Chances are that if you’re reading this, you’re considering getting an electric cargo bike. Because why not? 😄 E-cargo bikes are a game-changer for families, businesses, and anyone looking for a more efficient and sustainable way to get around. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? To help you in your decision, here are our five key tips.
Contents
- Tip 1: Determine what you’ll be carrying most of the time
- Tip 2: Think about your accessory setup
- Tip 3: Know how you can store the bike at home or work
- Tip 4: Don’t forget about safety!
- Tip 5: Visit an electric cargo bike dealer for a test ride
- So, what do you need to know about choosing an e-cargo bike?
Tip 1: Determine what you’ll be carrying most of the time
As a first step, you could ask yourself, “What will I be carrying most of the time?” You'll want a bike that fits into your daily routine and adapts as your life evolves—whether you're welcoming a new child, moving to a different neighborhood, or exploring a new hobby.
An electric cargo bike should be a long-term companion, growing with your family and keeping up with your changing needs. A bike’s carrying capacity is a big deal! So, good for you, Tern e bikes’ cargo space can easily be expanded with a wide range of accessories. More on this later.
Some bikes, like the Tern GSD or the Quick Haul Long, can carry up to two kids or even an adult passenger. These bikes don’t just get the job done when it comes to transporting you and your passengers—they can also be shared with your partner when it’s their turn to pedal!
Think about your primary use case—school drop-offs, grocery hauls, or commuting—and choose an e bike with the right capacity and accessories to match. But if you’re the adventurous type and more into off-roading, you might want to look into the Orox. 👀
Tip 2: Think about your accessory setup
When we talk about accessorizing, it isn’t really about going all out with every color or glitter, or adding fairy lights (but we wouldn’t stop you if you did). It’s more about choosing the right accessories so you can carry more and organize your stuff better. Why? The right accessories can improve your eBike’s versatility by A LOT. Do you need passenger seats? Weather protection for your kids? Extra cargo space?
If your answer to any of these is ‘yes’, rest assured that Tern offers a wide range of modular accessories, allowing you to customize your bike to fit your lifestyle. Investing in the right add-ons can make your riding experience even more enjoyable and practical. Here are some examples of accessory setups that you can consider, ranging from the standard to perhaps less expected.
Clubhouse: 2-in-1 Passenger & Cargo Hub
The Clubhouse is a super versatile rail system that can hold passengers in or out of compatible child seats. It even has attachment points for bottle cage holders or the RidePouch for quick access to smaller stuff.
No rain, no complaints
The Clubhouse Fort is a weather canopy that doubles as a cargo hauler. It keeps the kids’ nagging and the rain out—but to make this work, don’t forget to close the Storm Shield or Rain Shield before the ride.
More cargo? We’ve got more solutions
If you’re looking to carry extra-large loads, know that Tern electric cargo bikes can easily tow a trailer. When carrying fragile items, you could put them in a box or the WeatherTop Bag on the Transporteur Rack in the front.
Pack, pedal, and reel in the fun
Whether it’s an escape to the beach or a solo fishing trip, an e cargo bike can get you there. The Cargo Hold 72 Panniers bike bags (available in three other sizes) give you the space to pack everything you need, but be sure to keep your fish cool and fresh in the WeatherTop Cooler.
Switch seats, share the ride, double the fun
Seriously, let’s make ‘bikepooling’ a thing. Wouldn’t it be great to drop off your partner at the office in style? And after a hard day’s work, it’ll be your turn to chill in the Captain’s Chair and let them pedal home or to your favorite restaurant for a night out.
The Paw-fect Passenger
Wait, what? Pets are passengers too??? YES, and they shouldn’t miss out on the fun. Did you expect something like the Doghouse Mini to appear on this list? FYI, when your furry friend isn’t joining, you can use the Soft Crate Mini as a cargo compartment.
Tip 3: Know how you can store the bike at home or work
OK, so we’ve mentioned how important it is to have plenty of space on your bike to accommodate your particular needs—yes, even your interesting collection of fishing rods, golf clubs, or even your beloved surfboard. But where are you going to store your bike when you’re not on the road?
The reality is that not all cargo bikes are created equal when it comes to storage and parking maneuverability. Some bikes are bulky and require a dedicated parking space (like a front-loader), while others are more compact and easy to store. If you have limited storage or need to navigate tight city spaces, you’ll want to have a more space-efficient model that still delivers on carrying capacity. This is where Vertical Parking and FlatFold come in.
FlatFold Mode is especially useful when you want to go on a trip but don’t want to leave your favorite ride behind.
Vertical Parking is just as it sounds—made possible to store your Tern e-bike upright! This feature is great for homes without dedicated bike storage, allowing you to park your bike safely in corners, hallways, or tight spots in your living room. With Vertical Parking, your bike can be stored indoors or outdoors and fit in narrower spaces with ease.
