Electric cargo bikes are becoming increasingly popular in Ireland as an eco-friendly alternative to motor vehicles for those who need to transport groceries, children, and other cargo. Thanks to the bike to work scheme allowance raised to €3,000, longtail cargo bikes have be more affordable for families. It is however difficult to know which one to choose. At Rothar, we offer the widest range of longtail cargo bikes in the country and we have written the article below to help you choose between our different models. When you have narrowed it down to a number of models, don't hesitate to schedule a test ride with us. And don't forget, we can have your bike delivered to your door fully assembled and ready to go.
Yuba Kombi e5:
Are you in search of a budget-friendly cargo bike that can make running errands a fun experience and allow you to leave your car keys at home? The Yuba Kombi E5 is an excellent choice. This "compact" longtail is agile, responsive, and capable of carrying heavy cargo loads of up to 200kg! Whether you are transporting big or small kids, going on a date, taking your dog out for a ride, or carrying a large load of groceries, Yuba's broad range of accessories can personalize your ride to suit your requirements.
It's designed to carry big loads on flatter terrain, making it a great option for those looking to switch from their cars to bikes for short journeys in the city. The Kombi e5 is powered by a Shimano Steps E5000 250W motor and a 418Wh battery that can last up to 85km when used optimally. While the Kombi e5 may have lower-end components, including a Shimano Alivio drivetrain, it offers a basic and affordable solution for those looking to boost the use of bikes in the city. The bike comes in one size and fits riders between 1.52m and 1.95m, and is available in either orange or silver colorways.
Max Load: 200kg (inc. rider)
Capacity: 2 kids + groceries
Fit riders from 152cm to 198cm
Rain cover: yes
Total length: 191cm
Storage: can be stored vertically
Car transport: fits on a car rack
Price: from €3,000
Yuba Fastrack:
Yuba Bikes, a California-based company with a 15-year history in the cargo bike market, gained popularity with its non motorised "longtail" bikes featuring an extended deck behind the rider's saddle, suitable for carrying various cargo or passengers of different sizes. Over time, the company expanded its range to include giant front-loading cargo bikes, compact midtail rear loaders, and an array of electric bikes equipped with high-quality mid-drive motors from reputable brands like Bosch and Shimano. Yuba's latest addition to its cargo ebike lineup is the Fastrack, a 20-inch-wheeled midtail with a patent-pending integrated Dual Rack System at the back. The system allows for quick adjustments in four different ways to carry various types of cargo or a passenger without having to install separate footboards.
The Fastrack features a 250W Shimano STEPS E7000 mid-motor and a 500Wh external battery attached to the downtube of the low-slung 6061 aluminum step-through frame. It also comes with a dual-leg kickstand for stable footing while loading up the bike. With solid componentry throughout, including a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain, an SR Suntour Mobie suspension fork, 36-hole double-wall alloy wheels, 20 x 4-inch Schwalbe Super Moto tires, and Magura MT32 mountain bike hydraulic brakes, the 30kg bike can handle up to a 200kg maximum load, including the bike and rider. However, the Fastrack's most intriguing and innovative feature is the Dual Rack System at the rear deck, which requires no tools for adjustment and can be switched among four modes: flat-bed, carry-on, side-loader, and compact.
In short, the Yuba Fastrack is a versatile and space-saving electric cargo bike suitable for urban environments. Yuba has thoughtfully designed the Fastrack to address many of the challenges faced by city dwellers, making it a sensible choice for those seeking all-road capability without sacrificing space. The Fastrack features the Shimano Steps mid-drive electric motor capable of 70Nm of torque and comes equipped with the brand new quad piston Magura MT Thirty brakes. The ability to flip the bike on its back and move it around also adds to its convenience. Yuba's Fastrack offers a practical and sensible cargo bike solution that is perfect for urbanites who need to navigate narrow streets and tight spaces.
Max Load: 200kg (inc. rider)
Capacity: 2 kids + groceries
Fit riders from 150cm to 186cm
Rain cover: yes
Total length: 191cm
Storage: can be stored vertically
Car transport: fits on a car rack
Price: from €4,555
Yuba Spicy Curry V4:
Spicy Curry V4 - The iconic Yuba extended bike benefits from significant improvements in this 4th generation model. The electric Spicy Curry V4 cargo bike is the latest version of the famous Spicy Curry, Yuba's iconic longtail. It has greatly contributed to the brand's reputation, winning the gold award at Eurobike when it was released in 2015. It is a complete family transport solution that is easy to handle and very secure to use. Built around a powerful and elegant aluminum frame, it offers excellent stability. Its center of gravity is lowered to the maximum, and its design is particularly robust.
