Which cargo bike fits through a door?

When buying a cargo bike, passage through doors is often a practical issue that concerns many people. Most two-wheeled cargo bikes with a width between 65-75 cm fit through a standard Dutch door of 85-90 cm. For tricycles, which are usually wider (85-95 cm), this can be more challenging. Compact models such as some of our narrowest variants offer a solution when indoor storage is necessary.

1. Which cargo bike fits through a door?
2. What are the standard dimensions of a cargo bike?
3. How do I measure if my cargo bike will fit through my door?
4. What are the narrowest cargo bikes on the market?
5. Can I make modifications to my cargo bike to fit through the door?
6. What are alternatives if my cargo bike won't fit through the door?
7. Is there a difference between electric and non-electric cargo bikes in terms of passage width?
8. Bakfiets purchase: what to look for in terms of dimensions?

A standard doorway in Dutch homes has a width of about 85-90 centimeters. Most two-wheeled cargo bikes are narrow enough to fit through this, as their average width is between 65-75 centimeters. The situation is different with tricycles - they are usually wider and can cause problems with passage.

Among the models that fit well through a standard door, you'll find several compact and smart designs. For example, our CargoX in the two-wheeled version has a width of 68 centimeters, so it fits perfectly through most interior doors. This makes the model particularly suitable for those who want to store the cargo bike inside, such as in a hallway or utility room.

Be sure to take into account not only the width, but also handlebars and pedals that sometimes protrude beyond the basic dimensions, and of course the height of the doorway.

Cargo bikes vary quite a bit in their dimensions, depending on the type and model. Here is an overview of average sizes:
Cargo bike type - Width - Length - Height Two-wheeler - 65-75 cm - 180-220 cm - 90-110 cm Tricycle - 85-95 cm - 175-210 cm - 90-110 cm

Most standard interior doors in the Netherlands have a width of 85-90 cm and a height of about 230 cm. This means that two-wheeled models are usually not a problem in terms of width, while three-wheeled models are often just too wide for a standard doorway.

In terms of length, all cargo bikes can present challenges when maneuvering through doors, especially in narrow hallways with little turning radius. Therefore, the overall length of a cargo bike is also an important consideration in determining whether it will fit in your home.

To be sure your (future) cargo bike will fit through your door, follow these steps:

• Measure the doorway: Measure the width at the narrowest point, usually between the frames
• Measure the cargo bike width: Measure the cargo bike at its widest point, including protruding parts
• Check handlebar width: The handlebar is often one of the widest points
• Keep in mind pedals: In some positions pedals protrude
• Consider the turning radius: You need room to maneuver

Note: Don't forget to also check the height of both the door and the cargo bike. Some cargo bikes have high handlebars or hoods that can cause problems when passing the door.

The critical points are usually the handlebars (which are often wider than the body itself) and any accessories such as mirrors, panniers or a rain hood. In some cases, you can temporarily rotate the handlebars to create a narrower passage.

For those who absolutely want to store the cargo bike inside, there are several compact models available. The narrowest cargo bikes on the market are almost all of the two-wheeled type and have a width between 65-70 cm.
Some of the narrowest models are:

• Our CargoX In the compact version: 68 cm wide
• Urban Arrow Shorty: approximately 65 cm wide
• Babboe Mini: approximately 65 cm wide
• Bakfiets.nl Cargo Bike Short: approximately 68 cm wide

These compact models offer less cargo space than their larger counterparts, but are perfect for those who need to regularly store a cargo bike indoors. The narrower cargo box does mean you may be able to carry fewer children or luggage, so consider your priorities carefully.

If your existing cargo bike just won't fit through the door, there are some modifications available:

• Removable handlebars: Some cargo bikes have a quick-release mechanism that allows you to remove or rotate the handlebars
• Collapsible mirrors: Replace fixed mirrors with collapsible versions
• Removable accessories: temporarily remove panniers, child seats or other accessories
• Air out of tires: For a few inches of gain, you can (temporarily) let some air out of the tires

Some models also allow you to (partially) disassemble the cargo box, although this is often a laborious process not intended for everyday use. When buying a new cargo bike, be sure to consider a model that already naturally fits through your doorway, rather than counting on modifications.

If indoor storage is not an option, consider these alternatives:

Secure outdoor storage is possible with the right precautions. First of all, a robust lock (or preferably several different locks) is essential. Preferably choose an ART-approved chain lock and a good ring lock from, for example ABUS. In addition, anchor your cargo bike to a fixed object such as a bike rack or anchored ground anchor.

A protective canopy protects against weather conditions. Special cargo bike covers are available that cover the entire vehicle. For those with more space, there are also prefabricated cargo bike garages or bike racks that you can place in the garden or driveway.

Some apartment complexes have communal bike racks large enough for cargo bikes. Check the options in your complex or ask the VvE about solutions.

Basically, there are no significant width differences between electric and non-electric variants of the same cargo bike model. The electric components such as the motor and battery add hardly any width to the frame.
There are some concerns with electric models, though:

• The battery is often incorporated into the rack or frame and does not affect the width
• Electric cargo bikes are on average 3-5 kg heavier, which can make maneuvering through doors a bit more difficult
• Some display consoles on the handlebars may protrude slightly wider

The biggest difference is not in width but in weight and maneuverability. An electric cargo bike is heavier, which makes lifting over a threshold and maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging. Motor assistance works only while riding, not while stalling.

When choosing a cargo bike with passage through doors as a priority, pay attention:

• Measure accurately beforehand: Both your doorway and intended stall space
• Consider the turning radius: You need room to maneuver, not just the width of the door is important
• Consider two-wheelers: These are almost always narrower than tricycles
• Look for compact models: There are special city models that are optimal for smaller spaces
• Note the handlebars: This is often the widest part

Many people underestimate the importance of appropriate dimensions when purchasing. What fits on paper may still cause problems in practice due to protruding parts or limited maneuvering space. Ideally, visit a showroom to see the model of your choice in real life before making a decision.
When in doubt, we recommend opting for a slightly more compact model. The daily peace of mind of trouble-free storage usually outweighs the sporadic inconvenience of slightly less cargo space.