Watch Before You Buy Any E-Cargo Bike

You’ve watched enough video of people cheerleading for e-cargo bikes. Plenty of reasons not to get one. Riding is one thing but ownership of an e-cargo bike is a very different thing entirely. Make sure you’re ready or you may find yourself regretting and wishing you got a regular ebike.

[@MarioGoatse]

You absolutely nailed this video. People really tend to underestimate just how heavy and cumbersome these cargo bikes can be. I really hope you get some more views on this so that prospective buyers see it. It’s necessary information.

[@Funcentric]

Thanks, but honestly I’m expecting this to be one of the least popular videos. People generally look to KZbin to validate what they already want rather than to see the reality and concerns of a purchase. Figured it was worth a shot to release this in case there were a few who might know there’s genuinely something to be concerned about with a purchase like this.

[@MarioGoatse]

@@Funcentric Even if only a few people that are looking to buy a cargo e-bike now watch it, it will still have been very useful. The more people that buy the correct bike from the start, the more people will actually stick with it, and possibly use their car less. That translates to more people who tell others in their circle of friends how happy they are with their e-bike, which can cause a knock-on effect. I did a lot of research before buying my hardtail Cube Reaction Hybrid, so I watched reviews of all types of bikes, and asked people on Reddit what their experience was like owning their bike. I’m extremely happy with my bike, and haven’t used my car in a few weeks. Hopefully there’s more people like me that do research first and try to make an objective decision. Anyway, I’ve liked, subscribed, and commented, so hopefully that helps push it to others too. Have a good one, mate!

[@hisnameisiam808]

Thanks guys. I think you saved me some headache! 😅

[@cargobk]

These are all valid considerations, but as somebody with a kid and two dogs with a family total past 20k miles of cargo bike use and car ownership becoming a distant memory, I think the trade offs are very much worth it. Going on “nap rides” with my 10 month old in the front of the Packster 80 facing me while she slept is an unforgettable memory that is well worth the occasional parking challenges over the years. I’ve done panniers, let me tell you, putting a shopping cart full of groceries into a shopping cart shaped bike is living the dream. These days the bike getting the most miles is a Tern GSD, it’s a step through with parallel tubing that is easy to lock, and also easy to get serviced, and can be parked vertically to save space (or for maintenance!). Also, my bikes all live outside, but under a roof, and they’re doing fine other than seasonal problems like pollen and ash.

[@ryanbeutler]

Great video with refreshingly practical information. Well done. Your point about the weight is spot on. Riding with any weight on the back does take getting used to. Even in the simple things such as getting the bike onto the stand. I take one child on a Thule yepp comfortably but if I add a few groceries etc, it’s difficult to lift it onto the stand confidently. To the point that my partner does not ride the bike with our child on board any more. I don’t know if I just have poor technique with the stand (that sounds real lame), but I don’t see how people could comfortably carry 2 children.

[@St3rmTig3r]

Stumbled on this video as I was debating between a Tern GSD cargo e-bike and a regular bike. Super helpful comments as a long time road bike rider and motorcyclist. Many helpful things I hadn’t considered regarding transportation, maintenance/repair and security considerations. Super helpful! thank you!

[@vadoiski]

Ok, I'd really like to touch on a couple of things said in this video, not that my opinion or my decisions should be taken as fact, but rather EXperience (no pun intended). I am currently on my 4th ebike, one no name crappy starter, one Lectric XP, one Santa Monica cruiser and finally one Lectric Expedition, spec'd almost the same as this gentleman's. I'd like to start with what I agree with. Weight: these are heavy, and if you came in thinking they would be lighter then the ebikes you are already shopping for are, then I wouldn't ride in general. Cost: these are 100% more than a "standard" ebike, justifiably so with a longer frame, more material, bigger motors, and bigger battery(s). Thats about where my agree section ends, but I have been a subscriber for about 5 minutes and I really enjoy your videos! Now my disagreements and reasons why. This fella lives in California, where the weather is almost perfect, and the laws are so strict you might as well walk. Limiting motors, speed and sometimes battery capacity depending on city ordinances. For example, florida where I live, road riding is preferred by law enforcement, along with no one ever being even stopped by law enforcement in our ebike community. To touch on "ridability". Let's not mistake this for a flaw in the design of cargo bikes, rather than a skill issue. Plenty of people can maneuver 1,000 pound Harleys with a passenger just fine :). Bike shops not having room for maintenance? I've been to possibly dozens of bike shops, never has this been the case.. ever.. who will ever get more than 6 bags of groceries? I dont know possibly the people who want to carry their children or their significant other? 6 bags of groceries being "who gets more than 6 bags" is a crazy statement. We rarely of ever leave the supermarket with less than 12-15 bags, which I have carried on that exact same ebike due to a 400lb towing capacity :). While I agree with your statements, your deliver seems super bias based on your location and your experience. Not based off of a unbiased point of view you should have for such a title on this video. None the less, I enjoy your content, and can't wait for more!