The 4th generation Spicy Curry marks a significant evolution. Yuba has replaced the steel fork with a Suntour suspension with 80 mm of travel to enhance comfort. Another novelty is that the frame now integrates the battery into its downtube for a seamless finish. As a reminder, this electric extended bike has a total weight capacity of 200 kg and can accommodate up to 3 children on its long rear rack (or one adult).
Max Load: 200kg (inc. rider)
Capacity: up to 3 kids + groceries
Fit riders from 150cm to 186cm
Rain cover: yes
Total length: 210cm
Storage: can be stored vertically
Car transport: no, unless you have a SUV larger than its width
Price: from €4,555
Achielle Jean:
The Achielle Jean is a compact 24" electric cargo bike that's perfect for large transports, whether it's carrying two children, groceries, school bags, or anything in between. Thanks to its numerous options and possibilities, the Jean can be adapted to any situation. Its step-through frame is wide and low, making it easy to get on and off and park, while its central stand provides stability when loading and unloading cargo. The Jean grows along with your family and can be easily configured to replace a car. It features an automatic and electronic Di2 shifting system and an 8-speed Shimano Alfine drivetrain designed for bicycles carrying heavy loads. The bike also comes with hydraulic disc brakes for optimal stopping power. The Achielle Jean is fully configurable, with various saddle, light, and color options available, and everything is designed and produced in-house at Achielle's own workshop.
Max Load: 200kg (inc. rider)
Capacity: 2 kids + groceries
Fit riders from 152cm to 198cm (with ergonomic stem)
Rain cover: yes, from another brand
Total length: 182cm
Storage: as easily as a regular bike
Car transport: fits on a car rack
Price: from €3,999
Veloe Multi:
The Veloe Multi Electric MidTail cargo bike is a perfect choice for those seeking the practicality of a cargo bike without the bulk. This petite electric bike offers the functionality of a midtail cargo bike in a compact size. It's perfect for running errands around the city or taking your kids to school. The bike is equipped with a powerful motor that can help you conquer any hill or tackle any load.
The chromoly steel frame is relatively lightweight at 27kg, compared to other eCargobikes and offers impressive agility while still being able to carry up to 3 kids and groceries. The lower stand-over height allows for easy mounting and dismounting, while the smaller wheels provide a lower centre of gravity, making it more stable and comfortable to ride with heavy loads. The rear rack can accommodate a smaller child on a traditional bike seat or up to two older kids on a cushion with wrap-around bars, and there is also a frame-fixed "jumpseat" suitable for children between 3-7 years old. The bike also features a front rack that can carry up to 23 kg, ideal for carrying work essentials or a crate. The Shimano Steps E6100 mid-drive electric motor offers three levels of assistance, and the eBike specific Nexus-5E 5-speed internal gear hub provides smooth gear changes. The Veloe eMidtail also comes equipped with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, Schwalbe Big Ben Plus tires, fenders, LED lights, a chainguard, and a bell for a comfortable, safe, and practical ride.
The bike is easy to manoeuver in tight spaces - if you're looking for a practical cargo bike that won't take up too much space, the Veloe Multi Electric MidTail cargo bike is definitely worth considering.
Max Load: 200kg (inc. rider)
Capacity: up to 3 (small) kids + groceries
Fit riders from 150cm to 195cm
Rain cover: yes, from another brand
Total length: 180cm
Storage: as a regular bike
Car transport: fits on a regular car rack or in a car with seats down
Price: from €3,9999
Bicicapace JustLong:
The Bicicapace JustLong is an Italian lowrider that offers a unique blend of agility and stability. Its lightweight frame allows for a nimble ride, while its sturdy construction ensures that both your family and cargo are secure as you travel together. The JustLong's sleek design features a curvaceous frame that seamlessly transitions into a massive bag up front, perfect for storing school bags, shopping, and laptops while keeping them dry.
