Gazelle Cabby C380: (almost) anything can go in the back
The Gazelle Cabby is the kind of bike you almost find yourself defending. Because it excels so much in the "not quite a cargo bike" segment: large load capacity, incredibly powerful motor, limited maintenance, while retaining the feeling of "just riding an e-bike."
But when it comes to children, I become a little less romantic.
Written by: Jos Mans | February 25, 2026 | Reading time: 5minutes
About the author: Jos Mans
Jos is a writer and cyclist, most often both at the same time. With thousands of miles under his belt and just as many words on paper, he combines his two great passions: being on the move and telling stories.
Key findings
- This isn't just a sturdy e-bike, it's a real workhorse. The Bosch Performance Line CX (Smart System) with 85 Nm is the type of motor normally found one-MTBs and heavy cargo bikes. You can feel it immediately: this bike is designed to be loaded up, not to look good at traffic lights.
- The Cabby only makes sense if load capacity is important to you. Maximum allowable weight: 200 kg. Rear luggage rack up to 80 kg. These are serious figures, and that's precisely why this model exists.
- With children, I would still often consider an Urban Arrow. Not because the Cabby is "dangerous," but because a cargo bike with a low box offers a lower center of gravity and a different feeling of stability. Urban Arrow highlights this low center of gravity as a key advantage for control and stability, and this corresponds well with what you feel in practice with two children on board and a sudden correction to make.
Specifications at a glance
| Element | Gazelle Cabby C380 |
|---|---|
| Type | Longtail with extended rear rack + front rack |
| Engine | Bosch Performance Line CX Smart System (max. 85 Nm) |
| Screen / control | Bosch Kiox 300 + LED Remote |
| Battery options | 400 / 545 / 800 Wh |
| Transmission | Gates belt (often referred to as CDX by retailers) |
| Speeds | Continuously variable Enviolo (often Heavy Duty version) |
| Maximum total weight. | 200 kg |
| Rear luggage rack | Up to 80 kg |
| Weight of the bicycle | Approx. 32.3 kg (without battery) |
| Extra | Gazelle Connect / GPS (depending on version/activation) |
Road handling (unloaded vs. loaded)
On its own, the Cabby rides surprisingly "normally." That's its main selling point: you don't have to immediately ride around town with the width of a cargo bike.
But the real story begins when you load it.
You then notice two things:
- The motor masks the weight. Starting off with a full load doesn't feel like a chore. The CX motor isn't just a nice-to-have feature, it's functional: it prevents the bike from becoming a heavy, sluggish machine.
- When loaded, the Cabby is less direct than a conventional bike. In tight turns, when parking, or in the event of sudden corrections, this is immediately noticeable: you need a little more space and a little more time to adjust.
Gazelle insists that you can "park it just like a conventional e-bike," thanks in particular to its sturdy kickstand. And that's true, until you load it up with two bags, a child, and an extra lock. Not to mention yourself.
Transporting children: where the problem lies
Let's be clear: I find the Cabby more credible as a workhorse (runs, dog, equipment) than as the " ultimate family bike."
Of course, Gazelle designs it with accessories and high load capacities in mind. But with children, it's not just a question of "does it fit?"—it's about feeling stable. And that's often where a cargo bike like the Urban Arrow has the advantage, because the weight is low and centered in the box.
- Got a child, short journeys, and don't want a cargo bike? The Cabby could be an excellent compromise.
- Two or more children, often loaded up and want peace of mind when riding? I would look towards an Urban Arrow a Cube Cargo as a starting point.
Who is this the right choice for?
The Cabby is best suited for people who:
- want to transport a lot of weight without having to store a cargo bike;
- want to minimize maintenance (belt + continuously variable transmission = classic "I want to drive, not tinker" combo);
- are looking for a longtail with high-quality components and a solid base (Bosch Smart System, high load capacities);
- want to transport a child (but ideally no more than one).
FAQ
Is the Gazelle Cabby an alternative to a cargo bike?
Partially. In terms of load capacity, it comes close, but when it comes to feeling stable with children, a cargo bike is often more reassuring.
What weight is allowed?
Gazelle and Bosch indicate a total permissible weight of 200 kg.
Can you really transport two children in the back?
Gazelle explicitly positions it as capable of carrying "two children easily" (with accessories). Actual comfort will depend on the length of the trips, the age of the children, and your ease with the behavior of a longtail bike.
Which battery should you choose (400 / 545 / 800 Wh)?
- 400 Wh: mainly for city use and short trips.
- 545 Wh: the safe compromise.
- 800 Wh: for long distances or heavy loads (but also heavier weight and higher price).
Is this e-bike easy to maintain?
Yes, thanks in particular to the belt and the Enviolo system (less lubrication and adjustments than a chain with derailleur).
What is Gazelle Connect on this bike?
Gazelle combines Cabby with Connect/GPS features (location tracking/alerts) and specifically mentions one year of service or theft insurance in its offer. Always check the terms and conditions and any subscriptions after the first year.