Best Cargo Bikes for Families
What You Need to Know about Cargo Bikes
While there are many ways to bike with kids—from bike seats to trailers to tandem bikes—in this article, we focus on the three styles of the family cargo bike: the Long John or Bakfiets, which has a cargo area in front; the Longtail, which has a room for kids in the back of the driver; and a Front Load Trike or Tadpole trike, which has a front cargo and three wheels for stability. Many of the bikes listed below are electric-assist, which makes biking with heavy loads or uphill much more enjoyable, according to cargo bike enthusiasts.
Let’s Talk Cost
While the high prices for many models are not for the faint of heart, some families justify the expense by using cargo bikes as a car replacement for daily school and grocery runs. If cost is still an issue, consider exploring the robust second-hand market, where cargo bikes can be purchased for a fraction of the cost, so be sure to check out our list of second-hand resources at end of the article. Also, if you’re wondering if a cargo bike is right for your family, ask yourself these 14 questions.
Best Long John Bikes (also called a Bakfiets)
1. The E-Cargo by Amsterdam Bicycle Company starting at $4,325
This e-cargo bike comes with several different options, including the classic long, the bolted box and the cruiser long with vintage looks. It has the latest model Shimano Steps electric assist system (E6100), a range of 35-75 miles, a two-gear auto gear hub and premium roller brakes that even work well in the rain.
Kids: Up to 2
Electric Assist: Yes
Pros:
- It’s designed and made by a well-known cargo bike company. It’s easy to ride and looks great.
Cons:
- Some assembly is required.
What owners say: “Our bikes are handmade to order in the Netherlands. They are engineered, built and checked to the highest standard in safety, durability and comfort, and require low maintenance. After all, our bicycles are made to be used daily, year-round and still last a lifetime, outside in the Dutch rain.” Read more.
Where to buy: amsterdam-bicycle.com
2. The Load 75 by Riese & Müller, starting at $7,629
This electric cargo bike from Riese & Müller comes 6% more outer length, but 50% more cargo space—with the same agility and maneuverability. You can customize the cargo space depending on your family’s needs—options include High Side Walls, Low Side Walls, Tarpaulin, Single or Double Child seat, Luggage Shelf, Child Rain Cover, Carrier and more.
Kids: up to 3.
Electric assist: Yes
Pros:
- This is a bike that both parents can use. There’s an angle- and height-adjustable stem and adjustable saddle height, so the seat position can be altered to accommodate body sizes from 1.50 m to 1.95 m and adapted to preferences from sporty to comfortable.
Cons:
- It’s pricier than other cargo bikes on the market.
What owners say: “With this bike, nothing can stand in the way of your family’s goals of world domination and fun times together! Check out that rain cover with the zip-up sides! Yay!” Read more
Where to buy: r-m.de/en-us
3. Bullitt Cargo Bikes by Larry vs Harry, Starting at $3,300
The Bullitt is considered one of the “most flexible” cargo bikes on the market, designed to be used as a completely customizable system, from colors to components and accessories. Designed in Copenhagen, the Larry vs Harry team has decades of great bike building on their resume.
Kids: 1-3 in box + possible rear seat add-on
Electric Assist: Yes
Pros:
- Narrow enough for city streets and bike lanes
- Light enough to ride without electric assist
- Modern interpretation of an older and tested bike design originating in Denmark
Cons:
- Steering can feel wobbly at first (the faster you go, the steadier is gets)
What the Pros Say: “The Bullitt Clockwork is light and nimble, and it is hard to come up with a load that can’t be carried on this bicycle.” Read more
Where to buy: larryvsharry.com
4. Family Bike, by Urban Arrow, $5,950
This Dutch company makes high-quality cargo bikes that use the newest technology and state-of-the-art materials to move people and freight through town in the fastest possible way. Their goal? Reduce the use of scooters and cars.
Kids: 1-3 in box, + possible rear seat add-on
Electric Assist: Yes
Pros:
- Narrow design perfect for navigating city streets
- New technology like Nuvinci hub gear and Bosch pedal assist
- Lots of customization options are available
Cons:
- It is a really big bike, both width, and length and we’ve heard turning is difficult
What owners say: “The Urban Arrow’s child-hauling and commuting setup is unbelievably swank. Considering all the features packed into it, the Urban Arrow feels shockingly light.” Read more
What the pros say: “With Dutch smarts, this electric motor-assisted cargo bike delivers the goods for a household. This is a bike with enormous potential to take the place of a car.” Read more
Where to buy: Urban Arrow
5. Yuba Bike’s Supercargo CL, $5,999
You’ll love the easy-to-load front box and the bamboo style that comes with it from this eBike from Yuba. The 20-inch wheels give it a lower center of gravity for easier maneuverability.
