As the world begins shifting towards more planet-friendly ways of life, families around the globe are deciding to choose a longtail bike over more traditional forms of transportation. Deciding to purchase a longtail bicycle opens an entirely new world of opportunities for any family. That’s why choosing the right type of cargo bike is vital to maximize the investment and include a fun, new way to get from point A to point B.
Adding a longtail bike to the family will add more than fun adventures during free time. Long bikes can carry children and cargo places that a traditional bicycle could never imagine. Some models’ features and abilities allow families to easily replace a second car or family vehicle with an affordable, green option. These powerful bicycles can safely run errands like grocery shopping, shuffle children to and from school, travel to and from extracurricular activities with a kid, spend extra family time together, go on fun-filled learning adventures, explore nature and local parks, etc. And since the electric motor assists the pedals, the rider can choose how much physical help they want to get from place to place. That means someone can go longer distances with heavier loads and not wear themselves out before they get home.
Features to Consider for Family Long Bikes
With all the cargo biking options and features that are available today, it can make finding the right bike without help seems overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are four factors to consider when choosing a longtail bike:
● Sized & Load Capacity
Every longtail bicycle will have payload capacities and frame sizes that vary depending on manufacture and model type. The size and load capacity required for an electric longtail bike will depend on various factors. Some bicycle types may only hold a few hundred pounds, while others can go up to 450 lbs. Different frame sizes are better for people of different heights. Before purchasing a new longtail bicycle, measuring the people in the family who will be driving the bike and discussing it with a retailer or checking the manufacturer’s recommendations for height and weight limits is recommended.
● Battery Capacity
The battery range for a longtail bike ride is typically between 20-60 miles for a single charge, while some can go up to 140 miles. This range estimation can vary depending on the type of terrain and how long the rider uses full motor power. Spare batteries are available for extra-long rides, and keeping an extra handy is recommended for any family adventure. Charging a longtail bicycle battery to full strength takes multiple hours, so charging time is another thing to consider when deciding which bike type and how many extra batteries to purchase.
● Comfort & Safety
When a family plans to purchase a longtail bike for the home, it is crucial to select a model that provides safety and comfort for everyone who will be riding. Different makes and models come with various seat options and extra seating configurations for safety guidelines. These guidelines are created to keep riders of different sizes, weights, or ages safe and comfortable. As with any form of family transportation, the most important thing is safety first.
● Construction/Design
A longtail bicycle is a cargo bike with two wheels with an elongated rear area with a rack. The extended area is optimized to carry heavy loads of cargo or around 2-3 children, depending on the model. These bikes are made with a narrow frame to allow for easy navigation, making them an ideal choice for parents since it’s easy to complete daily errands with child passengers. Depending on the type of longtail bike, there are a variety of accessories to make life easier for any rider, like child seats, captain’s seats, additional batteries, saddle seats, rear baskets, guardrails, foot guards, and more.
Research the Right Longtail Bike
Deciding which bike options will fit a family’s daily needs should be narrowed down after deciding on the above options. It’s essential to take the time to research which choices will make day-to-day life more fun, affordable, and straightforward. There’s something about making memories on long bikes that allows for a deeper connection than simply driving somewhere in a car. Both children and parents will fall in love with the new way of life once the right bicycle type becomes a part of the home.
Every family is different, which means every family’s longtail bike needs will vary. Since long cargo bikes are a transportation option built to last throughout the years, purchasing one is an investment that will affect day-to-day life for the foreseeable future. As with any long-term investment, it is essential to research the bike types that fit each family’s wants and needs. Few things can compare to finding the perfect longtail bike that changes how a family travels, works, and plays for the better.
