Cargo bikes take on many forms, ranging from the traditional Long John to custom built four-wheel frames using pedal assist motors.
The Long John Cargo Bike
The Long John bicycle was developed in Denmark. The bike has a very long wheel base and traditionally has a small front wheel. The cargo area is low to ground which is useful in keeping heavy loads stable. There is a “linkage system” connecting the steering from the handlebars to the front wheel. Capacity is usually about 220 pounds (100 kg).
The Bakfiets
The traditional Dutch Bakfiets is the most common form of cargo bike in the Netherlands. Also known as the box bike, they consist of a large usually wooden box with either one wheel or two wheels in the front or side respectively. They were commonly used by tradespeople to make deliveries and today they are often used as a modern day family bike.
The Urban Arrow
Urban Arrows use a sophisticated Long John construction for limitless possibilities to carry a volume ranging from 260 liters to a whopping 2500 liters. They offer a range of models which include a 400Wh or 500Wh battery for the family bike to using advanced dual hydraulic disc brake technology in the three-wheeled Tender bike. The Urban Arrow aims to be the leader in urban mobility.
The Utility Bike
These bikes are built with a traditional wheelbase and stronger frames. A rack is all that’s needed to classify it as a utility bike. Though if you want to carry heavier loads with less hassle, consider attaching a sturdy rack to the head tube.
The Cycle Truck Cargo Bike
A cycle truck is a type of freight bicycle with a longer front rack affixed to the frame situated above a small front wheel, typically 20 inches and 26 inches in the rear. The length of the bike is comparable to a standard road but with an upright riding position.
Long Tails
Longtails have a long wheelbase towards the back which allows for a longer deck. They tend to handle more like regular bikes than cargo bikes with linkage steering. There are also a lot of accessories available to Longtail designs.
The Tricycle
Tricycles generally have an elongated frame with two wheels in the back on either side of the seat and cargo box. These bikes offer supreme stability but at the cost of being less nimble.
The Family Bike
The Bicycle Trailer
If you don’t have a dedicated cargo bike, consider using a bicycle trailer. They come in a range of styles with various storage capacity. There are versions for toddlers and many have added versatility and can be neatly packed up for storage or transport.
Cargo Bike for Commercial Use
Cities are the perfect playground for businesses that deliver services or goods. Cycloon is one such company that employs serious bike couriers and is well equipped to engage traffic, logistics and environmental issues.
Car owners are facing increasing taxes, emissions fine and congestion. Cargo bikes as an eco-friendly, safe solution for families and commercial use. They are an indispensable form of transport and will continue to be a staple within the changing modern city while offering a better quality of life for all.
Great read! You Cargo Cyclists are going to find out that automobiles are a SCAM and that HUMAN POWER can carry heavy loads and move at highway speeds. We pedal powered a converted 27,500 pound dump truck in 2012 and had it moving at 40 MPH. We’ve done better since then, and coming out with Cargo Cycles that can carry 45,000 GVW.
Hey thanks for the comment Warren. That’s a pretty crazy project!