[@Funcentric]

Thanks for taking the time to provide feedback for others to read. Yes, I can only speak to my situation and experience. I do rely on others like you to speak to other experiences that I don’t have. A dozen bags of groceries I’d say is quite unusual. I assume you have a large family or don’t frequent the grocery market that often. I would say most folks go no less often than perhaps once a week unless it’s a Costco run, then maybe once a month. Even then, my family of four is nowhere close to 12 bags. Most riders in general don’t have adult passengers, cargo bike or not. So a utility bike or bike that doesn’t have the capacity to hold an adult passenger I think is expected. Florida probably has more floor space for bikes. There won’t be many shops around San Francisco that will take an electric cargo bike that doesn’t sell them for service. I’ve had similar experience for my recumbent trikes. 1000lb Harley Davidson’s have much more horsepower to support the weight of a passenger. Not really comparable to a bicycle even when powered by electricity. I would also argue that those riding a Harley are more experienced as it requires a license. Buying and riding an ebike has zero cost for entry apart from the price of the bike. A lot less commitment which is why we see so many people on them who probably shouldn’t be. With that reasoning, I’d actually say motorcycle riders are riding safer than many ebikers who are so new to cycling in general and mistakenly think an electrified bike would solve all their problems. The purpose of the video was to help people consider other options as I have observed many prematurely look into cargo bikes when they can do much better without one. Many for instance would actually so much better with a stand up escooter. Many benefits but of course can’t really realistically hold a passenger and ones that take hills will need to be dual motor and be in excess of $1,300ish. Every vehicle has its purpose. I just feel that people are overlooking the other options and going straight into cargo bikes too quickly. So many videos on performance and spec comparisons but nothing about the burdens of ownership.

[@vadoiski]

@Funcentric I agree with 90% of this comment! I especially agree with not rushing into cargo ebikes, I would say this is a good 2nd or third ebike (if you are in need of cargo). The ebike you mentioned on the wall, you and I know the price but most don't, it's expensive, another perk I would have mentioned isn't "if it can haul it" but the ease of which it can haul it. I have hauled 200lbs if camping gear for a family of 4, over 100 miles on the lectric. But like we both said, use case is case to case!

[@Funcentric]

@@vadoiski The Rip Racer Class 3 om the wall is a budget bike too which I categorize as anything under $1,500 ish. $1,299. Was on sale on Labor Day for $1,000 and Class 2 for $900. Crazy low. As far as hauling, there’s definitely a difference between hauling love load and static load. Also how it’s situated makes a difference. Much easier to carry my two kids who are shorter and with their weight distributed vs carrying only my wife who weighs about the same but all in the back on the Plus One seat. There’s no arguing the physics of a long tail bike has different riding dynamics than a standard Diamond frame bike. Add load to it and it’s a whole new ball game.

[@vadoiski]

@Funcentric I concure. Classifying a rip as "budget" is kind of questionable considering lectric xp 3.0 exists on sale at the 799 mark. But then again, California's tax rate is criminal so I'm not too sure on the final costs of bikes on your end! Certain months out of the year bikes aren't taxed here.

[@Funcentric]

@@vadoiski considering 48v 14ah lithium ion batteries have a retail cost $350-550 and Lectric being a budget brand with very competitive pricing, Lectric isnt exactly the standard for budget. Budget pricing goes a lot higher in range than Lectric’s offerings. Premium bikes are in the $4-7k area. Stromers can get up to $12k. Specialized and Tern can be in the 5 digits as well. High end performance bikes but not quite premium are in the $2,300-$3k ish area. $1,300 by comparison is certainly budget.

[@christopherkoure1938]

Thank you so much for your videos. You are so spot on with the things you share. I truly appreciate it. I just got my first E-bike (Nomad 1 step over) and it's a beast. I have 3 other road bikes and I wanted something for the dirt roads in the mountains of western Maine. This stuff is so not my Miyata 912! Your so right that we need to consider the logistics of day to day.

