Cargo E-Bikes – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A cargo e-bike is an investment in efficiency and sustainable mobility, and we understand that you need clear, reliable answers.
In our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), you will find all the key information on technology, range, charging times, funding opportunities, individual configurations, and more.
General Information about XCYC Cargo E-Bikes
Who is XCYC and what makes the brand special?
XCYC is a Swiss cargo e-bike brand of YouMo AG (Rapperswil-Jona, Switzerland), specializing in professional cargo bikes with a permissible total weight of up to 300 kg.
Our electric cargo bikes are stable, durable, and ergonomic—ideal for businesses, municipalities, and private individuals seeking a reliable transport solution.
Where are XCYC cargo e-bikes manufactured?
XCYC cargo e-bikes are manufactured in Switzerland by YouMo AG in Rapperswil-Jona, Canton of St. Gallen.
XCYC cargo bikes are delivered across Europe: to Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and other European countries. The Swiss production site ensures short supply chains, local service proximity, and eligibility for cantonal funding programs in Switzerland as well as BAFA funding in Germany.
Which industries are cargo bikes suitable for?
XCYC cargo e-bikes are suitable for any industry that requires transporting loads of up to 300 kg over short to medium distances.
|
Industry |
Typical use |
Recommended model |
|
Delivery logistics & couriers |
Last-mile delivery, parcels |
WORK mit Alu-Koffer |
|
Transport of tools and materials |
ALLROUND |
|
|
Bulk materials, equipment transport |
WORK with tipper superstructure |
|
|
Green maintenance, technical services |
WORK municipal superstructure configuration |
|
|
Retail & gastronomy |
Goods delivery, catering |
LONGTAIL |
|
Private use & family |
Shopping, children, club outings |
ALLROUND |
What advantages do cargo e-bikes offer for commercial customers?
An XCYC WORK saves up to CHF 15,000 per year in operating costs compared to a delivery van in urban environments, while producing 0 g of CO₂ emissions during operation.
As a pedelec with assistance up to 25 km/h, it requires neither a driver’s license, nor parking space, nor mandatory insurance.
|
Advantage |
Concrete |
|
No fuel costs |
approx. CHF 0.14–0.28 / 100 km (electricity) |
|
No driver’s license required |
Rideable from age 16 |
|
Modular configurations |
Tipper bed, aluminum box, tarp, municipal configuration |
|
Fleet branding |
Logo, color, lettering on the frame |
Are cargo bikes also suitable for private individuals?
Yes. The XCYC ALLROUND is the ideal cargo bike for everyday private use, with a permissible total weight of 250 kg, a turning radius of 340 cm, and a range of up to 65 km.
It replaces the second car for many households. Typical uses: bulk shopping, club outings, pets.
Cargo e-bike models & technical specifications
Which cargo e-bike models does XCYC offer?
XCYC offers three model lines: WORK (heavy-duty, 300 kg gross vehicle weight), ALLROUND (all-round, 250 kg gross vehicle weight), and LONGTAIL (180 kg gross vehicle weight).
Each model is available in multiple variants and can be configured with different superstructures.
|
Modell |
Gross vehicle weight |
Range |
Price from (CHF) |
Strength |
|
XCYC WORK |
300 kg |
up to 100 km |
7.990 |
Heavy-duty, tipper superstructure |
|
XCYC ALLROUND |
250 kg |
up to 65 km |
5.990 |
Versatile, agile |
|
XCYC LONGTAIL |
180 kg |
up to 65 km |
4.990 |
Delivery services, gastronomy |
What is the difference between XCYC WORK, ALLROUND, and LONGTAIL?
The XCYC WORK 4.0 is a heavy-duty cargo bike with a total weight of 300 kg and a tilting cargo bed, designed for intensive daily use in commercial applications.
