Thanks to their clever design, cargo electric bikes appeal to families looking for a vehicle that is both practical and eco-friendly for transporting their children. But the question arises: how many children can fit in a cargo electric bike? Depending on the model and available options, the capacity can vary greatly. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the regulations governing the transport of children on cargo electric bikes and the models most suitable for families.
Transporting your children by cargo electric bikes: what the regulations say
Using a cargo electric bike to transport your children is both an ecological and practical idea, but it requires a good amount of thought. Indeed, you will need to do your research, especially regarding the rules in place to ensure the safety of your young passengers. Let's take a closer look at all of this!
The safety standards and the applicable legislation
To begin with, the regulations require cargo electric bikes to comply with the NF EN 15194 standard. This aims to ensure that the pedal assistance does not exceed the maximum speed of 25 km/h and that the motor power remains below 250W.
Next, in terms of safety, there are equipment that must be present on the cargo electric bike: lighting system, reflectors, horn, and mirror. And if the width of the bike exceeds 1 meter, it must be equipped with additional position lights to be clearly visible.
Finally, as an EDPM, the electric cargo bike is subject to the requirements of the Highway Code. They must therefore ride on bike paths when available and are strictly prohibited on sidewalks. They must also have specific insurance to cover any potential damages and accidents.
The types of cargo electric bikes and their capacity
Cargo electric bikes are available in several models, each offering a different load capacity.
The tricycle, with its three wheels and front box, is well-suited for large families. It can accommodate up to four children, or even eight in some more spacious models.
The biporteur, more compact with its two wheels and front box, can carry about three children. It is more maneuverable than the triporteur, but its load capacity is limited to 200 kg. It all depends on the size and configuration of the bike.
As for the longtail, it features an elongated frame that can accommodate two to three children in its rear compartment. This model combines agility and practicality, but requires a good weight distribution to ensure stable handling. And just like the biporteur, its maximum load is 200 kg.
How to ensure the safety of children on board an electric cargo bike?
To transport your children on an electric cargo bike, you should not only rely on the load capacity. The safety and comfort of the children must remain your priority. To achieve this, you need to equip yourself properly and follow our recommendations to ensure the protection of young passengers.
Essential safety equipment
Many devices exist to ensure the protection of your children on a cargo electric bike. First of all, there are three-point seat belts that provide optimal support and prevent sudden movements.
Then, the helmet, mandatory for those under 12 years old, must comply with the CE-EN 1078 standard, meaning it must fit the wearer's head and cover all parts of the head, starting from the forehead, passing through the temples, over the crown to the back part.
Child seats, usable from 9 months to 5 years, must be securely attached to the rear support of the bike to prevent any risk of tipping over. Finally, the safety bars provide additional security by allowing the child to hold on, reducing the risk of falling.
Best practices for transporting children on an electric cargo bike
Transporting children on an electric cargo bike requires good organization to maximize their comfort and safety throughout the journey. The first point to consider is weight distribution. The front and rear of the bike must be well balanced to avoid impacting stability and making it difficult to handle.
"Also make sure to adapt your driving to the situation. No sudden braking, and anticipate turns to ensure smooth driving in all circumstances. And I should tell you to maintain a moderate speed and to install your children in the cargo bike preferably with a double kickstand to avoid any tipping."
The electric cargo bike: comfort and safety according to your children's age
A tiny passenger or a slightly older child, each age group has its specific needs in terms of safety, comfort, and practicality. Here’s what you need to know to choose the perfect model based on the age of your little explorers!
For the little ones: When comfort and safety take precedence!
From a young age, safety is the number one priority. If you want to transport a 9-month-old baby, some cargo bike models are equipped with special child seats designed for infants. These seats are often adjustable and well-padded to provide maximum comfort.
They must be installed in the front or in a secure compartment with three-point seat belts, which allow the child to be safely secured, even during slightly bumpier rides.
For children up to 5 years old, you will find ergonomic and well-protected seats, with reinforced sides to prevent any risk of tipping over. These seats are designed to be installed at the front of the bike or at the back, depending on the chosen cargo bike model. The important thing is to ensure that the bike is stable, with a low center of gravity to avoid any tipping, and that the child is securely fastened.
For children aged 3 to 7: More space and freedom
From the age of 3, your children will need more space to be comfortably seated. This is when models like the tricycle or longtail show their full potential. These cargo bikes often offer a more spacious platform at the front or back, where children can sit side by side, enjoy the scenery, and move a little more freely.
The rear seats can be equipped with support bars, adjustable footrests, and reinforced seat belts to provide both comfort and safety. Cargo bikes with front and rear suspensions will be particularly appreciated for absorbing road irregularities and ensuring pleasant rides, even on less smooth surfaces.
For children aged 7 to 12 years: autonomy and comfort
As your children grow and are able to settle more independently, their comfort and safety are still essential, but their needs change. At this age, more compact models like the double stroller can be suitable, while still providing enough space for two children or a larger child.
Cargo electric bikes in this range are often equipped with sturdier seats and harnesses, allowing for the transport of older children while maintaining optimal stability. They are also models that allow for the installation of a small basket or other practical accessories to make trips even more enjoyable and entertaining for children.
The selection criteria for a family cargo electric bike
For a cargo electric bike, the range is a crucial element that will definitely influence your decision. Its value varies depending on the battery and generally ranges between 50 and 100 km. The motor is also very important. If you need to travel on bumpy roads quite regularly, we can only recommend a minimum power of 60 Nm, or even 80 Nm, to arrive safely at your destination.
For a smooth ride, choose a model with a well-balanced frame, preferably equipped with a low center of gravity and a start assist that enhances maneuverability, especially for beginners.
Finally, there is the question of the budget. Cargo electric bikes cost on average between €1,000 and €5,000, or even more if you are aiming for high-end models. To help you acquire your new vehicle, subsidies are available in certain regions and municipalities. Check with the authorities to benefit from them.
FAQ
Are electric cargo bikes easy to maneuver?
It depends on the model. The tricycles, with their three wheels, offer great stability but can be a bit less maneuverable in tight spaces. The bicycles and longtails are more agile thanks to their two wheels, but require a bit more experience to manage weight distribution well, especially when loaded with children.
Are electric cargo bikes suitable for daily use?
Absolutely! Electric cargo bikes are designed for everyday use, whether it's to take the kids to school, do some shopping, or even for longer trips. With their electric assistance, they allow for the transport of heavy loads with ease, making them ideal for daily commuting in the city.
Can a child be transported in a cargo bike safely during long trips?
Yes, as long as the safety equipment is well chosen and used correctly. It is important to choose a seat suitable for the child's age, with seat belts and good support. For long journeys, it is also advisable to take regular breaks to ensure that the child is always comfortable and that the driving remains stable.
Are electric cargo bikes more expensive than a regular bike?
Yes, electric cargo bikes are generally more expensive than traditional bikes due to the motor, battery, and reinforced structure needed to support heavy loads. However, the investment can be recouped in the long term through savings on fuel, parking, and car maintenance.
Conclusion
Electric cargo bikes are an efficient and sustainable solution for facilitating family travel in the city. Depending on the chosen model, they allow you to transport several children while ensuring a comfortable and safe ride.
To discover a selection of models perfectly suited for families, check out the range of electric cargo bikes available at the Weebot store.