WHAT IS AN Electric Cargo Bike?

Electric cargo bikes are bicycles that are specifically designed to carry cargo or passengers with the assistance of an electric motor.

They have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their many benefits.

Some of these benefits include:

Environmentally friendly: Electric cargo bikes provide less impact to the environment, produce zero emissions and do not contribute to air pollution.

Cost-effective: They are cheaper to operate than a car or truck, as they require no fuel or car parking fees and have lower maintenance costs.

Convenient: They can be ridden in the network of bike lanes and do not require a driver's license or registration.

Health benefits: Riding an electric cargo bike is a great way to get exercise and can help improve overall fitness levels.

Versatile: They can be used for a variety of purposes, including commuting, carrying children, errands, and commercial deliveries.

Efficient: They can navigate through traffic and congested areas more easily than cars or trucks.

Fun and enjoyable: Many people find riding electric cargo bikes to be a fun and enjoyable way to get around.

Overall, electric cargo bikes are a very capable, great alternative to traditional forms of transportation, and can provides numerous benefits to individuals, familes, businesses, and the environment.

What can you carry on an e-cargo bike?

Carry all sorts of cargo and things

Carry the kids (1 or 2)

Even carry a dog (or pet)

Electric cargo bikes are highly versatile and can be used to transport a wide range of items, including cargo, children, and pets.

Here's a brief summary of how electric cargo bikes can be used for these purposes:

Cargo: Electric cargo bikes can transport large and heavy items, such as groceries, postage items, furniture, or tools.

Children: Electric cargo bikes can be equipped with child seats or child-carrying cargo boxes to transport children safely and comfortably.

Pets: Electric cargo bikes can also be used to transport pets. There are cargo boxes that are designed to carry dogs, cats, or other pets.

The ability to transport cargo, children, and pets makes electric cargo bikes a highly versatile and practical form of transportation that can be used for a variety of purposes.

Save money from car expenses
Save time from traffic and parking

Skip the fuel station and carparks

More scenic routes

Low impact exercise

Electric cargo bikes provide numerous benefits beyond their ability to transport cargo, children, and pets.

Here's a summary of some of the other benefits:

Save money on car expenses: Electric cargo bikes are much cheaper to operate than cars, vans, trucks, or SUVs. They don't require fuel or parking fees, which can result in significant cost savings over time.

Save time in heavy traffic and skip car parks: Electric cargo bikes can help you save time by avoiding heavy traffic and reducing the amount of time spent looking for parking. They can also access laneways and areas that are inaccessible to cars, making them a great option for navigating through crowded city streets.

Mental and health benefits of low-impact exercise: Riding an electric cargo bike provides low-impact exercise, which can improve your overall fitness and well-being. Cycling has also been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health.

More scenic routes: Electric cargo bikes provide an opportunity to explore new and interesting routes that may not be accessible by car. They can also take you on more scenic and enjoyable routes that allow you to enjoy your surroundings while you commute.

Utilizing bike-specific lanes and routes: Melbourne and the major Australian cities along with surrounding suburbs have bike-specific lanes and routes, which can make cycling safer and more efficient. Electric cargo bikes can take advantage of these bike lanes and routes, providing a safer and more enjoyable ride.

In summary, electric cargo bikes offer a range of benefits beyond their ability to transport cargo, children, and pets.

They can help you save money, time, and provide mental and physical health benefits, while allowing you to explore new routes and utilize bike-specific infrastructure.

2 main types of Electric Cargo Bikes

Rear cargo area

Front cargo area

There are two main types of electric cargo bikes: rear loading and front loading.

Rear loading electric cargo bikes are designed with a large cargo rack or platform mounted behind the rider. This design allows for larger and heavier cargo to be transported, such as groceries, furniture, or tools. Rear loading cargo bikes are also easier to maneuver and park, making them a great option for urban environments.

Front loading electric cargo bikes have a cargo area, box or basket mounted in front of the rider. This design allows for better visibility of the cargo and passengers, and can provide a more stable and balanced ride.

Both rear loading and front loading electric cargo bikes provide numerous benefits, the choice between the two types ultimately depends type of cargo, intended use and the specific needs of the rider.

Customise your Electric Cargo Bike based on your carrying needs

Cargo racks

Cargo racks can be added to the front or rear of the bike to provide additional storage space for large or heavy items.

Panniers

Panniers are bags that attach to the sides of the bike and can be used to carry groceries, clothing, or other items.

Baskets

Front or rear baskets can be added to carry smaller items, such as books, snacks, or water bottles.

Child seats

Child seats can be added to the front or rear of the bike to safely transport children.

Loading straps

Loading straps can be used to secure cargo or other items to the bike.

Bags

Saddle bags or handlebar bags can be added to the bike to provide additional storage space for smaller, personal items such as mobile phones, glasses and keys.

Electric cargo bikes are highly customizable and can be equipped with a range of accessories and add-ons to suit the needs of the rider.

Other customizable options may include lighting, fenders to improve safety and comfort.

The ability to customize electric cargo bikes makes them a highly versatile form of transportation that can be tailored to the rider's specific needs and preferences.

Take the kids on a e-Cargo bike ride

Here's a short practical video clip showing taking 2 kids around on a e-cargo bike.

Frequent Asked Questions

What is an electric cargo bike?

An electric cargo bike is a bicycle that has been specially designed to carry cargo or passengers with the assistance of an electric motor.

How fast can electric cargo bikes go?

The top speed of an electric cargo bike can vary depending on the model, but most electric cargo bikes have an electrically powered assistance top speed of around 25 kph (As per Australian E-Bike requirements/law), you’d go faster on a downhill or if you want to pedal on top of the 25 kph.

How much weight can an electric cargo bike carry?

The weight capacity of an electric cargo bike can vary depending on the model, but most electric cargo bikes can carry between 90-200 kg

How far can electric cargo bikes travel on a single charge?

The range of an electric cargo bike can vary depending on the battery capacity, load and the terrain.

But most electric cargo bikes can travel up to 100 km on a single charge, even further if opted with dual batteries.

Do electric cargo bikes require a license or registration?

The laws for e-bikes in Australia are quite simple.

All Australian e-bikes should be EN15194 Certified bikes and to be ridden on public roads, e-bikes must:

Have a motor that is 250 watts or less.

If it has a throttle (that powers the bike without pedalling), have a motor that is 200 watts or less.

Top power-assisted speed limited to 25 kilometres per hour

Throttles are allowed on 250w motors if limited to 6km/h (to assist with walking the bike).

A person must still be able to propel the bicycle via pedals without the motor operating.

Meeting the above criteria and will not require a license or registration of your e-bike.

How much do electric cargo bikes cost?

The cost of an electric cargo bike can vary depending on the model and the features, but most quality electric cargo bikes cost between $3,850-$8,500+

Can electric cargo bikes be used for commercial purposes?

Electric cargo bikes require maintenance like a regular bike, including checking and adjusting the brakes, tires, and chain, as well as maintaining the battery and motor.

What maintenance is required for electric cargo bikes?

Electric cargo bikes require maintenance like a regular bike, including checking and adjusting the brakes, tires, and chain, as well as maintaining the battery and motor.

Are electric cargo bikes easy to ride?

Yes, electric cargo bikes are designed to be easy to ride and can be operated by anyone who knows how to ride a bicycle.