After approximately 15 miles of riding on this setting, I lost another bar. Urban Arrow incorporates a small plastic pad that presses directly on to the front of the fork steerer tube to damp oscillations. Throttle lovers will need to skip this one, though thats par for the course with European electric bikes. 
Theres 250 W of sustained power driving the 26 rear wheel (current Urban Arrow models now get updated Bosch motor units), all fed by a single 500 W-h lithium-ion Bosch PowerPack 500 battery. There are no issues at lower speeds, but let me tell you, if you dont have the steerer damper adjusted properly and this beast of a bike starts violently shaking side to side at 30 km/h (with your kid in the box, no less), it sure wakes you up in a hurry. Micah Toll is a personal electric vehicle enthusiast, battery nerd, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling books DIY Lithium Batteries, DIY Solar Power,The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guideand The Electric Bike Manifesto.
Proper cycling infrastructure like safe biking paths is sorely missing in many (most?) I love how you can stand on the end of the kickstand leg to get it to engage, but Urban Arrow doesnt plug the tube before installing the rubber feet, and it doesnt take long before it punches through the end (Ive since replaced one foot with a new one, but installed a handlebar plug first). But its also a legitimate game-changer in terms of what it allows you to do by bike, and without question, its the best bike Ive ever owned in terms of how its affected my day-to-day life. As good as this bike is in so many respects, its absolutely unforgivable that this problem is allowed to exist. Its not bad in dry conditions, but it can be very sketchy when its slippery. Those were the words cheerily directed my way as I dropped my kiddo off at school one morning. Ive now spent more than two years with the Urban Arrow Family, and I agree wholeheartedly that it is mega cool.
When that happens on milder corners, theres just a bit of steering correction required. Aside from that, its been pennies in recharge costs, and of course, no other fees typically associated with automobiles like registration and insurance. Another feature on the commercial version of the Urban Arrow thats missing here is front suspension. You can stow up to 275 pounds in the cargo area. The choice may be clear, but it doesnt do the price tag any favors. Im now running extra-thick butyl tubes. If youre looking for an e-cargo bike to safely haul around your kids, you cant do much better than the Urban Arrow Family Cargo. Prices for accessories range from around $10 up to $470, with most key accessories falling into the $230 range. Helping move this unwieldy monster is a Bosch Performance CX mid-drive motor with four assist levels and up to 75 Nm of torque. Ive ridden a lot of incredible high-end bikes over the years, and here in Boulder, Colorado, not a lot of fancy hardware goes unnoticed. I rode from home to the start of the climb at the base of Flagstaff Mountain here in Boulder, and escorted the crew all the way up to the top (the real top, mind you, not the halfway point that many locals consider to be the top). Just like human family members, this Urban Arrow Family has its pros, cons, quirks, and things that drive me crazy. The Urban Arrow is no rocket ship, but the e-assist motor is impressively torquey and responds instantly to pedaling inputs to help mask the substantial mass. There are rain covers, baby seat adapters, extra benches to accommodate more kid passengers, a rear rack, and more.