[@ccederlo]

Thanks for this honest take on cargo bikes. It's a little too late for me, I'm a bit anxious about the maintenance logistics, and we'll see what happens! Seems like even basic maintenance of changing a rear tire in the case of a flat is going to be real rough. What to do when out on a ride and that happens?! Hopefully someone can pick me up 😅. Perhaps I'll lock the bike somewhere, call an Uber and drive back to pick up the bike. I plan to get a motorcycle rack for shop maintenance trips, but gah, another rack. Oh well, it's just stuff and thankfully I do have the space. I have hope that my Aventon Abound will still be useful for my cargo plans (Costco shopping among others, haha) and upon further thought, I don't see another good method. I like the idea of a trailer as it adds flexibility and options across the board. However, I fear the safety risks with the trailer. In any case, I'll use my cargo bike as an opportunity to learn. If all else fails, I can sell the equipment and be back at the start again with a more wisdom and perhaps just a little less money.

[@thaneknight]

Excellent points, also living in areas that most people do a cargo bike isn't a good fit. A cargo bike is better suited for places that have bike infrastructure.Most American cities are built and designed around cars, a heavy bike that is difficult to maneuver and secure isn't a good fit.I'm a bike commuter and I find bikes that are slow to respond a liability.I wish this wasn't the case but it is what it is.Fantastic video.

[@Funcentric]

@@thaneknight Good points!

[@714mattman]

I have owned a Lectric Xpedition for about 6 months now and love it, but I agree it is definitely not for everyone. People need to carefully consider whether they really need such a large and heavy e-bike before purchasing. I bought the 2 battery configuration and it gives tremendous range especially if you use pedal assist and not throttle. I have gone more than 60 miles in a single trip. Where I live has some long steep hills and it handles them quite well. The range and the storage capacity was the thing that sold it for me as I ride to various beaches and parks with my metal detector strapped to the back. It works perfectly for doing that. Also, I agree that the best way to lock it is a heavy cinch chain coupled with a D lock(I actually use 2 D locks and a cinch chain, but I am paranoid). I have not had to drive it anywhere with my Subaru Outback yet, but I may have to at some point. I still need to figure out how I am going to do that. If you know of any car rack that will fit this cargo bike I would love to know which ones will work. Thanks.

[@Funcentric]

Thanks for sharing to your experiences. I personally would only trust a deck style hitch rack for a bike like this. I know it’s not super heavy but I too am paranoid. Would feel safer with a motorcycle rack or the type used to carry bags or ice chests - not the bike specific ones. I may still try it since I don’t really want to pay for nor store yet another rack. 60mi on your XPedition is quite a lot! Less than the company’s claim by a lot but still a lot to me. Haha.

[@714mattman]

​@@FuncentricThe maximum range listed by companies on any ebike is often a bit misleading. Those numbers generally depend on using low pedal assist with ideal riding conditions ie completely flat areas and no stop/starting. I like to get places in a hurry so I use pedal assist level 4 or 5 most of the time. Where I live is quite hilly so that affects battery life negatively as well. The amount of weight(rider + cargo) you carry on the ebike makes a difference in range as well. Also, I have unlocked class 3 on the Xpedition so I am riding at more then 20mph often. Depending on your use you may be able to get quite a bit more or even a little less maximum range than I have achieved.

[@Funcentric]

@@714mattman totally! I think people underestimate their. The range chart on the XPedition isn’t based on load! No load on a cargo bike? Pathetic. Can’t believe Lectric would do a “real world range test” of a cargo bike with no cargo!

[@TakoOcto]

Thanks bro, very useful as i've been thinking of getting one. Didn't think about the taking the bike to the bike shop point

[@kerviuskuroshiba5120]

Appreciate the time and effort for you to make this video for this discussion. I was thinking about the Expedition and all of your points really gave me the red light to halt my plans on getting one. To be brief, I have a RadCity Gen 1/2 and the shop that can service the bike is rather far. The process of getting down there would be a hassle since I do not know how to drive a car. I have been taking extra care and being more cautious on using my bike, but I feel like she needs a proper check up or even a full upgrade since I bought her about 4-5 years ago. If I bought that expedition cargo bike, the frustrations would have been increased like ten-fold. TYVM for your insight 👍😃

[@Funcentric]

Glad you found the video useful and I'm happy to hear I may have saved you from headaches. Utility bike is really the way to go for most people. Cargo bikes are way too over rated.

[@StephanieDaugherty]

Between cost and weigh/size considerations, I ended up settling on a cargo trailer for the times when I need more carrying capacity. Not much extra weight, that weight can be separated from the bike entirely when it's time to put it away, and I don't have to have the trailer attached all the time. Given that I don't have kids, this is perfect for me - I've got the benefits of a cargo bike at much less cost and with fewer drawbacks.

