Bicycles are a great way to get around—they’re a sustainable method of transportation that can save you money and allow you to zip past traffic with ease. But what if you need to carry more than just yourself? Maybe it’s a week’s worth of groceries, a couple of kids, or even tools for work. That’s where cargo bikes come in.
In this article, we’ll break down what cargo bikes are, how they work, and why they could transform the way you get things done. If you’re curious about whether a cargo bike or even an electric cargo bike could fit into your lifestyle, keep reading!
Contents
- What is a cargo bike?
- What's the difference between a cargo bike and a traditional bike?
- What kind of cargo bikes are there?
- Do you need an electric cargo bike?
- What are the benefits of having a cargo bike?
- So, should you get a cargo bike?
What is a cargo bike?
A cargo bike is a type of bicycle designed to carry heavier cargo, multiple passengers, or both at the same time. And when we say "cargo," we mean serious cargo—not just a small bag of groceries or a picnic basket.
Unlike a regular bike, cargo bikes are designed with features and components that make what would otherwise be un-haulable on a regular bike possible. With sturdier frames and specific cargo-carrying features, bringing along large cargo or passengers opens up new doors for you and your family’s daily routine.
The Tern Quick Haul Long is an electric bike for families and can carry up to two kids, an adult, or lots of stuff on its rear rack.
Mind you, the Short Haul might look compact but is built for the long run. It’s a cargo bike suited for daily errands and small business deliveries.
The Tern GSD family ebike usually carries around kids and groceries, but it’s also capable of hauling a surfboard! Photo by Zeke Smith.
The Tern Orox is an adventure e-cargo bike built for explorers—suited for off-roading while you bring all the camping and fishing gear you need.
What's the difference between a cargo bike and a traditional bike?
While they share the same foundation as a traditional bike, cargo bikes are built with specific components and design features to handle heavier loads and offer a level of versatility that brings a whole new meaning to cycling. Here’s how they stand apart:
Materials and components
From the earliest points of designing a cargo bike, its purpose is to carry heavier loads. So, unlike road bikes or mountain bikes that may use something like carbon fiber for weight reduction, cargo bikes are built with stronger materials like thicker steel, allowing them to support heavier loads without bending or breaking, which would not be a fun time.
Extra weight also means extra stress on the other components of the bike. So, parts like the wheels, brakes, and even the kickstand of a cargo bike should be designed to withstand the things you bring along with you. Tern cargo bikes go through some of the most rigorous safety standards in the industry, ensuring durability and reliability under pressure. If you’d like to learn more about how Tern specs and builds its bikes, you can check out this article.
All that space!
Why choose between two shirts for your bikepacking trip when you can bring your whole closet? Many cargo bikes come with built-in cargo areas and platforms for additional accessories, cargo bikes provide more space for cargo, not at the expense of the rider, making it easier to transport groceries, kids, or even the occasional couch.
Tern cargo bikes can be fitted with a wide variety of accessories. From seats to bags or even additional platforms for cargo, your cargo bike can be tailored to suit your specific needs.
Improved stability under load
Stability is important for any bike, but it’s even more so when you're carrying heavy loads. Even if you managed to fit a week's worth of groceries on your average bike, it may be outright impossible to bike yourself home with all that stuff. With longer wheelbases and lower centers of gravity, good cargo bikes still provide a smooth and steadier ride even when carrying a lot of weight.
Bike geometry for comfort
Since you aren’t trying to shatter any speed records, cargo bikes are designed with a less aerodynamic but more upright geometry that makes riding far more comfortable so that you can get to your destination feeling good. Many models also have a low step-through frame, making it easier to hop on and off, whether you're loaded up or just heading out for a ride. Models like the Tern GSD and HSD even include suspension forks to absorb bumps, providing a smoother ride on uneven surfaces.
What kind of cargo bikes are there?
