What To Look For In A Cargo Bike

Front loading

There are typically two types of front-loading bikes available. The first is the town bike with a basket or crate on the front. The second is the more heavy-duty bucket-style cargo bike. 

There is some crossover between front loading and tricycle types. If we are taking tricycle to mean three wheels, then many front loading cargo bikes – particularly the Dutch ‘bakfiets’ style – feature two wheels at the front to help stabilise the bike.

One of the best things about a front-loading cargo bike is it requires less planning and thought about how your load is distributed, as it won’t impact your ride too much. 

It’s worth noting that smaller front-loading town bikes will be much easier to store due to their size. However, they cannot carry as much as the bucket-style cargo bike, which is better suited for transporting heavier loads. 

If you plan on using your cargo bike to carry the family around town, a front loader is a popular choice because it’s both easy to use and adaptable. Child seats can be easily fitted for the school run, as can a waterproof cover.

Rear Loading

Also known as a long-tail cargo bike, a rear-loading cargo bike looks like a standard bike but longer. Because they are not as wide as other styles, they are easier to store in the average home.

Designed to carry both cargo and children, it is perfect for families where the children can hold themselves upright but cannot ride independently. As a word of caution, when fully loaded, the rear-loading cargo bike can take a bit of getting used to and feel unsteady at first.

You can also use rear loading cargo bikes for much larger and extended panniers. The extended frame of the bike acts as a large traditional pannier rack, but giving you much more capacity for shopping and utility.

 

Other things to consider

If you are mulling over the various options available and are still unsure what type of cargo bike is best for you, the best advice we can offer is to go for a test ride to get a feel for the cargo bike. It is the best way to find a model that will work best for you. 

There are some other practical considerations which we will cover quickly below, particularly when it comes to parking and storing your cargo bike.

 

Do I need an electric cargo bike?

Most cargo bikes come with motorised pedal assist initiated by the rider to make your cycling experience more pleasant – or at least offer an electric option. Carrying a full load on a cargo bike would be hard without motorised assistance. 

An e-cargo bike means you can carry a full load, travel further, helping you comfortably replace most – if not all – of your day-to-day car usage.

How do I store my cargo bike at home?

Cargo bikes are by no means small or light items. For those without a garage, shed or garden access, it can be a challenge – especially for any users living in a high-rise flat or apartment. Carrying a cargo bike up and down stairs is certainly not recommended, nor is it even possible. 

If you lack a garage or shed space, your cargo bike needs to be stored outside. Some councils have started to install dedicated cargo bike parking hangars, but unfortunately, these are few and far between and certainly not a common find across the country. This leaves either finding space within your hallway, or looking into shared hire schemes.

With the luxury of garage and shed space, be sure to still securely lock your cargo bike even within a secured space.

 

How do I park a cargo bike?

Cargo bike parking requires no more than a Sheffield stand with adequate spacing. It is preferable that these spaces are properly reserved for cargo bikes and other non-standard bicycles.

Make sure to use a well-rated lock and use an extra cable if necessary to secure the wheels. Consider registering your bike with the Bike Register so in the worst case the police are able to identify the cargo bike correctly. You might even consider an alarm system to further protect it.

Ultimately, if you decide to take the plunge and invest in a cargo bike, we are sure you won’t regret it. Replacing car journeys with a cargo bike is hugely satisfying, with a much lower running cost, and the added benefits of an active travel lifestyle.