[@Funcentric]

Sounds like a perfect match to me! Great!

[@lordfubar1]

I have a cargo trailer too. I have used it a few times, mainly to bring home a 40 pound bag of dog food. Way easier and safer than securing on my back rack. I tried using it to grocery shop a couple of times, but parking and locking it was a problem. Hopefully, some day folks in this country will treat all bicycles as something more than recreation. Safer bike lanes and secured parking would be a nice start.

[@Funcentric]

@@lordfubar1 oh yeah, heavy non live load at low heights would be much better.

[@davemeise2192]

You are so right about cargo bikes being a lot bigger than you expect. I have a Radwagon 4 and I'm happy with it but it is very big. More than I expected when I bought it. With the accessories I have on mine it weighs about 41 Kg (about 90 pounds). I don't have a vehicle cycle rack yet but when I do get one it's going to have to be very well built. I haven't had any issues with a wobbly front end while hauling cargo but I haven't carried any passengers or large awkward stuff either.

[@Funcentric]

Yeah, the Radwagon was way too big for my 5’-7” frame. Scary actually. It made me not want a cargo bike at all.

[@JohnCuppi]

Great video man. Just real information with no product pumping.

[@cargobk]

This week I swapped the rear brake pads on my Tern GSD by putting a stack of short 2x6’s under the kickstand to lift the rear of the bike off the ground and the whole time I was thinking about you flipping a cargo bike upside down to work on it. I don’t have anything bigger than a regular park work stand, but between that, sturdy kickstands and a little creativity, I’ve never needed to flip a cargo bike upside down. Strong advice though would be to never ever get a cargo bike without a super solid kickstand that will let you get wheels off the ground.

[@wsdejong]

I'm glad I watched this video. I'm still considering a cargo bike because I'm planning to take two kids to school, but maybe a utility or regular e-bike and a trailer is a better option. I can always remove the trailer when I'm not taking kids. (Edit: I just saw your response to someone else thinking the same) I was looking at the specs of the new RadWagon 5, and it's a full 86lbs! Almost 90lbs *before* putting any cargo on it. That's ridiculous to me.

[@RML-v2d]

Chain tensioner does not move in and out as chain moves from gear to gear. I’m looking for a 4” long guide roller with BEARINGS👍

[@jtam70]

I actually had a cargo ebike in my shopping cart. I wanted it for my wife thinking it will fit her better. Then I saw your video. Needless to say, it's no longer in my cart. Subbed!

[@Funcentric]

Haha, didn’t mean to talk you out of it. Just want to make sure it’s suitable for people before they buy. My wife won’t ride it because the learning curve is steep. I agree and would be worried with her on it even without kids. I’m 5’-7” and barely fit it with the kid handlebars installed because it doesn’t allow me to go any lower for my wife who’s a few inches shorter.

[@jtam70]

@@Funcentric It’s all good. My wife and I are first time e-bike riders so really looking at what is best for us. Very helpful videos!

[@Funcentric]

@@jtam70 thanks. Regular ebike or utility ebike would be my recommendation for most.

[@antoniiocaluso1071]

dang...no giggling Latina racin' up-n-down the road/trails, endlessly shouting..."this is great"??? huh....that's a switch, but OK!! :-) THIS CHANNELS IS THE BEST, for the Truth!!

[@Funcentric]

@@antoniiocaluso1071 haha. Thanks! Yeah too much hype for all this stuff. People only show the joys of riding but not the downsides of actual ownership. It’s being maintained and stored more often than it’s being used.

[@Tweetogreggieb59]

Two thumbs up 👍👍Actionable content, great video, good explanations and visualization , time well spent.✌😎

[@Funcentric]

Thanks!

[@njsarn]

Very good comments, thoughts. I bought a single eBike. Thanks.

[@Funcentric]

@@njsarn Thanks, “single” meaning one bike or meaning for one rider?

[@njsarn]

@@Funcentric It’s a one rider bike. I almost fell for the cargo ebike. 😅

[@Funcentric]

@@njsarn Glad you reconsidered. A lot of drawbacks of a cargo bike people don’t consider and then follows the regret. But no one talks about that because telling people the truth apparently isn’t a good way to sell bikes.

[@KDBA]

I'm looking into buying an ebike right now and this has given me a lot to think about. I'm a tall, heavy rider (6'2", 130kg) so currently cargo bikes are high up on my list of possibilities as they can actually carry me,.

