Can You Use an Electric Cargo Bike for a Long Commute?

Electric cargo bikes have become a popular choice for people wanting an affordable and eco-friendly way to transport themselves and their goods.

Renowned for their high storage capacity, cargo electric bikes are a versatile transport solution. Due to their increased size and weight, they do come with a bit of a learning curve. But the learning how to use an electric cargo bike is worth the effort.

Now, you may wonder how far a long-range cargo ebike can take you. That depends on the model type and other factors including riding style, terrain, body type, and route. In this article, you will find out how to use a cargo ebike for long commuting.

Is an Electric Cargo Bike Right for My Long Commute?

An electric cargo bike is a great choice for a long commute. Many manufacturers are introducing dual-battery models, which can go nearly twice as far as single-battery models.

Many dual-battery electric bikes can travel 80+ miles on a single charge. They have two individual batteries, which work together to supply power to the electric motor.

Dual batteries make going on long commutes easier. You can travel greater distances when dropping the kids off at school or collecting groceries from the store. The longer travel range also lets delivery riders complete more trips in less time.

Here are a few questions to ask when considering an electric cargo bike.

How Far Can You Realistically Go?

That depends on the type of model you choose. The most important details are the total battery capacity and the advertised maximum travel range. Naturally, the higher the battery capacity, the farther you can go on a single charge.

There are other factors at play, though. How you ride and what you carry can impact the travel range. If you’re carrying a heavy load (transporting children, carrying heavy groceries) and using the highest pedal assist mode, you will have a noticeably shorter ride.

The key to getting the most out of a long-range cargo ebike is simple. Choose one with a travel range that closely matches your commute distance.

Is your commute to work about 25 miles? A 692Wh battery (55 miles range) should take you there and back on a single charge. Even then, you can charge the bike at work.

Can the Cargo Capacity Meet Your Needs?

How much will you need to carry on a regular trip? The average total capacity on a cargo ebike is around 350 to 440 lbs. Some can go even higher. When calculating how much cargo capacity you need, factor in your weight and the weight of your items.

Let’s say your cargo ebike for commuter can carry 440 lbs. So, if you weigh 150 lbs, that leaves you with about 290 lbs of storage. This makes the Hauler ideal for many situations: picking up your kids from school, transporting heavy supplies, and running errands.

Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for recommended weight limits. And never exceed the weight limit, either. Doing so could reduce the electric motor’s performance and cause long-term damage.

Can You Stay Comfortable on Long Journeys?

Comfort is very important when traveling long distances. But it’s a very subjective feeling – with many variables to consider.

Choose an electric bike with a saddle that conforms to your natural anatomy. Male riders tend to prefer longer, narrower seats, while female riders tend to prefer shorter and wider seats. Optional cutouts can also help relieve pressure on the pelvis.

There are exceptions to these standards, of course. In many cases, most people are fine with a unisex saddle. If you’re using an electric cargo bike to transport small children, ensure their seating is comfortable and their seatbelts are secure.

How to Make Long Commutes Easier With an Electric Cargo Bike

Most electric bikes have high-capacity batteries. However, there are many ways to extend the range of your ride. Use these energy-saving tips to prepare your cargo ebike for a long distance tour.

Ride at the Appropriate Speed

The speed at which you ride can have an impact on battery life. But it also depends on how hard the electric motor is working.

Let’s say you’re maintaining speed using the throttle or pedal assist while climbing a steep hill. Under these circumstances, the motor is working harder, and the battery is draining faster. However, if you’re riding fast downhill, then the force of gravity is doing most of the work for you.

Put simply, if gravity is working against you (and you’re using the motor to maintain a high speed), you can expect a shorter battery life.

Use the Right Pedal Assist Mode

Most electric bikes have 5 pedal assist modes. The higher the assist, the harder you work the motor and the less pedaling you need to do. Of course, this means you drain the battery faster too.

To optimize your battery usage, set the pedal assist to low when riding on smooth, flat terrain. And when riding on rough surfaces or climbing steep inclines, take advantage of the higher pedal assist. This way, you receive the right level of assistance for different situations.

Benefits of Using an E-Cargo Bike for Long Commutes

There are many good reasons to use an e-cargo bike for long commutes. Their powerful motors and high-capacity batteries enable you to travel fast and far. And they’re an eco-friendly alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles.

Some of the many advantages of using cargo ebikes for long commutes are:

• Affordability – Regardless of local energy rates, it usually costs less than a dollar to charge an ebike battery from zero.
• Eco-friendly – Unlike gasoline-powered vehicles, electric cargo bikes do not produce harmful emissions.
• Avoid traffic congestion – Riding a cargo ebike means you can use footpaths and bike paths. You also avoid being stuck in road traffic.
• Versatile – With a high payload capacity and dual-battery setup, you can transport more and ride further than other electric bikes.

Final Thought

A cargo ebike for commuting is an effective way to transport people and goods over long distances.

But it’s important to choose a model with the right balance of motor power, battery size, and storage capacity. This way, you can transport what you need – and to your desired destinations – every time.

Discover the Heybike Hauler for the most capable long range electric bike.