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How to Carry Cargo on the Short Haul

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Thanks to its extra-strong, extra-long rear rack and front Combo Mount, the Short Haul can carry way more cargo than a typical city bike.

This article will explain how much you can carry, provide cargo loading tips, and introduce the Short Haul’s cargo accessory lineup.

Contents

What is the Short Haul’s Max Gross Vehicle Weight?

The Short Haul’s Max Gross Vehicle Weight (MGVW) is 140 kg (308 lb).

MGVW is the maximum weight that a bike has been designed to carry safely. The weight of the Bicycle* + Accessories + Rider(s)** + Cargo + Trailer*** must be less than the MGVW for safe riding.

*Bicycle = Refers to weight of the bike plus battery(ies)

**Rider(s) = Refers to weight of the cyclist and any passengers

***Trailer = Refers to weight of the trailer with no braking system AND weight of any cargo or passenger(s) on the trailer. Trailers with a braking system should not be included in the MGVW calculation. 

For reference, the Short Haul weighs just under 16.1 kg (35.4 lb).

How much cargo can I carry on the Short Haul’s rear rack?

The Short Haul’s rear Atlas Q Rack is rated to 50 kg (110 lb). That means the rack has been tested and proven reliable up to that load limit.

Keep in mind that this load limit includes the cargo weight, the weight of your passenger (if any), plus the weight of any rear rack accessories.

How much cargo can I carry on a front rack?

Optionally, you can use the Short Haul’s Combo Mount to attach a front rack. The Combo Mount’s weight capacity is 20 kg (44 lb). Keep in mind that this limit includes the rack itself.

What’s the right way to load cargo on the Short Haul?

There’s no one “right way” to load cargo, but there are some best practices you should be aware of:

  • Place heavier items on the bottom of racks, panniers, baskets, and boxes. A low center of gravity is key for safe and easy handling.
  • Balance cargo evenly on your bike. Avoid putting all of your heavy items on one side of the bike.
  • Firmly secure all cargo to the bike. Use Batten Straps or bungee straps to tie down loose items and prevent them from moving around or falling off the bike during transport.
  • Respect the load limits of all accessories. Bear in mind that each accessory has its own load limit that’s separate from the bike’s carrying capacity.

Available Cargo Accessories

Rear Racks

Clubhouse Mini

The Clubhouse Mini creates a mini cargo cabin on the back of the Short Haul. Fill the 400 x 400 mm interior space with your own box or crate, or add the Soft Crate Mini for a perfect fit.


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502 × 532 × 243 mm

Cargo Tray

The Cargo Tray creates a strong, generously sized cargo platform atop the Short Haul’s rear rack. The L-shape is perfect for hauling XXL stuff that won't fit in a crate or basket.


30 kg


458 × 396 × 172.5 mm

Shortbed Tray

The Shortbed Tray is a heavy-duty rear rack that you can mount parallel or perpendicular. Fits standard 600 x 400 mm Eurocrates and coolers.


35 kg


446 × 627 × 81 mm

Storm Box Mini (with Clubhouse Mini)

When combined with the Clubhouse Mini, the Storm Box Mini transforms the rear of the Short Haul into a roomy weather-protected bucket with a lockable lid.


40 kg


100 L


475 × 460 × 550 mm

Captain’s Chair + Joyride Bars

Remove the cushion and use this combo to carry a crate or box when no passenger is on board. There’s room for a box about 320 mm wide (box length and height depends on your exact setup)..


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533 × 565 × 257 mm
(Captain's Chair only)

Front Racks

Transporteur Rack

The Transporteur Rack is a modular front cargo carrier that fits a 300 x 400 mm Eurocrate, a standard crate of 20 beers, or a recycled wooden box.


20 kg


430 × 420 × 267 mm

Hauler Rack

The Hauler Rack is an open-ended rack that is big enough to carry bulky cargo but small enough to let you easily maneuver the bike.


20 kg


320 × 315 × 215 mm

Bags & Panniers

WeatherTop Bag

The WeatherTop Bag is a rugged and waterproof 45L carryall that goes from your rack to your shoulder in seconds. Fits perfectly on the Hauler and Transporteur Racks.


15 kg per pannier


45 L


400 × 300 × 350 mm

Cargo Hold 37 Panniers

Your hardworking basic. You can use the Cargo Hold 37 Panniers as a roll-top or in Bucket Mode for oversized cargo. Fidlock® buckles make opening and closing a snap.


15 kg per pannier
(30 kg per pair)


37 L per pannier
(74 L per pair)


435 × 200 × 310 mm (folded)

Cargo Hold 28 Pannier

A rolltop and waterproof-lined pannier with a weather-resistant exterior for your daily haul. Opens with a Fidlock® magnetic buckle for zero-fuss access. Compatible with a child seat when you take your kid with you on a quick errand.


9 kg


28 L


330 × 200 × 310 mm

Tern Glovebox

The water-resistant Tern Glovebox fits perfectly between the Short Haul’s top and down tubes. Use it to stash your wallet, keys, chain lock, or anything else you need close at hand.


2 kg


1.9 L


305 × 124 × 115 mm

Carryall Trunk

The Carryall Trunk is a convenient storage compartment on the rear section of the Short Haul. Fill it with ride essentials such as a water bottle, change of clothes, and road snacks.


5.5 L


395 x 260 x 123 mm

Soft Crate Mini

The Soft Crate Mini is a removable cargo carrier that fits inside the Clubhouse Mini. Carries up to 37 L of whatever and doubles as a dog carrier (add the Dog Roof Mini).


37 L


405 × 405 × 220 mm

For Stability

DuoStand

The DuoStand is a sturdy, height-adjustable dual-leg kickstand for the Short Haul that provides extra stability when loading and unloading. Highly recommended for heavy cargo.


60 kg

Lockstand Extensions

If you need to carry an XXL load with your panniers stuffed full, you can add the Lockstand Extensions to the DuoStand to make it even more stable (the Lockstand itself can't be installed on a Short Haul).


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Note: The square icon  refers to the outer dimensions of the accessory.

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