I went specifically to look at cargo bikes as a step up from my trailer pram. Whilst the front loading box cargo bikes (like the Urban Arrow) look fun, I think they’re better suited to moving things than people. The rear loading cargo bikes (like Tern) are better for moving people, but you need different configurations to move stuff.

I’ve been looking at ebikes for a while, done a bunch of research, and been to a few events like this one. I think it’s best to think of an ebike like a second car and budget accordingly. A lot of people who get an ebike end up using it like a second car anyway, so it’s worth getting a good one up front.

Things to look at when considering an ebike are: -Good brakes. An ebike is heavier than a normal bike and you’ll be going faster -Big tyres. To also deal with the added weight and speed -Strong drivetrain. The chains and gears on cheap ebikes can wear out faster because they use regular bike components instead of ebike specific components -Good electronic components. Most good ebikes use a Bosch mid-drive motor and you can get displays for them that have GPS and other features. Bosch have a service centre here in Melbourne and generally good support for their products after release. There are other good motor brands but you’ll have to do your research on anything not Bosch.

Most ebikes are used for commuting, so there are things to consider there that are consistent for any bike: -Comfortable riding position. You don’t need a sporty ebike unless you want one. You can get away with a more upright seating position and swept back handlebars on an ebike because it does most of the work for you -The right sized frame for you. Unless a bike is super adjustable you’ll need to get measured somewhat and make sure the frame fits you -Mudguards. This is one of the most important things for commuting bikes overall. Get a bike with mudguards if you can, otherwise make sure you can put them on whatever bike you get.

You can generally trust an ebike from any established normal bike brand. There are a few smaller brands that either only do ebikes or are known for them that are also good. Most of the brands at the expo are good as well, and I’d trust a bike from them. Here’s a link to the page about the expo to give you a place to start:

bicyclenetwork.com.au/…/e-bike-expo/