The XCYC ALLROUND is more versatile with 250 kg and is suitable for mixed-use applications. The XCYC LONGTAIL offers a range of up to 65 km, making it ideal for delivery services, gastronomy & catering.
|
Criterion |
WORK 4.0 |
ALLROUND 4.0 |
LONGTAIL |
|
Gross vehicle weight |
300 kg |
250 kg |
180 kg |
|
Motor |
Bosch Cargo Line CX |
Bosch Performance CX |
Bosch Cargo Line CX |
|
Range |
up to 100 km |
up to 65 km |
up to 65 km |
|
Turning circle |
460 cm |
340 cm |
340 cm |
|
Tipping superstructure |
available |
— |
— |
|
Dual-Akku |
available |
— |
— |
|
Use |
Commercial, Intensive |
Business + Personal |
Delivery services |
|
Price from (CHF) |
7.990 |
5.990 |
4.990 |
What engines does XCYC use?
All XCYC models are equipped with Bosch drives. Der Bosch Cargo Line CX (Gen4) im XCYC WORK ist speziell für Lastenräder entwickelt und liefert maximale Durchzugskraft ab Anfahrt.The Bosch Cargo Line CX (Gen4) in the XCYC WORK is specifically designed for cargo bikes and delivers maximum torque right from the start.
What is the battery capacity of a Cargo e-bike?
All XCYC models come standard with a 500 Wh Bosch battery.
The XCYC WORK can be equipped with an optional second 500 Wh battery; the dual-battery pack increases the total capacity to 1,000 Wh and extends the range to up to 100 km for all-day use without recharging.
|
Modell |
Battery Otipons |
Range |
|
XCYC WORK |
500 Wh / Dual-Akku |
up to 100 km |
|
XCYC ALLROUND |
500 Wh |
up to 65 km |
|
XCYC LONGTAIL |
500 Wh |
up to 65 km |
How far can a cargo e-bike go on a single battery charge?
The XCYC WORK has a range of up to 100 km, the XCYC ALLROUND up to 65 km, and the XCYC LONGTAIL up to 65 km per battery charge.
In city driving with a full load and frequent stops, a range of 60–80% of the maximum range is realistic. The actual range depends on the payload, terrain, and assist level.
How long does it take to charge a Cargo e-bike battery?
A fully discharged Bosch battery can be fully charged in about 4.5 hours using a standard household outlet (230 V); no special connection is required.
Can you install a second battery on the Cargo e-bike?
Yes. The XCYC WORK can be equipped with a dual-battery pack, with a capacity of up to 1,000 Wh and a range of up to 100 km.
Ideal for couriers and small businesses with long workdays and no intermediate stops.
Is there an app for cargo bikes?
There is no dedicated XCYC app, but all models with a Bosch drive are fully compatible with the Bosch eBike Flow app (iOS & Android).
The app offers navigation with a range display, trip statistics, assistance level adjustment, and over-the-air system updates—all for free, with no mandatory registration.
Driver's License, Vehicle Registration & Legal Matters (Switzerland & Germany)
Do I need a driver's license to ride a cargo e-bike?
No. In Switzerland, an XCYC Cargo e-bike with motor assistance up to 25 km/h is classified as a light moped: no driver’s license, no vehicle registration, and no license plate are required.
The same applies in Germany: Legally, a pedelec (§ 1 StVZO) is classified as a bicycle. Only S-pedelecs capable of speeds up to 45 km/h require an insurance sticker and a Class AM license.
|
Country |
Driver’s license |
Characteristics |
Minimum age |
|
Switzerland (up to 25 km/h) |
not required |
not required |
16 years |
|
Germany (up to 25 km/h) |
not required |
not required |
no minimum |
|
DE S-Pedelec (up to 45 km/h) |
Class AM |
Insurance plate |
16 years |
Does a cargo e-bike need to be insured in Switzerland?
No, liability insurance is not required for pedelecs with a top speed of up to 25 km/h in Switzerland.
Voluntary bicycle insurance is particularly recommended for commercial use.
Do I need an insurance sticker for a cargo e-bike in Germany?
