Not at all. Most cargo e-Bikes are designed with a low center of gravity and powerful motors, making them surprisingly stable and easy to handle, even when carrying kids, groceries, or gear.
Electric vs Non-Electric Cargo Bikes: Which One Should You Buy?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | July 23, 2025 | Time to read 5 min
Is a motor worth the money, or can your legs handle the load? Here’s how to decide between electric and non-electric cargo bikes.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
Before electric cargo bikes burst onto the scene, there were cargo bikes powered entirely by their haulers’ legs. Remember those? Bullitt bikes, bakfiets, long-tail models, and all the wacky cargo bikes have been carrying stuff— and lots of it— for a while, and cargo e-Bikes are the latest addition to the fleet. But should you go electric or stay acoustic? Here are my thoughts on electric vs. non-electric cargo bikes and situations where each type shows its strengths.
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Table of Contents
The price vs. pedal-assistance trade-off
Some people are determined to stick to old-school riding and human power, and they deserve our respect, especially if they’re hauling heavy cargo around. But assuming you are at least open to riding an electric cargo bike, how do you make the right choice?
For me, it boils down to whether the pedal-assistance is worth the jump in price that comes with electric bikes. Cargo bikes— both electric and non-motorized— can be expensive since they are so much larger and fully loaded with accessories and heavy-duty components compared to other types of bikes. In our catalog, premium cargo e-Bikes are some of our most pricey models, even with the big savings on Upway.
Things like big hills on your route or the weight of the cargo can influence how much of a difference riding with a motor will make. Consider the tips below to find out whether you’re best off with an amplified cargo bike or can cruise on a non-electric model.
Got hills? A cargo e-Bike is your best friend
Hills can be hard on any bike, and they’re even more grueling on a cargo bike. Cargo bikes are heavy even without any added cargo or extra passengers, so piling on the weight will make the climbs a lot tougher if you don’t have a motor. I’ve heard cargo riders tell me that small hills they never noticed before on rides with other bikes seem like mountains on a loaded cargo bike.
If the area you ride in is decently hilly, I recommend opting for an electric cargo bike. You won’t have to play any games of trying to limit the cargo or choose flatter routes— simply load up, get rolling, and enjoy that helpful boost. And don’t worry about missing out on exercise— studies show that electric bikes still provide moderate to strenuous physical activity!
Consider how much weight you're carrying
Are you a pack mule or a light packer? The amount of weight you’ll be carrying on your cargo bike will determine how much of a difference a motor will make. For riders planning on transporting plenty of cargo or a couple of kids, you’ll likely want the assistance of a motor to help make the ride easier. You’ll travel faster, accelerate with ease, and struggle less up the hills.
If your cargo needs are more moderate, you can probably ride a non-electric cargo bike without issue. Some riders need the cargo space but aren’t actually carrying super heavy stuff, or limit their passengers to just one.
Flat city? Non-electric can be great
Cargo bikes thrive in flat cities, zooming through the streets as fast (or faster) than cars and with almost the same amount of room for stuff! Flat cities like Chicago are great for non-motorized cargo bikes, whether you’re a bike messenger, daily commuter, or parent taking your kids to school. The flat terrain means there aren’t any hills in your way, and you can use your momentum to ride without much more effort than a standard city bike.
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Keeping up with traffic can be safer
Electric bikes can provide speed when you need it and let you cruise at a slower pace at other times. This versatility can be a huge help, and the ability to travel faster than you would by pedaling without a motor can keep you safer, too.
Riders on the street feel safer when they can match the speed of car traffic— this way, they are more visible to drivers and can better navigate road situations. Cars are also less likely to overtake you when you are traveling at a similar speed, and as we all know, cars often don’t give cyclists enough space when passing. Class 3 e-Bikes can travel up to 28 mph with pedal assistance.
Traffic safety principles agree that reducing the relative speed difference between vehicles is key to promoting safety and limiting traffic incidents. If you frequently share the road with faster cars, consider riding an electric cargo bike where you can better control your speed and travel faster when necessary.
Heat can also make a difference
Electric cargo bikes let you ride with less effort when you want, which can be a big plus in hot weather. The extra work required to pull along a cargo bike can easily turn into a sweat-drenched affair, but the addition of a motor can keep you active without overdoing it. In this way, cargo e-Bikes can encourage you to stay riding all year round and brave the summer heat!
You’ll ride more & replace car trips with a cargo e-Bike
Studies show that riding an electric bike will, on average, cause you to ride more often and cover longer distances. The added boost and fun factor encourage you to get out and ride, and that’s what cycling is all about.
Plus, the extra strength of a cargo e-Bike means it’s a more suitable car replacement. If you’re thinking about ditching your car, an electric cargo bike is an excellent alternative that’s way more fun and much better for the environment, too. You can choose between long-tail cargo bikes and front-loading models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cargo e-Bikes hard to ride, especially when fully loaded?
What’s the difference between a cargo e-Bike and a regular e-Bike?
Cargo e-Bikes are built to carry extra weight and volume, featuring reinforced frames, extended racks, and space for child seats or large baskets. Regular e-Bikes are typically designed for commuting or personal transport with less cargo capacity.
Can I use a cargo e-Bike year-round?
Yes! With proper accessories like rain covers, all-weather tires, and lights, cargo e-Bikes can be reliable in all seasons. Many riders use them year-round for school drop-offs, errands, and commuting.
Key Takeaways
- Terrain matters: Electric cargo bikes are ideal for hilly routes, while flat cities are perfect for non-electric models.
- Weight makes a difference: The more cargo or passengers you carry, the more you’ll benefit from pedal-assist.
- Electric = more trips: E-cargo bikes encourage more frequent rides, are safer in traffic, and are better suited for replacing car trips.
