7 Best Utility or Cargo E-Bikes You Can Get Right Now

E-bikes have many advantages – for instance, they're a fun way to zip around town, they allow you to ride faster and longer, and they enable you to commute in an environmentally friendly way. Moreover, some models come (or can be optioned) with a rack or a cargo basket that allows you to carry groceries and other small items.

However, if cargo-carrying capabilities are critical for you, you should look at a cargo/utility e-bike. These models are designed to carry loads of groceries, transport your kids or pets, and more. A proper cargo e-bike will make the difference between riding or driving to the grocery store.

The types of utility e-bikes

There are multiple types of utility e-bikes, but we can identify two main types: models with an extended rear rack (also known as longtails) or ones with large front boxes (known as bakfiets, the Dutch word for "box bike"). We can also call them rear-loading and front-loading models. Other types include mid-tails (which are basically shorter longtails) and trikes.

In fact, the Netherlands is where the cargo bike was born - it was a critical part of the merchants', craftsmen', and factories' businesses. Nowadays, we can see cargo e-bikes in many places, especially in European countries.

By the way, "Bakfiets" originally referred to three-wheeler carries (trikes) - there are multiple such models on the market, but today, I will talk solely about the two-wheeled e-bikes.

What makes a good utility e-bike?

There's a vast range of utility e-bikes available. Of course, the most suitable model for you will depend on your exact needs and wants. However, I have identified several factors that helped me narrow down the options I have included in this article. Moreover, I suggest you also consider them when choosing your next utility e-bike.

Naturally, the first factor is utility – how useful is the model? This includes how much you can carry, what you can carry, and what accessories you get or can add to make the two-wheeler even more practical.

Just like in all of my articles, I am keeping the balance between price and quality in mind. Generally, you can't expect to find a utility e-bike with a price tag of less than $1,000. If that's too much for you, you might want to save up some more to ensure you purchase one of the best options. Or, if you don't need a utility e-bike, take a look at my recent article about the best e-bikes under $1K.

Power and range are also very important. Don't expect a utility e-bike to be the most powerful, but still, you'll want enough juice to support the additional weight of what you're carrying and prevent you from overworking yourself to get from point A to point B. Moreover, you'll want the battery to be big enough to support your daily travels.

1. Lectric Xpedition

The Lectric Xpedition is the most budget-friendly option in this article, making it a suitable entry-level cargo model. Two versions are available: a single battery for $1,475 or a dual battery for $1,699. Both are currently discounted from $1,880 and $2,104, respectively.

Lectric described its cargo e-bike as its most extensive project to date – it's designed to be the ultimate transportation solution. This e-bike comes with a long rear rack and offers a robust 450-lb. (204 kg) payload capacity, with a maximum of 300 lb. (136 kg) on the rear rack and 35 lb. (16 kg) on the front basket.

At the core of the Xpedition is a 750 W (1,310 W peak) rear hub motor that outputs 85 Nm of torque. It's connected to a 48V battery that allows you to ride up to 75 miles (121 km) in the single battery version, while the dual battery variant has double the range.

The Xpedition rides on 20" x 3" puncture-resistant street tires, while stopping power is provided by front and rear hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotors.

You get great value for money with the Xpedition e-bike. Besides the specs I described above, the vast range of available accessories makes it an excellent option. You can opt for a rear chair, a child's seat, passenger handlebars, XL pannier bags, and more.

2. RadWagon 5

Rad Power Bikes' RadWagon 4 was adored by its customers, and the American brand finally updated it with a fifth-generation version. It's got a condensed frame for better handling, advanced safety features, and even more carrying capacity.

So, how much can it hold? 375 lb. (170 kg), with the rear rack boasting a payload of 120 lb. (54 kg). Furthermore, it sports a 750 W motor delivering 90 Nm paired with a 15 Ah battery – this combo enables a maximum range of 60 miles (97 km) per charge.

Believe it or not, parents on Rad Power Bikes' design team helped develop this cargo e-bike. So, not only is it able to carry all sorts of loads, but it's a family-friendly two-wheeler that can fit a new range of accessories, such as two child seats, a front basket, running boards, a canopy, hardshell boxes, and more – it seems like the accessories are endless.

The company kept customer safety in mind by fitting hydraulic brakes and a bright stoplight with turn signals. One new feature is the Safe Shield Battery, which boasts thermal-resistant technology. Long story short, each cell is encapsulated by a unique heat-absorbing resin design to prevent fires.

The RadWagon 5 can currently be preordered for $2,199, and delivery is estimated for late April.

3. Benno Boost

Two years ago, I wrote about the Benno Boost, which remains an excellent utility option. The inspiration for the company's range of products is the "Etility Design," where agility meets true utility. Benno Bikes claims the Boost can carry more than three times the load of a typical bike.

The Benno Boost sport bigger wheels than some of the other bikes on this list, measuring 24" by 2.6". They allow the e-bike to go faster and provide more stability when riding.

Tipping the scales at a lightweight 58.7 lb. (27 kg), the Boost has a total payload capacity of 440 lb. (200 kg). A Bosch mid-drive electric motor powers this two-wheeler, and you can currently choose between three versions for it: Performance Speed (250 W and 85 Nm), Performance CX (250W/85Nm), and Performance (250W/65Nm).

Regarding the battery, you can choose between two options: a 400 Wh one gives the e-bike 25-75 miles (40-121 km) of range, while the 500 Wh offers you an extra 5-10 miles (8-16 km). By the way, two frame versions are also available: regular and step-thru.

