel and the 20-inch front wheel. Two child seats with five-point harnesses are integrated.
The standard equipment includes a rain cover and various cargo box coverings. The new flagship from Tenways has a load capacity of 250 kilograms. E-Power delivers a Bafang mid-motor in combination with a belt drive and a continuously variable internal gear hub. A 960-Wh battery enables ranges of 60 to 90 kilometers.
The equipment includes a central stand, hydraulic disc brakes from Tektro with four-piston brake calipers, Big Ben tires from Schwalbe, and a Suntour suspension fork. The Cargo One also features a large color display and connectivity via app.
Riese & Müller Carrie for City Dwellers
In contrast to the large and somewhat bulky representatives of its kind in the urban jungle, Riese & Müller offers a compact and flexible alternative with the new Carrie. With a length of 2.09 meters and a width of 46 centimeters, as well as small 20-inch wheels, the Carrie offers a manageable size.
Riese & Müller: Special Adaptations - Flex-Box Cargo Bike
Riese & Müller has developed some tailored cargo solutions, such as the Flex-Box, which remains relatively narrow in its closed state. When opened, it provides plenty of space for cargo, or, with the appropriate accessories (starting from €200), for up to two children. For child transport, the manufacturer also offers a cover. The bike weighs roughly 35 kilograms and can accommodate riders up to 110 kilograms and a total weight of up to 200 kilograms.
For support, the Performance-Line-Middle motor from Bosch is used. Alternatively, this can be combined with an Enviolo-Hub and a belt drive. The battery offers 545 Wh and can be upgraded to 725 Wh. The Carrie, which costs at least €5800, comes with a Suntour suspension fork, an adjustable handlebar stem, mudguards, lighting system, kickstand, spoke lock, and MT4 disc brakes from Magura.
First E-Cargo from Specialized: Turbo Porto
Specialized has introduced its first e-cargo bike in its 50-year history with the Turbo Porto. This compact, approximately 40 kg lightweight longtail can transport up to 160 kg including the rider on large cargo carriers at the front and the extended rear.
The Turbo Porto rides on a 24" wheel at the front and a 20" wheel at the rear. The flat aluminum frame allows for a low step-through height. Saddle and handlebar height can be adjusted for riders between 1.55 and 1.95 meters.
The XL cargo carrier can be used with various accessory solutions for different transport tasks. For propulsion, a 90 Newton-meter strong mid-motor in combination with a belt drive and a continuously variable Enviolo-Hub transmission is used. For the 710 Wh battery, Specialized claims a range of five hours, though without a mileage indication.
Noteworthy is the safety equipment, which includes mirrors, hydraulic disc brakes, a 500-lumen headlight, taillight, and a Garmin radar system. The latter warns of vehicles approaching from behind. An Abus spoke lock and a kickstand that can be activated via an app are also part of the standard equipment of the €6500 base version.
Gazelle Makki Travel with ABS
For added safety, the Gazelle Makki Travel comes equipped with an ABS system. The Long-John format is designed with a robust, versatile transport box, accommodating up to three children. With various accessory solutions, the cargo bike is suitable for many transport tasks. The e-bike, weighing 53.5 kilograms without the battery, has a maximum total weight of 250 kilograms.
The rider enjoys the power of the 85 Newton-meter robust mid-motor from Bosch, teamed with a belt drive and the smooth Nabenschaltung Enviolo Cargo. This motor can be paired with batteries of 400, 545, or 800 Wh capacity.
A standout feature is the integration of the ABS system from Bosch/Magura. This advanced technology minimizes the likelihood of accidents caused by overbraking. The Travel model comes equipped with a kickstand, a suspension fork for the front wheel, a cargo carrier, an LED lighting system, and an Abus spoke lock as standard features. Pricing starts at approximately €6700.
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The bike industry is not only focusing on improving the transport abilities of e-cargo bicycles but also integrating safety technology. For instance, the Gazelle Makki Travel comes equipped with an advanced ABS system to minimize overbraking risks.
As more people opt for e-cargo bikes as an eco-friendly and budget-friendly alternative to automobiles, the demand for versatile and child-friendly options has increased. The Tenways Cargo One, designed for parents, features integrated child seats and a spacious cargo box, making it suitable for transporting small kids and gear.