No. XCYC models with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h are classified as bicycles in Germany (Section 1 of the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations) and do not require an insurance sticker or a driver’s license.
Only S-pedelecs with assistance up to 45 km/h require an insurance sticker and a Class AM license (for riders 16 years of age and older).
Are cargo e-bikes approved for use on public roads?
Switzerland
Whether cargo e-bikes are allowed to ride on the road, bike path, or sidewalk in Switzerland depends on their total weight.
Leicht-Motorfahrräder (bis 250 kg) dürfen auf der Strasse fahren, aber nur, wenn kein Radweg vorhanden ist. Gibt es einen Radweg, müssen sie ihn verpflichtend nutzen – egal, ob eine Zusatztafel „freiwillig“ vorhanden ist oder nicht. Ist eine Zusatztafel „verboten für Motorfahrräder“ angebracht, bleibt die Radwegbenutzung weiterhin Pflicht.
Heavy motorcycles (250 to 450 kg) may only be driven on the road with an additional “voluntary” license plate. Without these, they have to Use the bike path. If an additional sign is present “voluntarily,” the driver may Choose between the street and the bike path. Is a Once a “No Motorcycles” sign is posted, they are no longer allowed to use the bike path and must instead use the road.
Pedestrians are generally not permitted on the sidewalk in either category, unless an additional “Permitted” sign expressly allows it.
Traffic Regulations in Switzerland
Germany
Payload, Range & Battery
What is the maximum payload of a cargo e-bike?
The XCYC WORK has a gross vehicle weight rating of 300 kg.
The XCYC ALLROUND has a total weight capacity of 250 kg, while the XCYC LONGTAIL has a capacity of 180 kg.
|
Model |
Gross vehicle weight |
Note |
|
XCYC WORK |
300 kg |
including driver, superstructure, and cargo |
|
XCYC ALLROUND |
250 kg |
|
|
XCYC LONGTAIL |
180 kg |
How does the payload affect the range of a cargo e-bike?
More payload = higher energy consumption: Every 50 kg of additional weight reduces the range by approximately 10–15%.
When fully loaded (WORK: 300 kg total weight), the range is reduced by approximately 25–35% compared to when empty, but remains over 70 km with efficient driving. Anticipatory driving and a moderate assistance level minimize this effect.
Can I ride the Cargo e-bike even without the motor?
Yes. All XCYC models can be ridden without motor assistance, just like a regular bike.
Due to its own weight and the potential load, this requires significantly more effort on inclines. On flat terrain and over short distances, however, it is easily manageable.
Superstructure Styles & Configurations
What superstructure options are available for XCYC Cargo e-bikes?
XCYC Cargo e-bikes can be configured with different cargo racks depending on the model. The XCYC WORK offers the widest selection with six options; the ALLROUND is available with a rack and cargo box; and the LONGTAIL comes with an urban delivery rack.
|
Structure |
WORK |
ALLROUND |
LONGTAIL |
Distinctive feature |
|
Railing Assembly |
✓ |
✓ |
— |
Base structure, open |
|
Aluminum Transport Case, 0.3 m³ |
— |
✓ |
— |
Lockable |
|
Aluminum Transport Case, 1.5 m³ |
✓ |
✓ |
— |
Lockable |
|
Aluminum Transport Case, 2.0 m³ |
✓ |
— |
— |
Lockable, with greater interior height |
|
Tarpaulin Setup |
✓ |
— |
— |
Weather protection |
|
Municipal Development |
✓ |
— |
— |
Special Configuration for the Maintenance Yard |
|
Special Configuration for the Maintenance Yard |
✓ |
— |
— |
Hydraulic, the only tilting superstructure on the market |
|
Urban Delivery |
— |
— |
✓ |
Delivery services, restaurants, or catering |
Is there a Cargo e-bike model with a tilting function?
Yes. The The XCYC WORK with tilting is the only cargo e-bike on the market with a hydraulically tilting cargo bed.
