Choosing an electric cargo bike is an important decision. Because you have a choice of different motor types, battery capacities, cargo areas and drive systems. Therefore, the best choice depends on how you are going to use the cargo bike, how much weight you are carrying and how much maintenance you want to do. So in this blog, we go over all the important configuration options with you.
Choosing an electric cargo bike: what motor types are there?
In fact, you have three main types of motors to choose from: a front wheel motor, rear wheel motor or center motor. Because each type of motor rides differently and has its own advantages.
A front-wheel motor sits in the front wheel and pulls your cargo bike forward. Therefore, this gives a natural feeling, as if someone is pulling you along. In addition, the weight of the front motor helps keep the cargo bike stable, especially if you are carrying a lot of weight. Front wheel motors are often cheaper to buy and maintain.
Rear-wheel motors push the cargo bike forward and thus give a sportier riding experience. Because they work well with gears and are economical at higher speeds. Just be aware that because the weight is in the back, steering can become more difficult when your cargo box is full.
Center motors sit near the bottom bracket and feel most natural. Because they give the best weight distribution and ideal balance - important in cargo bikes. In addition, these motors respond directly to your pedaling effort and give the feeling that you are just cycling, but with extra assistance. The STOER CargoX For example, uses a Bafang mid-motor with 92Nm of torque, specially designed for carrying heavy loads.
The power is usually between 250W and 500W. After all, for everyday use with children or shopping, 250W is often enough. Do you regularly drive with heavy loads or through hills? Then choose 350W or higher.
Why is a center motor often the best choice?
According to the Bicycle Association center motor is ideal for cargo bikes. Because the motor starts immediately as soon as you put pressure on the pedals. Therefore, you have support right from the start, which is crucial with a heavily loaded cargo bike.
Choosing an electric cargo bike: how much battery capacity?
Battery capacity runs from 400Wh to 1000Wh or more. Because your range depends on the weight in the box, the terrain and how you ride. That's why a 500Wh battery usually gives 40-80 kilometers of range.
Do you ride short distances to school or the supermarket? Then a 400-500Wh battery is usually sufficient. Because this gives you about 30-60 kilometers of range, depending on your assist mode and the weight you carry.
For longer distances or lots of hills, however, it's better to opt for 625Wh or more. Because these batteries give 50-100 kilometers of range and make sure you don't run out of power halfway through. The STOER CargoX, for example, has a 960Wh battery that gives 60-100 km of range, even with a heavy load.
In fact, the weight in the bin greatly affects your battery consumption. After all, two children plus groceries can increase consumption by 30-50%. Moreover, wind and hills also use more energy. Therefore, always factor in some reserve.
Modern batteries last 500-1000 charge cycles. So this means you can go for years with a good battery. In addition, some systems have replaceable batteries, so you can carry a spare battery for extra long rides.
How does winter affect your battery range?
In winter, your 20-30% loses range due to the cold. Therefore, store your battery indoors at temperatures above 10°C and only put it on the bike just before departure. Because then you use a lower assistance setting and pedal more yourself, especially when starting up. In addition, a battery cover can also help against extreme cold.
Which cargo space fits your family?
Bakfietsen offer different cargo spaces: namely, from compact bins for one child to large bins for several children plus luggage. Because standard bins are about 60-100cm long and 50-70cm wide, with a load capacity of 60-100kg.
Therefore, for families with young children, seats with seat belts are important. Because many bins have adjustable benches that grow with your children. Moreover, some systems offer modular seating solutions that you can adapt to changing needs.
Weather-resistant covers protect your cargo from rain and wind. So choose a cover system that is quick to set up and ventilates well. After all, some have windows so children can look outside during the ride.
Extra storage compartments under the seats or on the sides give more space for bags and belongings. So this is handy if you're running errands after dropping off kids. Also consider lockable compartments for valuables.
Example: the STOER CargoX configuration
The STOER CargoX namely has a 100×70 cm bin and offers space for 2-4 children. Because the maximum load capacity is 150 kg. Moreover, the bin is made of EPP material and completely recyclable. Therefore, you can choose from different accessories such as a safety bar with rain cover, Maxi-Cosi adapter and additional benches.
Why are more and more people choosing belt drives?
In fact, belt drive uses a strong carbon belt instead of a metal chain. Because this provides less maintenance, longer life and quieter riding. In addition, belts often last two to three times longer than chains and require no lubrication.
So the biggest advantage is the low maintenance. Because you do not need to lubricate the belt, it does not rust and collects less dirt. Therefore, this is ideal for daily use in all weather conditions. Moreover, the belt stays clean, which is convenient when you cycle in neat clothes.
In fact, belts are much quieter than chains. Because this makes riding more comfortable and less disturbing to passengers in the box. Therefore, the noise level is especially noticeable with electric assistance, where the motor is already quiet.