Cargo bikes come in many shapes and sizes. From bikes built specifically for carrying cargo (such as those Amazon delivery bikes), or bikes built for bringing your kids out for a picnic, chances are you will find a cargo bike for your purpose. We’ve narrowed it down to the two most basic types for you:
Rear-Loaders
Rear-loader cargo bikes, also known as long-tail cargo bikes, are more similar to your traditional bike. They have an extended rear rack to use for cargo and passengers, which allows you to carry all your things without feeling too different from cycling with a traditional bike.
Front-Loaders
A front-loader cargo bike, also known as a box bike, is a type of bicycle designed with a spacious cargo area in front of the rider.
A front-loader typically features a low, sturdy frame for extra stability and comes in two-wheeled and three-wheeled designs. The cargo space up front—whether an open platform or an enclosed box—lets you keep an eye on your passengers or gear while you ride. However, with their bulkier build, these bikes have a wider turning radius and aren’t as quick to avoid surprise road obstacles. The longer wheelbase adds to their stability, making them great for carrying heavy loads but a bit less agile than standard bikes.
An electric front-loader bike.
Photo by Marek Lumi on Unsplash
Do you need an electric cargo bike?
An electric cargo bike is like a regular cargo bike but with a power-up!
It’s fitted with an electric motor that gives you an extra boost—either by pedaling or throttle—making it a breeze to carry heavy loads, conquer hills, or cruise through town without breaking a sweat. Practical, eco-friendly, and convenient, cargo ebikes are a great alternative to a car for errands, commuting, or even delivery runs. Here are some scenarios where an electric cargo bike is a great choice:
- For hilly areas: Electric motors make hills a breeze. If you live in a city with steep terrain, an electric cargo bike takes the strain out of climbing hills, making your ride more manageable and enjoyable.
- For (extra) heavy loads: Carrying heavy loads can be tiring, especially over long distances. An e-cargo bike reduces the effort of pedaling, giving you extra power to carry larger or heavier loads without breaking a sweat.
- For longer commutes: If you have a longer commute, an electric cargo bike can help you cover the distance faster and with less fatigue. With motor assistance, you'll ride more often and enjoy the benefits of cycling without the exhaustion.
If you are interested in learning more, you can read this article about everything you need to know about cargo ebikes.
What are the benefits of having a cargo bike?
1. It saves you time
Skip traffic jams, school run queues, and endless parking hunts—cargo bikes let you breeze through congestion and take shortcuts cars can’t. That means less time stuck waiting and more time for what matters. Whether it’s school drop-offs or after-school activities, a cargo bike gets you there faster and stress-free.
2. It saves you money
Switching from a car to a cargo bike can save you money on fuel, insurance, and parking. With a one-time investment in a reliable, safety-certified bike, you’ll cut daily costs while staying practical. The more you ride, the quicker those savings add up!
3. It’s good for the environment
When you choose a cargo bike over a car, you’re not just saving time and money—you’re also making an eco-friendly choice that reduces emissions and your carbon footprint. Cycling instead of driving is a more sustainable way to get around, helping to protect the planet for the future.
4. It’s a lot more fun!
Cycling together as a family turns routine trips into enjoyable outings filled with fresh air and fun. Unlike driving, biking lets everyone experience the world up close. The slower pace gives you a chance to engage with your surroundings and makes everyday rides a bit more exciting. It's a simple way to turn mundane errands into memorable moments.
5. It’s good for your health
Finding time to exercise isn't always easy, but a cargo bike can make it different by turning daily errands into a workout. Pedaling with kids and cargo gives you a solid dose of cardio, helping to keep you active while getting things done. Also, cycling isn’t just great for your body—it’s a natural stress reliever, boosting your mood and energy levels in a way that sitting in traffic or dealing with crowded public transport never could.
So, should you get a cargo bike?
Here are a few questions to consider:
- Do you want the ability to carry cargo and passengers around whilst comfortably riding a bike?
- Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint and your monthly spending?
- Are you looking to switch up your daily routine to something more fun and interesting?
If the answer is yes to any of the above, then a cargo bike may be exactly what you are looking for! With so many cargo bike options available, there’s a great fit for every lifestyle. Ready to make the switch? Explore our range of cargo bikes and find the right one for you!