This bike also offers a versatile seating configuration with bench seats for up to three children, two in dedicated seats or a large box on the longtail. You can easily switch between seating options as your needs evolve. The JustLong's haul potential is impressive, making it ideal for transporting everything from A to B to C. In the middle of the bike, you have a choice of several Shimano STEPS motors/batteries, as well as a standard manual option. The pedal-driven motors give the ride a familiar feel, while a hefty kickstand allows for safe loading and unloading. The wheelbase is surprisingly short, considering the overall storage capacity, thanks to the bike's BMX-style wheels that make the most of the available space. The JustLong's ride is smooth and comfortable, thanks to its 2.15" wide Schwalbe tires and powerful disc brakes. The rims are even painted to match the color of the frame, a lovely touch that adds to the bike's overall aesthetic. Overall, the Bicicapace JustLong is an exceptional lowrider that offers a combination of style, versatility, and functionality that is sure to impress.
Max Load: 200kg (inc. rider)
Capacity: up to 3 kids + groceries
Fit riders from 152cm to 198cm
Rain cover: yes
Total length: 199cm
Storage: easily in a hallway (height restrictions if raincover on)
Car transport: fits on a car rack (restricted with raincover on)
Price: from €4,615
Bike43:
For families looking to transport more than two children, the Bike43 is an excellent option to consider. This electric cargo bike is hand-built in Europe and assembled in Belgium, providing a unique touch for a cargo bike. The frame comes with a lifetime warranty, which is a reassuring feature. The bike has a European look and feel with a step-through frame, although it is not as low as some step-through frames. The swept-back handlebars contribute to the comfortable and urban feel of the bike.
The Bike43 is easy to maneuver and features wheels of different sizes - a 24" front wheel and a 20" rear wheel. This setup ensures that your precious cargo (your children!) is positioned 25cm lower than on a regular bike, providing more stability when riding. The position of the battery is interesting as it is placed at the lowest point possible, which helps with the centre of gravity. It is also relatively lightweight for a cargo bike, weighing only 30kg, which is about 3 kilos lighter than most of its competitors.
This longtail bike is 197cm long, slightly longer than most other longtail bikes, and fits on a car bike rack that connects to a tow bar. The Bike43 offers various seating options and combinations, with a clever foot box and a rack that comes up closer to the seatpost, allowing more children to be seated at the rear. The little box behind the seatpost is for the feet of the youngest passenger.
Overall, the Bike43 is an excellent cargo bike for families looking to transport more than two children. It is easy to manoeuvre, has a stable ride, and offers various seating options. It is also relatively lightweight for a cargo bike and has a unique design that stands out from the crowd. However, the bike is not as low as some step-through frames, and its longer length may make it less convenient for storage in smaller spaces.
Max Load: 180kg (inc. rider)
Capacity: 3 kids + groceries
Fit riders from 145cm to 190cm
Rain cover: yes
Total length: 200cm
Storage: can be stored vertically
Car transport: fits on a car rack
Price: from €5,300
Tern GSD:
The Tern GSD is a vibrant and versatile electric longtail cargo bike. Tern, known for their folding bikes, decided to implement dual 20-inch wheels for their GSD model. This decision allowed Tern to make the GSD impressively compact, with a similar length to a standard non-cargo bike, but with a much longer wheelbase. The low-to-the-ground design also provides easy mounting and dismounting for the rider and passengers, as well as a low load height for the optional front cargo carriers.
Additionally, the GSD's dual-stage telescoping seatpost and extended stem can collapse vertically, making it possible to fit inside smaller SUVs and mini/microvans. The bike's four standoffs on the rear also allow it to stand upright for compact storage, even in lifts. Despite its compact form, the GSD still has a remarkable 200 kg total load capacity, including the rider, powered by a Bosch mid-drive e-assist motor with optional dual batteries and excellent range. Even the standard front and rear lights, powered by the main Bosch battery, are reasonably bright.
Its fourth-generation Bosch Cargo Line motor is capable of delivering 85 Nm of torque. The GSD also offers a range of accessory options for a "plug and play" experience, and its reinforced tubing, Atlas Wheels, and Lockstand (kickstand) ensure stability and durability. The GSD comes with premium componentry that isn't commonly found on other bikes, although its price point may be a drawback for some. Nevertheless, the GSD is a versatile cargo e-bike suitable for both cargo carriers and family outings alike.
In short:
Max Load: 200kg (inc. rider)
Capacity: 2 kids + groceries
Fit riders from 155cm to 195cm
Rain cover: yes
Total length: 186cm
Storage: fits in small spaces - can be stored vertically
Car transport: folds - fits in or out of a car
Price: from €6,000