Benno Bikes' range of accessories is up to par with other brands in this article, featuring pannier bags, baskets, racks, rails, and passenger seats. Pricing for the Benno Boost starts at $4,500 for the Performance version, but it might vary depending on the dealer you're buying it from.

4. Aventon Abound

The Abound is Aventon's first cargo e-bike. It stands out with both impressive capabilities and a clean, striking style. To make things even better, it's got a very attractive price tag of $1,799.

Stock features are aplenty. Regarding the drive unit, you get a 750 W rear hub motor and a torque sensor offering a powerful and responsive ride. Together with an 18 V, 12 Ah, they offer up to 50 miles of range (80 km) and a top speed of 20 mph (32 kph).

You get a suspension fork, turn signals, and even a folding stem that makes transportation easier. However, what makes the Abound attractive is the range of stock features you'd normally add as extras during the check-out phase.

Currently, included in the $1,799 price tag are an extra battery, panniers, a rear rack basket, a rear rack, bamboo boards, and a cargo net. These accessories alone would normally cost more than $800, but Aventon offers them free upon purchase. What's more, the Abound comes standard with a storage bag, footboards, and integrated lights.

Cargo-carrying capabilities are really good, too – the e-bike has a payload capacity of 440 lb. (200 kg), with the rear rack supporting a maximum weight of 143 lb. (65 kg). Moreover, the all-electric two-wheeler tips the scales at a heavier 81 lb. (37 kg).

Unlike other e-bikes on the list, you don't have the option of adding child seats to the Aventon Abound, but you can fit a seat pad and handles, which are enough to take your kids for a ride, as well as other accessories.

5. Specialized Globe Haul ST

Specialized is one of the biggest names when talking about bikes, be they conventional ones or e-bikes. The company's extensive R&D ensures superior quality, which also applies to the Globe Haul ST.

This e-bike comes with all you need to go wherever you want, carrying whatever you need. One component that makes this e-bike very attractive is a powerful 700 W rear hub motor powered by a 772 Wh battery. It'll help you go fast and go long, with a top speed of 28 mph (45 kph) and a claimed range of up to 60 miles (97 km).

Cargo capacity stands at 419 lb. (190 kg), while the rear rack can hold up to 132 lb. (62 kg). What's more, The Globe Haul ST rides on 20" tires, while stopping power is provided by front and rear Tektro brakes with 203mm rotors, one of the best braking options you'll find on this list.

The e-bike comes standard with a rear rack, full-coverage fender, a center stand, and integrated lights, with the headlight having a powerful 1,500-lumen LED with three modes.

Despite the smaller frame, you're able to fit a lot of stuff. For instance, you can opt for a "School Bus Kit." which adds a passenger seat, handlebars, a basket, and pannier bags.

Specialized has currently discounted this cargo e-bike from $2,900 to $2,400. By the way, its one-size frame is designed to fit riders with heights between 4'5" all the way up to 6'4" (135 to 193 centimeters) due to a telescoping seatpost and a quill stem.

6. Tern GSD S10

If you're looking for a more premium utility e-bike, look at the Tern GSD S10, the brand's most popular electric cargo bike. Despite its shorter length, it doesn't sacrifice cargo capabilities. With a payload of up to 440 lb. (200 kg) and a dual battery system, you can go the distance while carrying heavy cargo, whether groceries or kids. If you mount both batteries, you'll have a range of up to 121 miles (195 km)

Pricing starts at $5,000, with some models ranging up to $8,700. The e-bike sports a high-end fourth-generation Bosch Cargo Line motor capable of 85 Nm of torque, topping its utilitarian purpose with a sprinkle of fun.

The extra bucks you're paying mean you get some additional premium components compared to other e-bikes on this list. For example, you get a belt drive, which translates to less maintenance and more durability. The list continues with hydraulic disk brakes and a tough Atlas Lockstand kickstand, as well as other high-quality components.

I'm fond of the Tern GSD's space-saving capabilities – you can fold it flat like other e-bikes on this list, but a feature unique to this two-wheeler is the ability to park it vertically to clear more room inside your home.

Regarding accessories, you'll find options to fulfill all your cargo-carrying needs, from front racks, baskets, a "captain's chair" and other seats, and even a bike tow kit.

7. Riese & Muller Load 75

I wanted to end this list with a bang, at least a "financial one," meaning it might blow your bank account. And that's why I chose to talk about the Riese & Muller Load 75, which is priced starting at $10,780 for the "touring" version. The "Rohloff" version is the most expensive, at $12,980.

So, what do you get for paying more than double compared to the other utility e-bikes on this list? Well, I'll start by saying this is the only electric two-wheeler that features a full suspension. It's also the only one with a front utility area.

Up to three children aged 7 or younger can safely and comfortably fit on this e-bike (if you opt for the three-seat option). The loading surface is approved for up to 154 lb. (70 kg) and measures 75 centimeters (29.5 inches) in length and 54 centimeters (21 inches) in width. They're protected from the weather conditions under a practical cover (also offered as an option). Moreover, the low center of gravity will help you easily handle the e-bike to keep your cargo safe.

All Riese & Muller Load 75 variants are equipped with Bosch Cargo line motors, which can offer assistance up to 32 kph (20 mph). Moreover, they provide a maximum torque of 85 Nm and boast a range of around 50-70 miles (113 km) due to a Bosch PowerPack 500 Performance battery.

Other notable features are 20" Schwalbe tires, a Bosch display, an 11-speed Shimano system, a kickstand, and front and rear lights.