How it works
Depending on the model up to six children can ride along in a cargo bike. Some cargo bikes are specially designed for taking children. Similar to bike trailers, babies who are not yet able to sit independently can be transported in special infant swings or child seats (depending on the cargo bike model). In most models, the children are seated in front of the cyclist. This means that you can always see them and communicate with them during the ride.
Suspension is important
If a baby is riding along in a cargo bike, the bike or the carrier seat should have suspension as it is comfortable for the baby and gentle on its back. If a child is able to sit independently it can ride along in the cargo bike on an upholstered bench seat, for example. In all cargo bikes, the little passengers are buckled up with model-dependent belt systems, whether in the infant swing, the carrier seat or on the bench seat.
Infant carrier car seats as another possibility
You can use the cargo bike with a carrier car seat as well. This requires a special construction (see picture on the right) which can be installed by the specialised dealer. The carrier car seat often takes up a lot of space, so that another child can usually only be taken with you in a child seat on the luggage rack.
If a baby is riding along in a cargo bike, the bike or the carrier seat should have suspension because babies do not have enough muscles to adequately absorb bumps and shocks.
Different types of cargo bikes
A cargo bike can have two or three wheels. Both types of bikes have different riding qualities and should be tested before purchase. Two-wheel cargo bikes can be ridden more sportily than three-wheels. Depending on the topographical conditions, a cargo bike with electric support up to 25 km/h is advisable. Otherwise the cyclist might physically struggle with the high unladen weight of the bike, the additional weight of the children and uphill traffic. The prices of cargo bikes start at around 1,800 euros (as of July 2018).
Pros / Cons
Pros: Almost all cargo bikes allow a higher weight load than bike trailers. Slightly larger children often enjoy the good view they have on the cargo bike. As soon as the children are mobile themselves, the cargo bike can still be used for other purposes, such as larger shopping tasks.
Cons: A cargo bike is longer, wider, and usually significantly heavier than a conventional bike. It also requires significantly more storage space. Cargo bikes do not fit in elevators. They have a larger turning circle than a normal bike and are less flexible in everyday use than a bike with a trailer or child seat.
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