Top Questions Answered For Folks Exploring the World of Cargo
by Jamie Tibbetts, Xtracycle Community Engagement Manager
E-cargo biking is emerging as a sustainable and invigorating way to navigate the daily hustle & bustle. For those new to the form of transportation, here we unravel frequently asked questions about electric cargo bikes.
1. How much should I expect to pay?
E-Cargo bikes range from $1,000 to $10,000. For a solid, well built bike with a name-brand motor, sturdy components, warranty and support, you will rule out anything under $3k. On the upper end, you’re paying a lot more for features you aren’t likely to need in everyday situations.
$5-6k may give you sticker shock if you’re still thinking of bikes as toys or leisure items. But when you understand that electric cargo bikes can be your daily transportation, the savings over a car (or 2nd car) are huge. For the cost of an annual car payment you can buy a quality e-cargo bike that can carry just as many passengers and last 25+ years.
2. So, is it really worth it?
Absolutely, cargo bikes are worth it in three big ways:
Pocketbook - With 64% of trips within 0-5 miles and 79% within 10 miles of home*, a cargo bike is a viable alternative for many daily errands, commutes, and family outings. Requiring $0.00 in gas, registration, or insurance, and nominal maintenance, they can lead to reduced car ownership** and substantial cost savings.
Convenience - No more circling for parking or traffic jams. You can easily pull right up to your destination to shop for groceries or drop off kids. The increased carrying capacity allows you to run multiple errands and transport larger loads, all with one less car on the road.
Happiness - The greatest reward! You’re moving your body, getting fresh air, and connecting your kids to the world around them in a way a car simply can’t. Alongside the proven environmental and health benefits of cycling, there’s great value in being an active family that rides together.
* Green Car Congress, ** Transportation Research Journal
3. Is it hard to ride with kids on the back?
Surprisingly, no! It’s just like riding a bike.
A well-designed e-cargo bike has a natural ride feel, even when loaded. Unlike a classic bike + kid seat set-up, the weight of your child or cargo is much lower to the ground, bringing your center of gravity down. The length of the bike does not make as much of a difference as you might think. Turning is the same, and the motor picks up the slack of pedaling the heavier load. If you’re comfortable riding a bike you’ll be comfortable riding an Xtracycle.
4. How fast does it go? How far can it go?
As fast and as far as you’re likely to want.
Around town, on bike paths and in bike lanes, most riders rarely need to exceed 15mph, and a 20mph top speed motor (known as a Class 1 motor) gives you room to speed up. A 28mph top speed bike (known as Class 3) is a great option for people who need to go farther and want to get there faster, for example, the morning trip to drop the kids at school, and then a commute into work downtown.
With up to a 60-mile range many can ride the better part of a week without worrying about charging the bike. That’s also long enough for a big weekend outing with two or three kids and all the gear you need.
5. How safe are they?
Safety is a valid concern, especially when transporting precious family members. Being an alert, informed rider and choosing a well-built, reliable cargo bike with top safety features, contributes to your overall safety. While no mode of transportation is entirely risk-free, car accidents pose a much greater threat to family safety than riding a bike. Invest in proper safety gear and follow traffic rules.
At Xtracycle, safety is our top priority–all rides come with quick-response, 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes for superior stopping power, and no-lag pedal assist motors for a smooth ride. Our first-of-its-kind modular Hooptie system features a full wrap-around kid enclosure with protective dual hand-rails, designed to keep little hands safe and even help protect your children in the event of a crash.
BONUS QUESTION
How long am I really going to use it?
The answer just might be forever.
While it's easy to think cargo bikes are just for life with small kids, Xtracycle's modular Hooptie system grows with changing needs. The HalfHooptie allows independent kids (think 6+) the ability to get on & off more easily, while SnackBars accommodate partners and teens comfortably – especially if cargo biking becomes a family habit early.
But these bikes aren’t just for hauling kids – they are workhorses for hauling groceries, Costco runs, and odd-sized items tough to fit in cars. With a proven track record and quality built to last, an Xtracycle is a blast to ride. Considering that a fully-kitted Xtracycle breaks down to just $50.00 a month over a 10 year span – a fraction of monthly car costs of gas, insurance, maintenance – an e-cargo bike can pay both financial and happiness dividends for decades to come.