[@Funcentric]

Your height is definitely not the only reason to get a cargo bike. Way too many drawbacks make it not worth it. Hopefully there’s other reasons to get one. I have a few videos on what else to think about when looking for an ebike.

[@dmmmwerd]

Underrated channel. Great info.

[@Funcentric]

Thanks!

[@robinsonsontheroll5482]

I just ordered the xpedition for my husband he is 6’2 and 330. I have a 3.0 with a seat so I can take one kid but now he can take one or we can swap and I can take both. Luckily we are in the suburbs and have indoor storage for it.

[@Funcentric]

Good but keep in mind that the bike has a 400lb weight limit and 300lbs in the back. So that leaves 70lbs back there tops.

[@abbe1abbe156]

Thanks for this video. I decided to use a baby carrier to haul groceries in the back.

[@MetaDoll]

You are right about that!! I have a radrunner plus and I have access to a radcity 5 plus, they are regular sized bikes so I thought I needed a cargo bike, so I got a lectric xpedition one. I like the bike a lot and I can get a lot done with the bike like go shopping while bring my kid along and so on, but the bike is heavy and I feel nervous riding that bike in comparison to the other regular sized ebikes.. Sometimes I feel that I would probably be better off just sticking with a regular size e bike and maybe attach a trailer on it If I feel that I need to carry extra stuff.

[@RyanBreaker]

For those times you do need to carry heavier or bulkier items with a normal e-bike, you can also get an excellent trailer for ~$300.

[@Funcentric]

True, but personally I would just take the car at that point. Storage of a trailer when not in use which will be 99% of the time isn’t something I’d want to deal with.

[@RyanBreaker]

@@Funcentric Have you checked out the trailers from Burley such as the Travoy or Flatbed? They're super easy to use, fold up, and stow away. The Travoy is especially popular for grocery runs given it doubles as a handcart.

[@NRP1991]

Great video man great topics. Absolutely crushed it. Love my xpedition still. Lots of pros. Lots of cons. It still s good bike 😊

[@Funcentric]

Thanks. Yeah I’m starting to like mine more and more. Just wanted to make a video showing people it’s not for everyone. My favorite bike is still the Juiced Rip Racer. Only holds one kid at a time though.

[@吃喝玩乐-g4o]

Is there any recommendation for a passenger bicycle (carrying an adult)

[@Funcentric]

If one adult, you can look for a utility bike instead of a cargo bike. Many will have weight capacity of over 130lbs.

[@M5Dri3rz]

I use my Xpedition for just this and it is great. I'm a pretty experienced road and mountain bike rider but it took me 2 or 3 rides to get comfortable with a 150lb passenger on the back. This thing will eat front brake pads when you have 2 people on it, though. Expect to replace them every 3-4 months.

[@gregmccaslin7400]

Thank you , a lot of food for thought .👍

[@seymorekitty1484]

What do you think of vitilan i7 pro?

[@Funcentric]

Looks like a China brand. Pass. Way too new of a company 2022? I would never buy from a company that straight up lies in their website. I’m searching and not able to verify that their batteries really are UL certified even though they claim it on their website. In general, never buy China junk at American prices. If you’ve going to buy China junk, you should be saving money at the very least. I’m offended when a China brand prices their products as if there’s no value of an American company. Is there a reason you’re looking at this company as opposed to something with a better reputation?

[@Mr95GSR]

What kinda e-bike wall rack is that?

[@Funcentric]

I was surprised the weight limit was 130lbs. Amazon, Bike Wall Mount | Horizontal... www.amazon.com/dp/B079Y9M8SN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share The wheels basically sit on a small shelf and get hung by the inside pedal. Ingenious. Looks like they don’t sell this specific model but aliexpress has it too. Similar to this, a.aliexpress.com/_mLx6ZJc

[@extraHERO]

Could you make a video about what you like about the xpedition. It seems like my dream bike because I want something with dual batteries and large towing capacity

[@Funcentric]

@@extraHERO Well if these are your requirements, then this is it. Wait for a holiday sale where they give away accessories and then just buy it. It’s still very good value. I like it for all the reasons everyone else does - value and best customer service. I also prefer a cadence sensor over a torque. If I didn’t, I episode gotten an Aventon Abound. Much better quality, but customer service is suspect. But from an actual bike shop though and they’ll put it together for you for free and make sure the brakes don’t squeal.

[@extraHERO]

@@Funcentric wow you answered that perfectly!

[@colleenwright-kakkar6384]

This was great.

[@Funcentric]

Thanks. Hope it helped you. My uncle just got a utility bike. Glad he didn’t go for a cargo.