Moreover, the efficiency of belt drives is similar to a well-maintained chain, but remains constant for longer. After all, chains lose efficiency as they wear and get dirtier. Belts therefore maintain their efficiency throughout their life.
Disadvantages of belt drive
Belt drive does require a special frame with a public rear fork or linkable frame elements. Because this makes repairs on the road more difficult than with chains. In addition, replacement belts are more expensive than chains, although you don't have to replace them as often.
For cargo bikes, however, belt drive is often the better choice because of the intensive daily use. Because all STOER models use the Gates CDX belt drive for maximum reliability. Want to know more? Then read our blog on belt drive.
Choosing an electric cargo bike: two-wheeler or three-wheeler?
In fact, you have two main types of cargo bikes: two-wheelers (also called "Long John") and three-wheelers. Because both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Two-wheelers are therefore more agile, faster and take up less space. Because they are ideal if you navigate a lot through heavy city traffic. Moreover, you can easily pass through narrow streets and they cycle more pleasantly on bumpy road surfaces. The downside, however, is that it is difficult to get them on the stand when the bin is full.
However, tricycles offer more stability, especially when stationary. Because they are suitable for people who have less bicycle confidence or carry extra heavy loads. Therefore, you do not have to dismount at stoplights and the body is often larger. Note, however, that because they are less maneuverable in traffic and are wider, you take up more space on the bike path.
According to the ANWB cargo bike information it is important to test both types before choosing an electric cargo bike. Because the handling differs greatly.
What security features are important?
After all, safety is paramount when choosing an electric cargo bike, especially if you are transporting children. For look for 5-point safety belts for each child, stable sidewalls at least 30cm high and a low center of gravity for stability.
A good cover with side windows is therefore important for visibility and protection. Because also choose hydraulic disc brakes for reliable braking under heavy loads. The STOER CargoX, for example, has Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with integrated brake lights.
According to Central government an electric cargo bike must meet the same safety requirements as a normal bicycle. Because this means working lights, brakes and bell.
Additional security options
In fact, GPS tracking helps you find your cargo bike in case of theft. Because the STOER CargoX has GPS tracking built in as standard. Therefore, a PIN code immobilizer ensures that the bike will only start with the correct code, significantly reducing the risk of theft.
Turn signals are also useful in heavy traffic. Because the CargoX has integrated turn signals in the body and sides, just like a car. So this makes your intentions clear to other road users.
What are the actual maintenance costs?
Belt drive has lower annual maintenance costs due to the elimination of lubrication and less wear. A belt lasts 15,000-30,000 km versus 3,000-5,000 km for a chain. Although a replacement belt costs €80-150 (versus €15-30 for a chain), you save on labor and frequency of maintenance.
So basic maintenance like inflating tires, changing lights and cleaning can be done by yourself. For more complex issues such as engine settings, software updates and belt tension, you need specialist knowledge. Therefore, schedule an annual major service at an authorized dealer.
Warranty and insurance
In fact, STOER Bikes offers a 2-year warranty on battery, motor and all moving parts. For the CargoX, there is even a 5-year warranty on the frame. STOER also offers specially developed bicycle insurance with 3 years of new value coverage and no deductible for theft.
How to prevent breakdowns while driving?
However, modern electric cargo bikes are still normal bikes without power - you can always keep pedaling, even if it's heavier. Because make sure you have an emergency plan: know the locations of bike repair shops on your route, keep the number of a bike cab, and consider breakdown insurance.
In fact, some systems have a "limp home" mode with limited support in case of problems. This is why it is important to always check your battery level, tire pressure and brakes before long rides. In addition, carry a small repair kit with tire repair stuff and a bicycle pump.
Which electric cargo bike to choose for your situation?
In fact, the choice depends on your daily use. After all, for city dwellers taking children to school and running errands, a two-wheeler with a mid-motor and 500-700Wh battery is often the best choice. Therefore, do you live in a hilly area or regularly transport heavy loads? Then opt for a more powerful motor and larger battery.
The STOER CargoX is in fact specially designed for families and businesses that transport heavy loads daily. Because with its 960Wh battery, 92Nm of torque and Gates CDX belt drive, it is a reliable choice for intensive use. Moreover, the CargoX didn't win the German Design Award 2025 in the Excellent Product Design category for nothing.
Therefore, always test different configurations before you decide. Because book a test drive at a STOER dealer near you and experience for yourself the difference between the various motor types, battery capacities and drive systems.
Conclusion: choosing the right electric cargo bike
In fact, choosing an electric cargo bike requires careful consideration of several factors. After all, consider your daily distances, the weight you carry and how much maintenance you want to do. Therefore, proper configuration makes the difference between a bike that fits you perfectly and one that frustrates you after a while.
So invest time in comparing different options and test several models. Because the right electric cargo bike will make your daily life a lot easier and give you the freedom to move around town without a car. Whether you choose belt drive, a powerful mid-motor or a large battery - make sure your choice fits your specific situation.