Bulk materials such as soil, gravel, or shredded material can be unloaded in seconds without shovels, making this particularly valuable for horticulture, landscaping, and municipal maintenance depots.
Can I attach a trailer to an XCYC cargo bike?
Yes. The XCYC ALLROUND models are compatible with trailers that meet the DIN 15918 standard and feature the Weber coupling system.
When using a trailer, the maximum gross weight of the combination must be observed.
Can I add my own branding to XCYC cargo bikes?
Yes. XCYC Cargo e-bikes can be customized with company colors, logos, and lettering on the frame and all components.
This service is particularly appealing to delivery services, small businesses, and local governments that use cargo bikes as brand ambassadors. For inquiries, please contact: sales@youmo.ch
Price, Funding & Cost-Effectiveness
How much does a cargo e-bike cost in Switzerland?
The XCYC WORK starts at CHF 7,990, the XCYC ALLROUND at CHF 5,990, and the XCYC LONGTAIL at CHF 4,990.
Prices do not include add-ons and options. Please check the shop for current prices.
|
Model |
Price from (CHF) |
Note |
|
XCYC WORK |
from CHF 7,990 |
excluding superstructures |
|
XCYC ALLROUND |
from CHF 5,990 |
excluding superstructures |
|
XCYC LONGTAIL |
from CHF 4,990 |
excl. superstructures |
How much does a cargo e-bike cost in Germany?
The XCYC WORK starts at €9,219.61, the XCYC ALLROUND at €7,185.71, and the XCYC LONGTAIL at €6,219.75.
Die Preise verstehen sich ohne Zusatzleistungen und Optionen. Die aktuellen Preise finden Sie im Shop.
|
Model |
Price from (CHF) |
Note |
|
XCYC WORK |
up 9’219.61 € |
excluding superstructures |
|
XCYC ALLROUND |
up 7’185.71 € |
excluding superstructures |
|
XCYC LONGTAIL |
up 6’219.75 € |
excl. superstructures |
Is a cargo e-bike a better choice than a van?
For every 100 km of urban delivery, a diesel van emits approximately 18 kg of CO2, while the XCYC emits 0 g.
Cost Table: 5-Year Comparison (CHF)
|
cost factor |
Cargo E-Bike |
Diesel van |
Electric van |
|
acquisition costs |
CHF 12.000 – 16.000 |
CHF 43.000 |
CHF 59.000 |
|
Energy costs |
CHF 550 |
CHF 13.000 |
CHF 6.500 |
|
Maintenance costs |
CHF 1.600 |
CHF 8.600 |
CHF 5.400 |
|
Insurance |
CHF 1.100 |
CHF 6.500 |
CHF 6.500 |
|
Parkkosten |
CHF 0 |
CHF 8.100 |
CHF 8.100 |
|
Total cost |
CHF 16.000 – 19.000 |
CHF 79.200 |
CHF 85.500 |
Cost Table: 5-Year Comparison (EUR)
|
cost factor |
Cargo E-Bike |
Diesel van |
Electric van |
|
acquisition costs |
12.000 – 15.000 € |
40.000 € |
55.000 € |
|
Energy costs |
500 € |
12.000 € |
6.000 € |
|
Maintenance costs |
1.500 € |
8.000 € |
5.000 € |
|
Insurance |
1.000 € |
6.000 € |
6.000 € |
|
Parkkosten |
0 € |
7.500 € |
7.500 € |
|
Total cost |
15.000 – 18.000 € |
73.500 € |
79.500 € |
Conversion using an EUR/CHF exchange rate of ~1.08 (April 2026)
Are there any subsidies for cargo e-bikes in Switzerland?
Yes. In Switzerland, there are cantonal and municipal subsidy programs for cargo e-bikes for businesses and individuals: https://www.rapperswil-jona.ch/aktuellesinformationen/2637040
How much is the BAFA subsidy for cargo e-bikes in Germany?
