Transporting your cargo e-bike: how to load it correctly and ride more safely
Cargo e-bikes have already become an indispensable means of transportation in many companies. Safe handling and stable handling also depend on the correct load. We show you the differences between the permissible total weight, load capacity and payload and give you tips on how to load your cargo e-bike correctly and stay in control when riding with a heavy load.
Clarification of terms: permissible gross weight, load capacity and payload
The terms total weight, load capacity and payload have different meanings. To make it easier for you to find the right e-bike, we have created a small overview with examples for you.
The gross vehicle weight rating: with or without driver?
The permissible total weight is the total weight that the cargo bike may have. This means you have to factor in the cargo bike weight, the rider weight and the load weight. The rider is therefore taken into account.
If a cargo e-bike has a permissible total weight of 200 kg, it must not weigh more when fully loaded and with rider. For example, if the weight is 50 kg and the driver weighs 70 kg, the load may still weigh 80 kg.
What is a load capacity and what is a payload?
Load capacity of a cargo bike is not the same as the payload.
The payload indicates how much can be loaded in addition to the unladen weight of the cargo bike (i.e. its own weight) and the rider’s weight.
The loads capacityis the weight with which the cargo bike may be loaded, i.e. the rider’s weight and the payload.
Example for calculating the payload:
- You have a cargo e-bike that weighs 45 kg.
- The driver weighs 80 kg.
- The permissible total weight is 200 kg.
Payload = permissible total weight (200 kg) – empty vehicle weight (45 kg) – rider weight (80 kg)
This results in a maximum permissible payload of 75 kg. So if you are looking for a cargo bike with a payload of 150 kg, for example, you should know the approximate rider weight and factor it in.
Example for calculating the loading capacity:
- You have a cargo bike that weighs 45 kg.
- The permissible total weight is 200 kg.
Load capacity= permissible total weight (200 kg) – empty vehicle weight (45 kg)
This results in a maximum payload of 155 kg.
So if the payload is specified for a cargo e-bike, this is an unsuitable criteria for comparing products. It is better to use the loading capacity or optionally the permissible gross weight. But then also note the weight of the empty vehicle
Maximum rider weight
When researching cargo bikes, you will probably notice that some models also specify a maximum permissible rider weight.
This can happen if components such as a seat post are installed that are only designed for a certain weight range. The XCYC PICKUPS, for example, feature an Ergotec Up&Down seatpost, which should not exceed 110 kg for the best possible support and ergonomics.
Practical tips for correct loading
It is important that you do not exceed the permissible total weight of the cargo bike. This is for your own safety, ensures stable handling, reliable braking and is also better for your cargo e-bike.
In addition to the total weight, other factors also play a role, e.g. how you stow and secure the load.
Suitable loading area
Not only are there many different models of cargo bikes, the loading areas also vary greatly. On some models, the loading area is fixed and on some cargo e-bikes you can adjust it individually to your load.
It is clearly noticeable whether the loading area is in front of the handlebars or behind the saddle. Especially with heavy loads, you have more stability when driving if the load is attached behind you.
The XCYC WORK models have a loading area of 940×1300 mm and the XCYC ALLROUND models have a loading area of 850×748 mm, making them vehicles with a large loading area. What’s more, they can be fitted with different types of superstructures for the cargo bikes.
