The cargo bike: the real car alternative in the city
An electric cargo bike replaces the car for 90% of urban trips with kids. School runs, groceries, activities — everything fits on a cargo. In 2026, the choice is vast and financial subsidies make the investment more accessible.
The 3 types of cargo
1. Longtail
The frame is extended at the rear to carry one or two children plus panniers. It rides like a regular bike, just longer.
- Capacity: 1-2 kids + groceries
- Handling: good (weaves through city traffic)
- Storage: fits in a standard garage or bike shed
- Weight: 25-35 kg
Key models: Yuba Spicy Curry, Tern GSD, Decathlon R500E Longtail
2. Bakfiets (box bike)
The iconic model with a large front box. Maximum capacity and stability, but bulky.
- Capacity: 2-4 children + bulky groceries
- Handling: average (wide turning radius)
- Storage: requires dedicated space (2.50 m long)
- Weight: 35-50 kg
Key models: Urban Arrow Family, Babboe City, Riese & Muller Load
3. Compact
A smaller cargo, often foldable, that approaches a standard bike in footprint.
- Capacity: 1 child + light groceries
- Handling: excellent
- Storage: compact, some fold (Tern HSD)
- Weight: 22-28 kg
Key models: Tern HSD, Moustache Lundi 20.5, Riese & Muller Multicharger
Best models comparison 2026
| Model | Type | Motor | Battery | Kid capacity | Price | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Arrow Family | Bakfiets | Bosch CX | 500 Wh | 2-3 | €5,499 | The bakfiets reference |
| Yuba Spicy Curry AT | Longtail | Bosch CX | 500 Wh | 2 | €5,299 | Modular, endless accessories |
| Tern GSD S10 | Longtail | Bosch Performance | 500 Wh | 2 | €4,799 | Compact, parks vertically |
| Tern HSD P9 | Compact | Bosch Performance | 400 Wh | 1 | €3,999 | Compact + foldable |
| Babboe City Mountain | Bakfiets | Yamaha PW-X3 | 500 Wh | 2-4 | €3,999 | Best value bakfiets |
| Decathlon R500E Longtail | Longtail | Brose | 504 Wh | 2 | €2,999 | Best price longtail |
| R&M Load 75 | Bakfiets | Bosch CX | 625 Wh | 2-3 | €7,999 | Premium, full suspension |
How to choose
### Longtail if...
- You want a bike that handles almost like a normal bike
- You have limited storage space
- Your kids are over 2 years old (they sit behind)
- You also want to ride solo (smooth without kids)
### Bakfiets if...
- You have 2-3 kids to carry at once
- You do big grocery runs regularly
- You have room to park a 2.50 m bike
- Your kids are young (the box feels more secure)
### Compact if...
- You have one child
- Storage space is very limited (apartment without garage)
- You want a versatile bike (cargo in the morning, solo in the evening)