Die BAFA-Förderung für gewerbliche Cargo E-Bikes in Deutschland beträgt bis zu EUR 3.500, das entspricht 25 % der Anschaffungskosten.
The XCYC WORK, ALLROUND, and LONGTAIL models are eligible for subsidies under the BAFA product list for commercial use. Not eligible: private use, used models, and passenger transport.
!!! Important: The BAFA application must be submitted BEFORE the purchase—subsequent applications are not accepted.
How can I apply for funding?
Switzerland: Apply directly to the relevant canton or municipality; eligibility requirements vary. For more information: sales@youmo.ch
Germany: Submit your application via the BAFA portal BEFORE making a purchase. Detailed guide: https://www.youmo.ch/bafa-foerderung-xcyc/
Usage & Driving Performance
How easy is it to start driving with a full load?
All XCYC models accelerate effortlessly even when fully loaded; the Bosch Cargo Line CX (85 Nm, WORK) and Bosch Performance CX (85 Nm, ALLROUND) start smoothly and without jerking.
The intelligent motor control system automatically detects the load resistance and adjusts the assistance, even on cobblestones and during stop-and-go driving.
How does the cargo bike handle uphill?
The XCYC handles urban inclines of up to about 10% with ease, even when fully loaded, thanks to Bosch motors with 85 Nm of torque.
The XCYC WORK 4.0 is specifically designed for heavy loads on hilly terrain, including landscaping in Switzerland’s hilly terrain.
Does the Cargo e-bike motor need more power when carrying a heavy load?
Yes. The heavier the load, the greater the energy requirement, especially when starting off and on inclines.
The Bosch Cargo Line CX in the XCYC WORK is designed for loads of up to 300 kg and provides consistent assistance even at maximum load capacity.
Anticipatory driving significantly reduces fuel consumption.
Can I ride the Cargo e-bike off-road?
XCYC cargo bikes handle gravel, forest trails, and slightly unpaved surfaces with ease, thanks to their wide tires and sturdy frame.
They aren’t designed for mountain bike trails or rough terrain: they’re utility bikes, not mountain bikes.
What is the turning radius of the Cargo e-bike?
The XCYC ALLROUND and XCYC LONGTAIL have a turning radius of just 340 cm, while the XCYC WORK 4.0 has a turning radius of 460 cm.
By comparison, a VW Transporter requires approximately 1,200 cm. This makes the XCYC ideal for city centers, pedestrian zones, warehouses, and delivery yards.
How do Cargo e-bikes handle on uneven terrain?
The XCYC’s optimized dual-spring fork effectively absorbs shocks, keeping the load stable on cobblestones, potholes, and uneven roads.
The low center of gravity provided by the low-loader bed further improves road holding when carrying heavy loads.
Do cargo e-bikes have a parking brake?
Yes. All XCYC models are equipped with a powerful parking brake.
It keeps the bike securely in place on slopes even when fully loaded, allowing you to park safely while loading and unloading without having to hold it.
How much space do I need to park a cargo e-bike?
The XCYC doesn’t require a dedicated parking spot; it can be parked at standard bike racks, against building walls, or on the sidewalk (where permitted).
This means that commercial businesses are completely exempt from parking fees.
How secure are cargo e-bikes against theft?
The AXA Block XXL frame lock features a hardened steel shackle (8.5 mm) and an anti-drill cylinder, and locks directly to the frame with a single motion.
Ist es möglich, Kinder mit einem Cargo E-Bike zu transportieren?
XCYC cargo bikes are primarily designed for transporting cargo.
We currently do not offer a dedicated child transport solution.
Care, Maintenance & Service
How do I properly maintain my Cargo e-bike?
Regular maintenance extends the product’s lifespan and prevents costly repairs.
