Go back to Part 1: Options.

With all the options to choose from, how are you supposed to decide which style or bike to consider? Here are some considerations:

Price

For many, price will be the primary factor in which cargo bike to consider. There are many less-expensive electric bikes, Rad Power and Flyer among them. These bikes are priced starting at around $2,000 (assuming they are not on sale). The primary factor in pricing appears to be the quality of the components which may impact the durability and reliability of the bike. 

Another factor to consider is the customization, assembly, and shipping costs. Since these bikes can have any number of customizations, you’ll want to be sure to get a full price estimate for the bike you’re considering. 

Many of these bikes can be delivered or picked up locally. 

Many bike manufacturers offer sales regularly on their bikes, so even if a bike seems out of your price range now, it may go on a significant sale. If you have the luxury of time, sign up for marketing messages from the bike manufacturers you’re considering and you may find an amazing deal you can’t pass up!

Financial Incentives

Alameda Municipal Power and Alameda TMA are all offering or have offered rebates on the purchase of new electric bikes. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) will be rolling out a $10M incentive program for the purchase of new e-bikes in the coming months. 

For information on these programs see, our e-bike classification and rebates guide.

Sign up for updates on the California Air Resources Board Program: 

Purpose

Consider your most common use cases, do you need to carry people, pets, or things? Do you need maximum flexibility in terms of configuration? Few bikes do everything perfectly (that’s why there are so many different kinds), so you’ll probably want to focus on your primary transport needs (ex. people, pets, or cargo).

Passenger Capacity

If your primary goal is to transport children to school and activities, you’ll want to consider the number of children, their ages, height, and how long you plan to use the bike to transport them. Though front-loaders can often carry more small children, the kids may be more squished. Tall kids may have trouble fitting on any cargo bike, so you’ll probably want to test ride the bike with them. Children 3 years and under will likely need a special seat, which may reduce the max passenger capacity. If you plan on using your bike for years, consider how your family needs may change in that time. 

If you plan on transporting kids, be sure to have a way of carrying their helmets with you! Kids under 18 are legally required to wear helmets when riding. Safety first! 

Cargo Capacity

If you primarily aim to transport pets and cargo, you’ll likely want to focus on the shape/flexibility of the cargo area. Many, but not all front-loading bikes have ways of flattening the cargo area. Longtails can be configured to haul rectangular objects on the back, but it will be more difficult to see as you’re riding, so you’ll want to secure everything to the frame well. 

Frequency and Mileage

Do you want to replace a car or substitute a significant amount of your car trips with a bike? Or are you looking for something for short or irregular trips? 

If you’re planning on riding every day or multiple times a day in a range of weather and terrain, you’ll want to factor that into your decision making. Investing in a more expensive bike may pay off in repairs and parts replacement. 

If you plan on using your bike infrequently or regularly for small trips, it may not be worth buying an expensive or mid-range bike. Consider purchasing a used bike or a new inexpensive bike that will still satisfy your needs. 

Range and Assist

If you are riding up hills or a long way to/from your destinations, you’ll want to learn about the battery capacity, levels of assist offered, and max range at each level. This varies significantly between bikes and batteries, so it’s something to investigate with each bike you’re interested in. Some bikes also offer the ability to downgrade gears even when you’re not pedaling which can be very helpful when you’re stopped on an incline or at a stop light.

Rider Height

Cargo bikes have recommended rider heights similar to a typical, analog bike, so riders may not fit on all bikes. Some manufacturers sell different sizes of bikes to account for this, and others have ways of adjusting the seat to accommodate shorter riders. Be sure to check (and test ride if you can) to see if the bike is comfortable. If you’re not comfortable, you’re probably not going to use it as much as you hope.

Insurance and Roadside Assistance

Some companies offer theft and liability insurance for e-bikes depending on whether you are using it for personal or commercial use and the class of bike. If you are a homeowner, your bike may be covered by your policy. If you are not a homeowner, you may want to check with your rental insurance provider and if it’s not covered, research other providers. 

If you’re going to be traveling long distances, you may also be interested in road-side service and assistance. Better World Club and AAA both offer services which can help in case of emergency.

Though these products will increase the annual cost of owning your bicycle, it’s still far less expensive than a motor vehicle and could provide the peace of mind you seek.

Helpful accessories to consider

In addition to the general configuration of your bike (seating, etc.), you may also want to consider the following accessories to prioritize safety and comfort:

• High-quality lock
• Rear-view mirror
• Bike Bell and/or Bike Horn
• Additional lights for traveling in the dark
• Cup holders
• Cargo bags and bins
• Bungee cords for securing cargo
• Reflective tape for your bike
• Jackets/vests for you and your passengers
• Rain gear or a cargo rain cover. (Not all manufacturers have one)
• Wind breaker
• Gloves (helpful to avoid chapping)

Go to Part 3: Next Steps.