Kids: 1-3 in box, + possible rear seat add-on
Electric Assist: Yes
Pros:
- Holds the whole crew + cargo too, including the family pet!
- Has rider-friendly cable steering design for smooth and easy turning
Cons:
- One of the priciest bikes on the market
What owners say: “I can’t say enough good things about this bike! It has changed our lives and enabled us to ditch our second car. The kids (ages 1 and 4) absolutely love cruising around. “
Where to buy: Yuba Bike dealers
Best Long Tail Bikes
1. NEW: Flyer L885 by Radio Flyer starting at $1,995
This beloved red wagon company recently launched an eBike, cargo bike and eScooter line and families are thrilled. With lots of customizable options, you can pop two little ones in the back or even add on a 5-point harness Thule seat for even littler ones. The kid and cargo carrier is a great option when you ditch the kids and head out on a solo trip to the farmer’s market as it converts from a kid seat to a cargo basket.
Kids: 1-2
Electric Assist: Yes
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lots of compatible accessories to make it your own, including a Thule child seat
Cons:
What the pros say: “The bike feels light and nimble even on the lightest pedal-assist mode, which is where I felt most comfortable while pedaling.” Read more
Where to buy: flyer.radioflyer.com
2. RadWagon, by Rad Power Bikes, starting at $1,899
The Seattle-based start-up is looking to disrupt the electric bike industry with a direct-to-consumer model that is more cost-efficient than competitors. They use Velofix (like a Geek Squad for bicycles) to build, tune and deliver bikes.
Kids: 1-2 on back
Electric assist: yes
Pros:
- One of the most affordable e-bikes on the market
- Lots of customization options
Cons:
- Cheaper components, not having a dealer to rely on (though Velofix seems to have taken some of the pain out of assembly)
What owners say: “Overall, this bike is an amazing deal for the price.” Read more
What the pros say: “Affordable, feature-rich cargo-style electric bike with a stiffer and lighter frame because it’s not quite as long as some others.” Read more
Where to buy: RadPowerBikes.com
3. NEW: Comfort 2 by Charge Bikes, starting at $1899
Charge is a direct-to-consumer bike brand that has delivered a family-friendly cargo bike that’s perfect for city dwellers with storage on their mind. The Comfort 2 is an updated version of the best-selling Comfort Bike and is the first new model since the brand’s launch in 2020.
Kids: 1 on back
Electric assist: yes, five levels
Pros:
- Super easy assembly (you don’t even have to remember to thread the pedals on in the opposite directions as they just fold down)
- Space-saving storage with fold-down pedals and rotating handlebars
- Wider tires for a more stable ride with battery weight in the rear
- Available in candy red, white, and midnight blue
Cons:
- This bike has a thumb throttle so if you are used to the twist throttle, you’ll want to take note.
What owners say: “The Comfort 2 now also comes with enough rear-rack weight capacity for a child seat, making it perfect for families.” Read more
What the pros say: “The slim storage profile is what really sets the Charge Comfort 2 apart for me, and if you have an apartment or garage with limited room, you will greatly appreciate the folding handlebars and flip-down pedals.” Read more
Where to buy: chargebikes.com
4. Spicy Curry by Yuba starting, $4,999
This Northern California-based company has upgraded its popular e-bike with a Bosch CX Performance motor for hills and traction. A lightweight and stylish cargo bike that lets kids sit on the back of the bike while Mom or Dad pedals. The rear cargo seat can fit two kids in Yepp seats or up to three kids sans seats.
Kids: 1-3 on back
Electric assist: yes
Pros:
- Lightweight (about 60 lbs)
- a low rear deck over a 20” wheel for greater stability
Cons:
- The side-loaders (where kids place their feet) can scrape up against curbs and other objects.
What owners say: “The Spicy Curry was built from the ground up as an assisted cargo bike for hills. It is very different from their other models, from my perspective in a good way.” Read more
What the pros say: “The Spicy Curry is a mid-drive powered electric cargo bike from Yuba! The primary benefit is efficiency and power because the drive system leverages the same eight-speed drivetrain that you do as a rider!” Read more
Where to buy: Yuba Bike dealers
Related: Best Bicycles & Tricycles for All Ages & Stages
5. The Electric Boda Boda Compact Cargo by Yuba, $3,800
The Electric Boda Boda Compact Cargo features a way more compact style frame and has a Shimano STEPS motor for smooth electric-motor assist. It comfortably fits two kids or an (extra) adult, to a max weight of 244 lbs.
