Family choice: cargo bike or longtail bike

Cargo bikes and longtails increase the transport capacity of bicycles in cities and are therefore a sustainable alternative to cars. They allow children and bulky or heavy items to be transported safely, offer a fast and agile solution in heavy traffic without parking problems, take up relatively little space (especially longtails), and reduce dependence on motorized vehicles.

The cargo bike (or front-loader) is the classic choice for those looking for maximum cargo capacity. On this type of bike, the load—whether children, dogs, or crates of drinks—is located in front of the rider.

The advantage is that you can always keep an eye on your children. This is particularly useful with a baby in a Maxi-Cosi adapter or with toddlers who like to chat during the ride. Models such as the Gazelle Cabby or Urban Arrow can often carry two to four children, who stay dry and sheltered from the wind thanks to a rain cover.

The main advantage of cargo bikes, their load capacity, is also their main disadvantage. Their size makes them large and heavy, which can make maneuvering difficult in narrow streets or busy city centers. You also need to allow for a fairly large parking space.

The longtail looks like a conventional electric bike, but with an extended rear section. Children sit behind the rider on an extended luggage rack. Since the wheelbase remains similar to that of a standard bike, riding a longtail feels more natural and agile. The riding experience benefits from its compactness: a longtail, such as the Tern GSD, takes up little more space than a conventional bike and can often be transported on a standard bike rack. Longtails are also better suited to older children (up to around 10 years old or older) who can simply sit in the back.

The main disadvantage is that you cannot see what is happening behind you. Passengers are also more exposed to the elements, although some models offer small shelters.

The choice depends mainly on your environment and the age of your children.

In a densely populated city with narrow bike lanes, the longtail bike is gaining popularity thanks to its flexibility. If you live in a quiet suburb and need to transport large groceries and three young children every week, the cargo bike remains unbeatable in terms of volume.

Another crucial aspect is the length of use. A cargo bike is often resold when children outgrow the box (usually around 6-7 years old). A longtail remains useful long after that, as a sturdy utility bike for many years to come.

Premium e-bikes often retain between 40% and 48% of their original value after three years, if they are well maintained. For some iconic cargo bike brands, this percentage can even be higher due to constant demand. Electric longtails also retain a good resale value, as demand for sturdy models equipped with modern technology is high. In both cases, the condition of the battery remains the determining factor for the price.

Used cargo bikes are generally sturdy, but you should check the wear and tear on the box and steering system.Urban Arrow is a benchmark in the used market. A 3- to 4-year-old model with a Bosch Performance Line motor is highly sought after. Its new price new at around €6,000, but depending on the mileage and condition of the battery, you can find this type of bike for between €3,000 and €4,000 used.

An even more affordable option is the Babboe City-E or Curve-E. These models are widely available on the second-hand market thanks to their popularity in recent years. New, they cost between €3,500 and €4,500. Second-hand, they can often be found for between €1,500 and €2,500.

Longtails are relatively newer to the market, which means that the selection of used models is somewhat more limited, but the technology is often more modern. The Tern GSD (S10 or S00) is considered the benchmark among longtails. These models retain their value very well thanks to the many modular accessories that are often included. New Tern longtails cost around €5,500 to €6,000, while a well-maintained second-hand model usually sells for between €3,500 and €4,500.

With the Decathlon R500E, you have a highly competitive model that has shaken up the market. It is ideal for those looking for an affordable entry-level bike. new, it costs around €2,900, and can regularly be found second-hand for between €1,800 and €2,200.

When choosing between a cargo bike and a longtail, opt for the cargo bike if you have babies or very young children, if you want to protect them from the rain, and if you have enough space to park the bike safely indoors.

Longtail bikes are generally more suitable if you live in an apartment, if your children are older, or if you also want to use the bike for long recreational rides where maneuverability is important.

Its large carrying capacity and the ability to transport young children safely while keeping an eye on them.

Because it is more compact and easier to handle on narrow, busy bike paths.

When you need to transport several young children and a lot of luggage, and you have sufficient storage space.