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Load volume & dimensions |
Max. Permissible payload |
Possible additional accessories that can be added to the superstructures |
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|
1300 x 1000 x 460 mm (L x W x H), internal dimensions 1210 x 900 x 460 mm (open top) can be opened at the back; incl. 1 Clamping rod short for railing assembly Work |
Up to 150 kg |
Wall set for railing structure Work Railing door for railing superstructure Work |
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1.5 cubic meter 1300 x 1000 x 1200 mm (L x W x H) 35 kg Lockable double door |
Up to 150 kg |
Optional: individual branding |
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XCYC Work Smart transport case |
1.5 cubic meter Polypropylene 1300 x 993 x 1379 – Two doors: back door and side door – Flat recessed lock with a mechanical lock |
Up to 150 kg |
Optional: individual branding |
|
XCYC Work Smart transport case |
2.0 cubic meters Polypropylene 1549 x 993 x 1379 (L x W x H) – Two doors: back door and side door – Flat recessed lock with a mechanical lock |
Up to 150 kg |
Optional: individual branding |
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1300 x 1000 x 1200 mm (L x W x H) Tarpaulin fabric made of PES carrier fabric with zippers at the side and back for opening |
Up to 150 kg |
Optional: individual branding on three or four sides |
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|
Color black 1300 x 1000 x 460 mm (L x W x H) incl. Railing structure with wall set and handle holder for two tools (suitable for e.g. 2x SULU MGB-120l waste garbage cans – not included) |
Up to 150 kg |
Optional: additional clamping rods |
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750 x 850 x 460 mm (L x W x H), internal dimensions 678 x 780 x 460 mm (open at the top) can be opened at the rear; incl. 1 short clamping rod for Allround railing system |
Up to 100 kg |
Wall set for railing superstructure Allround Railing door for Allround railing superstructure |
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870 x 670 x 670 mm (L x W x H), 30 kg Volume 300 liters (0.3 cubic meters) |
Up to 100 kg |
– |
How to load correctly
For good handling, everything revolves around the center of gravity of the cargo e-bike and its load. Therefore, make sure that you place the heavy load directly on the loading area and transport lighter boxes or goods higher up. This gives you more control and stability when riding.
Position your load in the middle of the loading area so that the cargo bike does not become unbalanced. With three-wheeled models such as the XCYC Caro e-bikes, this is not as significant as with two-wheeled variants, but it does make riding a little easier. If you are riding a cargo bike with two wheels, you would have to compensate for unevenly distributed weight, e.g. by leaning to the side while riding.
Secure your load with a lashing strap, rope or elastic band. This means that nothing slips on steep bends and the load stays in place even under heavy braking.
If you have children or pets such as a dog on the cargo bike, you should make sure that they are seated safely and that the seats are securely attached. When riding, remember that children sometimes stick their arms out to the right and left.
Safe loading and unloading of the Cargo E-Bike
To prevent your cargo e-bike from running away when loading or unloading, you should make sure you have parking brakes. This ensures a secure footing. This keeps the cargo bike in place – even if it is on a slight incline. Without parking brakes, you could also use a stopper such as a stone to help, but this is not practical.
Influence of load on range and performance
The heavier the load, the shorter the range – this is just as true for cars as it is for cargo e-bikes. Therefore, do not transport unnecessary loads. Just as relevant is how hard you pedal and what kind of route you cover (uphill or downhill?). There are therefore also cargo bikes such as the XCYC Cargo E-Bikes, where you can adjust the motor power to the payload. This saves battery power when you are carrying less and gets the maximum power out of the motor when you need more power with a heavy load.
Checklist for correct loading:
- The matching loading area makes transportation much easier
- The heavy load belongs at the bottom, light loads at the top
- Position your load in the center of the axle
- Secure your load carefully
- Preferably choose a model with a parking brake for loading and unloading
- Bear in mind that the range depends on the charge and use a spare battery as an option
Tips for safe driving with a heavy load
The weight of the load affects the steering and stability of the cargo bike. The braking behavior has changed and you should adapt your riding style accordingly.
Empty run: practicing driving
Riding a cargo e-bike is different from riding an ordinary bike. You therefore make the first journey without a load. This way you can get used to the cargo bike and get a good feel for handling it. About parking and starting, steering in bends and braking. As soon as you feel confident, you can start with the first load.
The right gear for starting off
A cargo e-bike loaded up to the permissible total weight cannot be started without further ado. It is therefore recommended that you set the correct gear before loading.
Anticipatory driving
Think ahead and react early. If the route conditions change and there is a steep incline ahead of you, you should shift down to a lower gear in good time. Also reduce your speed in good time when entering steep bends. The braking distance for heavy vehicles / loads is also generally longer than for light and unloaded bikes.
Choosing the right cargo e-bike
There is no right or wrong way to choose a cargo e-bike. Rather, it depends on your requirements.
Pay particular attention to these criteria for the loading area:
- Is the loading area at the back or the front?
- What surface area and installation height does it have?
- What is the permissible total weight and what is the payload?
- Can the loading area be changed as required?
- What body systems are available for the cargo e-bike?
- How stable and secure is the cargo bike? Does it have two or three wheels?
Engine power, range, quality and equipment also play an important role. But the cargo bike can look great in pictures but not be comfortable to ride. We therefore strongly advocate that you take a test ride and see the bike for yourself.