Clean with a damp cloth (do not use a pressure washer), check tire pressure weekly, inspect brakes monthly, lubricate the chain every 300–500 km, and have the bike serviced by a dealer annually.
|
Care sector |
Pflegebereich |
Interval |
|
Cleaning |
A damp cloth, no pressure washer |
as needed |
|
Tires |
Check tire pressure |
weekly |
|
Brakes |
Check the brake pads for wear |
monthly |
|
chain |
Lubricate, check for wear |
every 300–500 km |
|
Battery |
Charge regularly; do not let the battery discharge below 10% |
ongoing |
|
Annual Service |
Full inspection at the dealership |
annually |
Everything you need to know about washing and maintaining your cargo bike
What is the warranty on a Cargo e-bike?
XCYC Cargo e-bikes come with a 2-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Bosch components (motor, battery, display) are covered by the Bosch warranty terms. For commercial use, we recommend an annual service contract.
Purchase, Delivery & Retailers
Where can I buy a cargo e-bike?
XCYC Cargo e-bikes can be ordered directly from shop.youmo.ch, with delivery to Switzerland.
Alternatively, through authorized YouMo dealers.
Where can I test ride a Cargo e-bike?
Test drives are available upon request at YouMo AG in Rapperswil-Jona or at an authorized dealer.
Please submit your inquiry via the contact form at youmo.ch/support or by phone at +41 55 552 05 11.
How long does it take to deliver a Cargo e-bike?
An XCYC Cargo e-bike is delivered approximately 6 weeks after ordering, fully assembled and ready to ride.
Delivery times may vary for custom configurations (tipper bodies, branding, fleet orders).
Is the Cargo e-bike delivered fully assembled?
Yes. Every XCYC Cargo e-bike is delivered fully assembled and ready to ride.
Minor adjustments (saddle, handlebars, pedals) can be made in just a few minutes; no technical instruction is required.
To which countries can cargo bikes be shipped?
XCYC delivers throughout Switzerland and across Europe
|
Region |
Shop |
Currency |
|
Switzerland |
shop.youmo.ch |
CHF |
|
Germany, Austria, and other EU countries |
shop-de.youmo.ch |
EUR |
What are the shipping costs when purchasing a Cargo e-bike?
Shipping a Cargo e-bike incurs shipping costs; the exact amount depends on the delivery location.
Check the current shipping costs in the CH-Shop or with the retailer.
How do I become an XCYC dealer or distributor?
YouMo AG is seeking qualified partners in Switzerland and Europe.
Direct inquiry: sales@youmo.ch or the contact form at youmo.ch/support
Sustainability & CO2
How much CO2 do I save by using a cargo e-bike?
For every 100 km of urban delivery, a diesel van emits approximately 18 kg of CO2. The XCYC Cargo e-bike emits 0 g of CO2 during operation.
Based on 5 trips of 20 km each per day and 250 working days, this results in CO2 savings of approximately 4,500 kg per bicycle per year.
What are the ongoing operating costs of a cargo e-bike?
An XCYC Cargo e-bike costs a fraction of what a van does to operate: electricity costs are approximately CHF 0.54 per 100 km, and total operating costs over five years range from CHF 16,000 to CHF 19,000, compared to CHF 79,200 for a diesel van.
|
cost factor |
Cargo E-Bike (5 years) |
Diesel-Transporter (5 years) |
|
Purchase |
CHF 12.000–16.000 |
CHF 43.000 |
|
Energy |
CHF 540 |
CHF 13.000 |
|
WartungMaintenance |
CHF 1.620 |
CHF 8.600 |
|
Insurance |
CHF 1.080 |
CHF 6.500 |
|
Parking fees |
CHF 0 |
CHF 8.100 |
|
Total cost |
CHF 15.240–19.240 |
CHF 79.200 |
Maintenance costs for the XCYC are up to 40% lower than for the Transporter.
Contact & Support
How can I contact YouMo customer service?
YouMo AG can be reached by phone, email, or through the contact form.
Phone: +41 55 552 05 11
E-mail: sales@youmo.ch
Contact form: youmo.ch/support
Address: YouMo AG, Stampfstrasse 74, CH-8645 Rapperswil SG