[@danmiller5297]

I appreciate the real world objectivity of your videos, thank you. My thoughts on a cargo bike, are I am the cargo at 290 pounds. Can you suggest a non cargo bike that will transport my bulk up and down hills. Thanks again

[@Funcentric]

Thanks. I’m not a sponsored channel so the only bikes I’ve ridden are ones I test ride at demo events, friend’s bikes, those of friendly passerby’s and my own so still limited. For hill climbing, maybe something like the Wired Freedom or similar. I have spoken directly with a real owner who loves his and he was at least 200lbs. I don’t have personal experience with it as of yet. We plan to have me test ride his but that hasn’t happened yet. 48v will be tough for hills though which is what is currently the USA standard for voltage. And many of the companies that claim hillimbing isn’t really a hill climber. Unless it’s a dual motor which is rare and quite expensive.

[@danmiller5297]

Thank you for your reply, I do appreciate it, I'll look into the wired Freedom. @@Funcentric

[@joekeuler5811]

where's the link to get these?

[@Funcentric]

This isn’t specifically about any ebike in particular. This isn’t a sponsored video nor a monetized channel. You can look them up yourself. Lectric XPedition, Aventon Abound, Heybike Haul, etc to name a few. Just stay away from Radpower Radwagon, particularly the older ones.

[@NativeSonSF]

Still way cheaper, lighter, manueverable and faster than driving a car in SF!

[@Funcentric]

Obviously but only if you don’t already have a car. Likely you’d be paying insurance for the car regardless of how often you drive it. I don’t see a bike as a real car replacement for most buyers but yes that is the case for some people. Sometimes people just get lost in how long it would really take them to recoup the cost of the bike.

[@NativeSonSF]

I went the "cheap" route and converted a used Surly Big Dummy with a Bafang BBSHD motor. I think it's easily paid for itself in time, parking, less stress and exercise over the past three years. I still need a car but the bike is my preferred method of transportation around the City.@@Funcentric

[@Becizzle]

I can't imagine this bike in SF. It's insanely hilly. I was born and raised in SF. Never rode a bike around because drivers are insane. I'm in the suburbs of Sacramento now with two boys and it's been lovely taking it for school drop off and pick up. Can you put two kids on a lighter bike? I don't think so. Will be great for many years and then sell it once my older kid is able to ride independently.

[@NativeSonSF]

The Pandemic changed the SF biking scene. More bike lanes, more slow streets and drivers that are more aware of cyclists. I'm a couple of thousand miles in with no probems. @@Becizzle

[@Funcentric]

@@Becizzle I don’t know if you’ve seen my video about replacing it. 11-34T freewheel now but I haven’t had to use the 34T much at all. PAS 5 and gear 3 usually takes care of the big hills. Exception is if I’m running on low voltage.

[@positivelynegative9149]

👍

[@Funcentric]

Back at ya! Thanks.

[@kimlee7875]

What is a good alternative to cargo bike for light commuting and grocery shopping? Lectric XP? Riese and Muller Tinker? Please help!

[@Funcentric]

@@kimlee7875 Those are very different bikes. If you have the budget for a Riese and Muller, then a Tern GSD may be worth a look. I’m less familiar with the high end bikes though. I’ve test ridden but nothing too extensive. The Lectric brand is definitely a budget brand it and it feels that way.

[@StevenLawrenceHeston]

​@@FuncentricThanks, but GSD _is_ a cargo bike. Please give examples of a "regular" non cargo bike for shopping. For example, what is that yellow bike in your video?

[@Funcentric]

@@StevenLawrenceHeston HSD is a cargo bike. GSD is a utility bike. You said light cargo so you’d probably want a utility bike. The yellow one is a Juiced Rip Racer.

[@StevenLawrenceHeston]

@@Funcentric GSD is bigger and heavier than the HSD. I think you mean Tern Quick Haul, Globe Haul ST, or Radrunners.

[@Funcentric]

@@StevenLawrenceHeston You’re right. I got those mixed up. I meant HSD as the smaller one. Basically you don’t need a GSD is what I’m saying. Whether you go with Globe Haul or their smaller ones, GSD is overkill for what your needs are. If you use it exclusively for grocery shopping then something that’ll easily carry panniers is what you want. I just find it hard to justify a $3k bike to “save” a few bucks. The question isn’t really what is the best bike. It’s what is the best bike for you. I don’t really know much about you so I hesitate to just give you a generic recommendation. I put together a few videos about how to select an ebike or whether an ebike is really something you’d really want in the first place. You’ll need to consider how handy you are in working on bikes, how much you’d even want to do it at all, how you feel about replacing tubes, how athletic you are, where to store, how often you ride, how long you plan to keep it, how you see your situation changing in the next few years etc. There are a lot of factors in selecting the right bike. Also a budget shouldn’t be a generic number. There needs to be some reasonability behind it based on what’s available out there and your financial situation. Too many people just arbitrarily say they don’t want to spend more than X without knowing the context. There’s a big difference between a $800 bike and a $1,200 bike. Less difference between a $3k and $4K bike for instance.