We will be happy to advise you and help you find out whether our XCYC cargo e-bikes are suitable for your transportation plans. Just give us a call or fill out the contact form.
The five XCYC Cargo e-bikes we offer are, but also an overview of them is:
- XCYC WORK 4.0, XCYC WORK 4.0 Eco & XCYC WORK 4.0: Your high-performance e-cargo bike with very high-quality equipment. It is ideal for heavy loads and intensive use.
- XCYC PICKUP ALLROUND 4.0 & XCYC PICKUP ALLROUND 4.0 ECO:
An agile and robust e-cargo bike that you can use flexibly for transporting goods, tools, shopping or family outings.
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XCYC ALLROUND 4.0 Eco |
XCYC ALLROUND 4.0 |
XCYC WORK 4.0 Eco |
XCYC WORK 4.0 |
XCYC WORK 4.0 T |
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Motor |
Bosch Performance CX 250 Torque max. 75 Nm, rated power 250 watts |
Bosch Gen4 250, Cargoline CX 250 Torque max. 85 Nm, rated power 250 watts |
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Display |
On-board computer, Bosch Intuvia, handlebar mounting |
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Battery |
Battery pack, Bosch 500 Wh / 13.4 Ah, removable |
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Loading time |
Approx. 4.5 hours. |
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Frame |
2270 x 850 x 1150 mm (L x W x H) |
2900 x 1000 x 1700 mm (L x W x H) |
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Gear |
9-speed Shimano Deore derailleur gears |
14-speed Rohloff Speedhub hub gears |
10-speed Shimano Deore derailleur gears |
14-speed Rohloff Speedhub hub gears |
14-speed Rohloff Speedhub hub gears |
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Loading area |
Screen printing panel LA03, 850 x 748 mm (L x W) |
Screen printing plate LA04/ Euro pallet standard “+” 99.4 x 130 cm (max. 120 cm construction height) |
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Weight |
58 kg |
100 kg |
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Fork |
Cargo-optimized double bridge suspension fork |
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Turning circle |
340 cm |
340 cm |
460 cm |
460 cm |
460 cm |
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Front brake |
Shimano T6000 hydraulic disc brake, Ø brake disk 203 mm |
Tektro HD-T-740 hydraulic disc brake, Ø brake disk 203 mm |
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Rear brake |
2 x Shimano T6000 hydraulic disc brakes, Ø brake disk 180 mm |
Tektro HD-T-745 2x hydraulic disc brake, Ø brake disk 180 mm |
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Mechanical hold-open function |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
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Preparation Dual battery pack |
no |
Yes |
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Electric motorized pushing aid |
Yes |
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Mounting for trailer coupling |
Optionally available |
no |
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Customized branding or logo |
Optionally available |
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Front tire |
Schwalbe Pick-Up 26×2.15 |
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Rear tire standard |
Vee Rubber 094 12 x 3.00 |
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Rear tire optional |
Innova Ris165/70-10 |
no |
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Max. Permissible driver weight |
Depending from the seat post Safety level 4:100kg Safety level 6 (Ergotec Up&Down):110kg |
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Max. Permissible payload on the loading area of the PICKUP |
100 kg |
150 kg |
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Max. Permissible total mass (permissible total weight) |
250 kg |
300 kg |
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Max. Permissible total mass (permissible total weight) in Switzerland |
200 kg |
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Max. Maximum permissible speed |
30 km/h |
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Max. Permissible loading height2 |
0,70 m |
1,20 m |
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Permitted trailers |
all trailers according to DIN 15918 with “Weber” coupling system |
no |
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Max. Permissible trailer width |
1,000 mm = 1.00 m |
no |
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Front lighting |
Lumotec IQ MycE, 50 lux, 6-42 V DC |
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Rear light |
Trelock LS 614 DUO FLAT, signal, 6-12 V, DC |
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Outlook: The future is mobile on the cargo e-bike
Cargo e-bikes are a sustainable transportation solution and are already changing the infrastructure in logistics. Whether on company work sites, on the last mile when delivering parcels or as an innovative and mobile sales stand at an event – the possible uses are wide-ranging thanks to the diverse loading options, high stability and safe ride.
In the future, we will certainly see even more cargo bikes on the roads and it will be even more natural for companies to use them as a means of transportation.
Would you like to “step up” today and drive forward with an innovative solution? Talk to us, we will advise you on all aspects of our cargo e-bikes and their loading options.