Also, what if you want to take your bike with you on a trip? When you need to use your car, you can make room for your cargo bike and explore your destination on your own trusted ride. Sounds pretty great, right? Some Tern e cargo bikes feature a FlatFold mode, allowing the seatpost to be lowered completely while the bike's cockpit folds in a way that makes it easy to fit into tight spaces, like a car trunk or your apartment hallway. As an example, check out how FlatFold works here on the HSD.
Tip 4: Don’t forget about safety!
Safety should always come first! Your bike’s frame, motor, battery, and electrical system aren’t just about power and performance—they need to be tough enough to handle the road and weather, too. That’s why it’s so important to choose an electric cargo bike that meets safety standards, ensuring you can ride far, carry more, and do it all with confidence. Here are some fundamental safety-related aspects you need to factor into your decision as you choose a cargo electric bike.
4.1. See if the bike frame has been tried and tested
The frame is the backbone of a cargo bike—it literally holds all the parts together and carries the load. That’s why it needs to be strong enough to handle the rigors of the road, tough weather, and extra weight from cargo or passengers. To ensure that our bikes are up to this task, Tern puts its bike frames through some of the most rigorous tests in the bicycle industry.
The result? High load capacities, like 180 kg (397 lb) for the HSD and even 210 kg (463 lb) for the GSD and Orox. But ultimately, these numbers translate to peace of mind, knowing that you’re riding a bike that can reliably get you to your destination safe and sound.
Tern e cargo bikes use the Bosch eBike System to move you forward safely!
4.2. Understand the importance of battery, motor, and system safety
Tern e-cargo bikes are powered by the Bosch eBike System, which includes a motor, battery, and display. The motor provides pedal assist to help you ride farther and carry heavier loads, while the battery supplies the necessary power to keep you moving. Without it, the motor won’t function! And with the display, you can control the bike's functions, such as how much assistance you get. Bosch systems are known for their reliability, ensuring a smooth and efficient ride.
Like the bike frame, the Bosch eBike System undergoes rigorous safety testing. It meets the UL 2849 standard, a voluntary e-bike battery safety certification with strict requirements to prevent electrical, mechanical, and fire hazards. This standard doesn’t just cover the battery—it evaluates the entire e-bike system to ensure top-level safety and reliability. To understand more about e-bike battery safety, we’ve got you covered with this article. Each Tern bike model features a specific Bosch motor and battery setup, so the range will vary depending on the bike.
Some Tern bike models come with Bosch eBike System 2, while others have the Bosch Smart System for app connectivity and smart features. No matter which Tern bike or system you choose, you can count on a smooth, worry-free ride with plenty of technological power to get you where you need to go! To learn more about our collaboration with Bosch to create safe and sturdy e-cargo bikes, here are our five reasons why.
Tip 5: Visit an electric cargo bike dealer for a test ride
When it comes to finding the right e-cargo bike for you, nothing beats a visit to your local bike dealer. They can help ensure the bike fits you properly, which is essential for both comfort and performance, especially if you plan to ride it daily. A test ride allows you to experience how the bike handles and functions, helping you make an informed decision. Additionally, a dealer can recommend accessories that suit your carrying needs to help you get the most out of your bike.
Your local bike shop is your go-to resource for ongoing service and support. Whether you need adjustments, maintenance, or repairs, they’ll help keep your e-cargo bike in top shape. A trusted dealer plays an important role in your riding experience, ensuring your bike stays reliable for years to come. So, for the best fit and expert advice, head to your nearest cargo bike dealer and take your future ride for a spin.
As you prepare for your appointment, be sure to read our handy tips on how to test ride an electric cargo bike, such as communicating your needs with your dealer, dressing comfortably for the ride, and bringing passengers along.
So, what do you need to know about choosing an e-cargo bike?
As you’re browsing through a whole bunch of cargo bikes, we recommend you keep the following things in mind:
- Know your cargo needs: Consider what you’ll be carrying most often—kids, groceries, work equipment—and choose a bike with the right capacity and flexibility to grow with your needs.
- Pick the right accessories: The right accessories can transform your bike’s functionality. Look for child seats, bike bags, weather protection for passengers, or even pet carriers to maximize versatility.
- Consider your storage options: Cargo bikes vary in size. If space is tight, remember that Tern bike features like Vertical Parking or FlatFold make storage easier at home or on the go.
- Prioritize safety: Choose a bike with a strong, tested frame and an eBike system that meets safety standards. A well-built e-cargo bike ensures durability, stability, and peace of mind.
- Go for a test ride: Make an appointment with your nearest cargo bike dealer. Come prepared with questions, wear comfortable clothing, and bring other riders or passengers with you.
Choosing the right electric cargo bike comes down to your unique needs—whether it’s for family adventures, daily commutes, or more. And if you’re looking for a reliable, well-designed e-cargo bike, Tern has plenty of options worth exploring.