[@soramame7528]

Hi. is that rear seat (with handles) from Lectric? I have a radrunner and trying to find a seat for a five year old.

[@Funcentric]

@@soramame7528 Juiced Bikes. It’s the oem one from there rip racer.

[@maxnguyen22]

How much does it weigh?

[@Funcentric]

Depends on the bike. All the spec sheet will tell you the weight. Either way, any bike weighing more than 27lbs or so will require a hitch rack to transport the bike on a car.

[@LoneHowler]

If they could give me the power and weight capacity in a smaller bike I'd be happy. I'm a tall heavier rider and few e-bikes can handle me

[@Funcentric]

XPedition is as beefy as they come. As for power to weight ratio, Tern would be it. Mid drive, small package but $5-9k USD. If you have a bigger budget, check out the Benno Boost. I test rode that. Solid. But pricey.

[@ddg2813]

Should I get the rad wagon utility bike over Lectric cargo bike, I live in the mountains so hills are the big thing

[@Funcentric]

Do you mean Radpower utility bike or Radwagon cargo bike? There’s no Radwagon utility bike.

[@714mattman]

I have a Lectric Xpedition and where I live is quite hilly. IMO it handles steep hills quite well. Keep in mind that I generally pedal at a PAS 5 setting when going uphill rather than use throttle only.

[@Funcentric]

@@714mattman oh yeah, you can’t expect a bike to go up a hill on throttle only unless it’s a dual motor or 72v. Even then, it’s not going to be so good for the motor. Maybe I just have a different sense of what constitutes as a hill.

[@Mrs052409]

How do u feel about 2 kids age 2 and 3 riding in the back with Thule Yepp Maxi seats ? Do u believe that’s Safe ?

[@Funcentric]

Not at all. I cringe every time I see a Yepp seat on a cargo bike. Knowing the rider is a beginner, has never owned an ebike or cargo bike makes it exponentially worse. I see it all the time and no one is shouting about its dangers other than me so maybe I’m just being overly paranoid. I would never do it myself if my kids were that young. Never ever. Each to their own.

[@kevtd23]

Ok first you have great content and thank you. Now wife and I are considering e-cargo bike as family kid hauler (two kids, age 2 and 5). Lectric Exp seems to be the one but the weight and cumbersome nature, especially for my petite wife has me with second thoughts. Curious your thoughts on a regular e bike with one rear seat option plus having a burley to tow when both kids need to be on it. Seems better when NOT hauling both kids and if it can handle adding some load, seems best of both works. Any recommendations for a “regular” e bike with capacity to have one small-ish rider plus 1-2 smallish riders in a burley trailer?

[@Funcentric]

I cringe when I see a cargo bike with two yep seats. It’s literally the most dangerous bike on the road topped by perhaps a trailer behind it. I used to ride my two kids about your kids age in a trailer from a recumbent trike but it was purely for fun and mostly riding on closed roads. Not for commute nor anything practical. I highly advise against pulling a kid in a trailer in a city environment and even more so with an ebike. I see your predicament though. The yellow bike in the video I had gotten before the XPedition and it worked great, but for one kid so it didn’t get used as often. I would advise getting a cargo bike before a utility one with trailer. Each to their own but I’m not a fan of trailers purely for safety reasons. I’m already worried bout getting rear ended by some jerk. To get rear ended hauling a trailer with kids would be devastating.

[@kevtd23]

I appreciate the perspective. Thank you. We have a friend with a Lectric Exp and are hoping they’ll let us try it out a few times. If my wife feels she can manage, that’s probably good for us. The Bunch Bike is tempting but we tried it and it really isn’t a very enjoyable ride. Nice to have the kids in what I think is the safest means on e-bike but the ride is just weird and I know would NEVER get used outside of hauling the kids for a family time. Dunno, could be a Bunch coupled with strictly fun/commuter w/out the kids may be the way to go but wow…$$$. Anyway, again thanks.