Kids: 1-2
Electric assist: Yes
Pros:
- Lightweight (about 55 lbs)
- Low rear deck over a 20” wheel for greater stability
- Easy to read Integrated Cycling Computer with speed, distance, trip time, clock, gear, estimated range, battery indication.
- Choose from a Step-Thru or Step-Over frame
- Always-charged front and rear LED lights
Cons: Only hauls one or two kids with less space for cargo.
What the experts say:
“This nimble, compact electric cargo bike is your complete car replacement” – Wired Magazine
“This Kid-Hauling Cycle Changed My Mind About Electric Bikes” – Fatherly
Where to buy: Yuba Bike dealers
6. Xtracycle Edgerunner eSwoop, starting at $4,999
The Bosch Performance motor lets you zip from work to school to soccer practice without breaking a sweat. It comes fully ready to carry kids and lots of cargo, right out of the box.
Kids: 1-3
Electrical assist: Yes
Pros:
- The Hooptie child enclosure is included in the original purchase price.
- Bosch electric-assist Performance motor has a top pedal-assist speed of 20 mph.
- Other cool features like battery integrated lights, a dual battery system for longer rides and a centered weight approach.
Cons:
- Not easy to transport somewhere else (plane or car).
- Visibility can be a problem depending on what accessories you have installed.
What owners say: “The Edgerunner feels the most ‘like a bike:’ it is zippy, peppy, and smooth.” Read more.
What pros say: Electric Bike Review chose the eSwoop as one of it’s coveted “Best Electric Cargo Bikes” for 2018/2019.
Where to buy: xtracycle.com
7. Big Fat Dummy, by Surly Bikes, starting at $3,175
This popular cargo bike allows passengers to be carried on the back with the use of the Dummy Rail Collars or the Thule Yepp Maxi Seat. It’s got fat tires for a sturdier ride, which is key when you’re hauling precious cargo!
Kids: 1-2
Electrical Assist: No
Pros:
- The extra-wide tires mean you might be able to do some trail riding with the kids in tow.
Cons:
- There are added costs (extra gear) if you want to tow passengers.
What owners say: “The BFD has exceeded my already high expectations for its stability, comfort, utility, versatility, and design. My daughter loves riding on the back and typically requests that we ride to school rather than take the bus. Even without a passenger, I love riding the BFD and leaving the car in the garage while I get both a workout and my jobs done.” Read more
Where to buy: surlybikes.com
Related: Amplify Your Ride! Best 15 Electric Bikes for Sale Right Now
8. Stretch, by Pedego, starting at $3,595
Founded in 2008, Pedego is one of the largest electric bike brands in America. They have their own dealers, as well as distribution through many bike shops and on Amazon. This makes it easy to purchase and service the bike. The Stretch has many cool features, like the powered USB port for your phone and audio.
Kids: 1-3
Pros:
- Pedego has a great reputation and many shops are familiar with the brand for service and repair
- The Stretch has can be accessorized with products from the Pedego line
Cons:
- We’ve been told the frame is stiff, so may not be as comfortable as other rides
What owners say: “It is a powerful, beautiful, cruiser style and is not only fun to ride but I get to choose how much I exert myself.” Read more
What the pros say: “ Pedego hit the price point well and make a bike that is as smooth as silk. The way E-bike control systems work is a big deal for me and I am happy to report this one is spot on.” Read more
Where to buy: a dealer near you.
Best Front Load Trike (also called a Tadpole)
1. Ferla Family Cargo Bike, starting at $2,999
Kids: 1-2
Electric Assist: Yes
Pros:
- The Samsung battery gives you a range of up to 45 miles.
- 4 x3 Harness belts and 2 roll cage bars are included in the price.
- It’s got comfy toddler seats.
- There’s a rear cargo rack.
Cons:
- It costs more to have a fully assembled bike delivered.
What the owners say: “Ferla Bikes has been manufacturing innovative commercial tricycles since 2013. A pure expression of passion for Cargo Bikes, Ferla Family Bike was the perfect project for us. As a world leader in this niche, Ferla Bikes have always believed in the power of quality & design. Ferla Family is in safe hands.”
What the pros are saying: “The bike is very spacious, there are no more problems with taking all our staff with us, it can be easily stored inside the cargo box, so we can go a long distance and have everything we need with us. The bike is also very reliable, the battery lasts us very long, it is very easy to steer, the brakes are really powerful and the bike itself is stable.” See another review on YouTube here.