[@Funcentric]

@@kevtd23 I have a video you may be interested in about the XPedition. Just be aware that the seat is fairly high with the barrow bar accessory. It heightens the seat meaning it increases the minimum height of the seat. I’m 5’-7” and found the lowest setting to be the most comfortable with kids on the back. I can’t imagine anyone shorter riding it safely/comfortably with the barrow bar installed.

[@Mywifetoldmetochangemyname]

@@Funcentric Interesting take. Most safety organizations suggest the trailer first, as they are the safest way to transport kids by bike. Most of them have a rotating hitch, and wont flip if the bike goes down. They also have roll cages.

[@Funcentric]

@@Mywifetoldmetochangemyname generally the weight of a cargo bike no matter whether storage is in front or rear will not be flipping due to the overall weight of the frame. Front loaders are way harder to learn to ride despite what others may be saying on Reddit or other sources. The physics of it objectively make it more difficult to learn on. Front loaders also weigh more due to the frame configuration and that in itself with the front wheel being so far from the steering column doesn’t make for a short learning curve at all.

[@chavoloco1666]

Im only getting it so i can give a ride to my siblings

[@z313d]

Let's say u are built like a stick figure, and have trouble pushing a pencil across paper...what kinda bar-b-q sauce should I put in my lawnmower?!?!😂😂😂

[@Funcentric]

@@z313d Italian

[@glong2720]

While I understand your take on this bike, I am surprised a mechanically inclined person like yourself would purchase this unit without first checking it out. You seem very frugal, so again the obvious complaints you just disclosed should have been a concern prior to the purchase. Did you not test drive one prior to buying?? I appreciate your opinion with this bike but I am just a bit surprised.

[@Funcentric]

@@glong2720 budget bikes are generally direct to consumer. So 99% of buyers don’t have a chance to test ride. As a budget bike, I was willing to take the risk particularly from a company with a reputation for excellent customer service. The topics I bring up in this video are more warnings than complaints. Complaints would be in the review of this bike which is a different video all together. I’m not regretting getting a cargo bike one bit. The video is just to point out to OTHER people why THEY probably shouldn’t get one for themselves. I have a very different tolerance level than most consumers. I feel this way about rc cars too. The use of these things are so glorified. No one talks about the actual ownership which may be a bigger pain for people than they anticipate. It’s more often stored than used.

[@hupo]

But it looks so cool that's mainly why I'm getting a xpedition lmao

[@Funcentric]

Aesthetically, the Aventon Abound looks better.

[@hupo]

@@Funcentric yeah but they locked people out of class 3. That's a big no no. Packer 1?

[@Funcentric]

@@hupo with a cargo bike especially holding live load, speeds over 20mph is less of a problem than with a regular bike. I thought the same as you until I started riding a cargo.

[@nonegone7170]

You shouldn't buy a cargo bike because you can wear a backpack? Right...

[@Funcentric]

I think you’re missing the point. It’s okay. Maybe if you rewatch a few times, you’ll get it.

[@lordfubar1]

C'mon man, with all your KZbin money flowing in, you could have gotten a Riese & Muller Packster 70 cargo bike and then be smiling everyday just like in the videos. Since I don't have a KZbin channel or a house to take out a second mortgage in order to afford that ebike, I went with a non-cargo ebike and some big ass shopping panniers I got from Amazon. According to one reviewer, the panniers can hold 8 gallons of milk (4 per side). I have never done that, but I do use mini bungee cords hold down the top flap and have the panniers fully extended to hold about 3 weeks of groceries. That still leaves the top back rack available to stack stuff on and held with a bungee cargo net. I sold my car about 14 years ago and never bought another one. My life became a lot more simple by buying a bicycle instead and using public transportation with or without the bicycle. Then about 2 years ago, I got fancy and bought an ebike with duel batteries. I have range anxiety too. Now I'm smiling just like in the Biktrix Juggernaut Hub Duo step-thru videos.

[@Funcentric]

Awesome! As a family man, I can't get away with just a bike, but I do wish I got a bike sooner in life. Haha, KZbin money? Not even close. Totally not monetized. Those ads you might be seeing are just KZbin pushing their own ads taking advantage of creators. I get zero cents.

[@lokokrz.gaming]

Do you own your own business?😮

[@videyohgamer]

Pan yer. Not pan yay🤨

[@Funcentric]

Trying to be French about it. Haha.

[@mabellucena2485]

"Promosm" 🙄

[@jasonbuzzalini5174]

I’m still waiting to see this bike put through a maximum cargo hauling test!💯

[@Funcentric]

Not by me, haha.