Where to buy: Ferla Family Bikes
2. Family Cargo Bike by Bunch Bikes, starting at $3,999
Gather your tribe and get ready to explore your community in this three-wheeled cargo bike—electric motor optional! Easy-release levers make changing the seat and handlebar height a breeze, so adults of all sizes can hop on and pedal away (good luck with those hills).
Kids: 1-5. This cargo box comes equipped with two benches and four child seat belts, and a standard bike child seat can be installed on the rear rack to squeeze in one more passenger.
Electric Assist: Yes
Pros:
- Arrives at your doorstep fully assembled and ready to ride!
- There’s a full line of accessories for the bike: Seat cushions, front door, sunshade, rain cover, infant/toddler seats, and brand-new vinyl graphics.
Cons:
- It’s heavy and that may add to shipping costs.
What owners say: “I cannot say enough good things about our new Bunch Bikes! The kids love this thing y’all – it’s so much fun to ride ♥️ It’s a game-changer to have that e-assist for the hills 👍” Read more
Where to buy: bunchbike.com
3. The School Bus by Virtue Cycles, starting at $2,149
This made-in-San Diego cargo bike lets kids sit in a big cargo box and go for a ride. The Virtue Schoolbus put parents at ease with the front. It also allows them to have good quality time chatting without having to keep looking back.
Kids: 1-3 in box, + possible rear seat add-on
Electric Assist: Yes
Pros:
- Stability of three wheels
- Being able to see the kids
- Only an extra $800 to have the battery, motor, and control system added to the standard Schoolbus
Cons:
- Steering is different than many other cargo bikes
- It’s heavy and that may add to the shipping cost
What owners say: “There’s a lot to recommend about the Schoolbus. I wanted to see the kids while I was riding. I can pull over if my toddler drops something, I never have to worry if a car is getting too close to the trailer – I know right where everyone is.” Read more
What the pros say: “Designed to be stable for loading his kids, positioning them out front where you could keep an eye on them and have conversations during rides. “ Read more
Where to buy: Virtue Cycles Dealers
4. Family, by Nihola, starting at $4,799
For 18-years, this Danish company has developed, produced, sold these proprietary tricycles for families, as well as for rehab/handicap-, institutional- and commercial use. There are over 10,000 Nihola bikes in Copenhagen alone, so this bike is tried and tested.
Kids: 1-3 in box, + possible rear seat add-on
Electric assist: yes
Pros:
- The solid frame design built to withstand impact
- The front door opens for easily onboarding kids and pets
- The Nihola Flex version can transport a wheelchair
Cons:
- Few US distributors may increase the delivery cost
What owners say: “Nihola Electric Family Cargo Bike is an excellent bike for leisurely strolls around town when you are not in a rush. It’s very handy for transporting heavy goods and also more than one child on the bike.” Read more
What the Pros Say: “The Nihola is a better value and lower cost, it’s really the best three-wheel solution available.” Read more
Where to buy: Nihola dealers
5. Butchers & Bicycles MK-1E, Starting at $5,999
If Apple designed an electric bicycle, it would be the MK-1E. From beautiful design to performance and state-of-the-art utility (a tricycle the leans), the MK-1E has taken the biking world by storm since it launched in 2015.
Kids: 1-3 in box, + possible rear seat add-on
Electric assist: yes
Pros:
- Tilt steering makes it really fun to ride
- Beautiful design attracts attention
- Attention to details, like a lockable glove box
Cons:
- One of the most expensive e cargo bikes on the market
- It’s wide, so can be difficult to maneuver on narrow city streets
What owners say: “When I saw the Butcher, I was blown away. It was fast. It was sexy. It hauled a ton of cargo. It handled like a two-wheeler. It was the coolest cargo bike I had ever seen.” Read more
What the pros say: “Unlike any other trike I’ve ridden, this tilting machine is beautiful to ride. It’s as fun to ride as a two-wheeled bike, providing—and in fact encouraging—the full-body experience of steering through the hips and leaning into the turns.” Read more
Where to buy: Butchers & Bicycles dealers
Where to Find Second Hand Cargo Bikes
From DC to Nashville, Chicago and Portland, there are Facebook Family Biking Groups that share local tips, trails as well as buy and sell used gear. Search for “Family Biking” on Facebook under “Groups.”
In bigger biking communities, like San Francisco and Seattle, there are also “Family Bike Swap” Facebook Groups focused exclusively on selling gear online and at swap events.
Our Favorite Electric Bikes
We’ve also done the research on the best electric bikes for families, and you can get all the details by clicking here!
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