The foam is quite thick and would therefore take a large impact to truly damage the foam to the point that replacement would be necessary. Granted, such a thing would be tricky for Urban Arrow to tune given the huge variation in loads and wacky weight distribution, but Id like to see the company figure something out here. Need more juice? Supplying that motor is a Bosch 500Wh battery, which should offer some decent range considering the bike is pedal assist only. The Family Cargo can be configured on Urban Arrows website, which offers a host of accessories. I then rode the bike back down and then clear across town to pick up my kid from school. When you hit larger bumps, the rear of the bike feels almost spring-loaded. Its a good thing this step-through frame has such a low standover height, because I guarantee any Urban Arrow owner spends a decent amount of time straddling this thing as they slowly roll it back and forth in a multi-point turn. Many other parents can attest to how difficult it can sometimes be to get your kids into the car, but my kid never objects to getting into the bucket bike.. Even with my 7-year-old daughter riding up front, the ride quality and ease of use didnt seem to change much from an unloaded configuration. According to Urban Arrow, the seat within the cargo area positions your kiddos lower, which serves two purposes. The true wattage is almost certainly higher. By the time we got home, Id covered more than 34 km (21 miles) and 850 m (2,800 ft) of elevation gain, and still had about 10% of battery life remaining. That said, everything else about the Family Cargo feels well-refined. Regardless, the Urban Arrow has become my everyday mode of transportation in town. Max number of passengers: 4 On bikes like this, there are two commonly accepted solutions for connecting the steering column to the front fork: a set of cables and housings (like what Yuba uses on its Electric Supermarch), or a rigid linkage. Just turn the shifter until you find the right resistance for you. low-cost long tail electric cargo e-bikes. Just, uh maybe dont try that on a turn. Perfect for maneuvering this thing fully loaded up my modestly sloped driveway . Once its all configured, Urban Arrow provides a dealer locator button so you can find the dealer nearest you. Heaven forbid something fails in that linkage rod or the bell crank arm on the underside of the steerer tube, or the little tab thats welded to the fork blade as itd undoubtedly result in a nasty crash. As unusual as the Urban Arrow might look, its actually not that uncommon at all. The ones on newer Urban Arrows are thankfully brighter, but I appreciate theyre there, and its nice that theyre hardwired into the main Bosch battery (again, not something exclusive to Urban Arrow, but good to see regardless). Riding it is a pleasure, and despite its nearly 9-foot length and stout 100-pound weight, it feels fairly lithe for a cargo bike. Its a top choice for parents in need of a transportation solution for the kids. Despite the wide range of cargo sizes and weights, the Urban Arrow has taken it all in stride. In addition to VeloNews, his work has appeared in Triathlete Magazine, Rouleur Magazine, CyclingTips.com, Road Bike Action, Mountain Bike Action, CycleVolta.com, Tomsguide.com, and much more. While at times it felt too bouncy, I prefer this over an overly jarring ride quality. Nearly everywhere you look on the Urban Arrow, there are small touches indicating the brands long history in the category. You can buy the Urban Arrow Family Cargo at select bike shops. For massive loads, the three-wheeled Tender would do the trick. They fall into a class of cargo bikes called bakfiets, or box bike in Dutch. I served as a taxi driver for associate editor Abby Mickey one day when she needed to get somewhere downtown, and for Beta contributor Kristin Butcher, whod broken her ankle and needed to get home from a physical therapy appointment. The 20-diameter front wheel is placed way out in front of the cargo box, and theres a long linkage connecting the steering column to the fork. Fear not though, because electric cargo bikes solve that issue beautifully. After all, thats where the main bench is located, and if the rain cover is installed, those front cutouts are useless since the cover opens at the rear. Read the rest of our Urban Arrow Family review to see if its one of the best electric bikes for you and your children. However, the twist shifters dual cable arrangement feels vague, and if youre running the Bosch motor at one of the higher assist settings, its very difficult to shift gears while pedaling unless you really back off the power.
The lights? Immensely useful, heaps of thoughtful details, and plenty of smart accessories make this my favorite bike Ive ever owned. Perhaps related to that linkage flex is the bikes well documented speed wobble issue. I brought this bike in for review way back in late November 2019, and I wasted little time putting it through its paces. I should mention that it didnt take long for me to decide that this bike wasnt just going to be a long-term loaner. The cutouts at the front corners of the box are a nice touch as they provide a handy foothold that make it easier for smaller passengers to get in and out. Often overlooked, the kickstand design is superb. Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, They put your wrists in an awkward position, and consequently your upper body. Aided in no small part by the comparatively excellent cycling infrastructure here, the Urban Arrow quickly became my daily driver for any and all trips in town. Standard issue is a monstrous two-legged kickstand, front and rear fenders, and front and rear LED lights powered by the Bosch battery. The base model costs $6,000 before you start adding accessories. In fact, these sorts of bikes are practically standard-issue for two-wheeled transportation in the companys home base of the Netherlands. Theres also the issue of service. It may not be as efficient as a conventional e-bike or my regular townie, but Ive also never worried that I wouldnt be able to get something home if I decided to spontaneously drop into a store for something. And in some serious nitpicking, those little cutouts in the front of the box are great, but why arent there cutouts in the rear of the box, too? Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). You can also configure your cargo bike on the Urban Arrow website. Just use the same key thats used for the rear wheel lock to disengage the battery. There was a problem. The cargo box interior dimensions measure 28 inches at bottom front to back. Going along with the function-over-form theme is a basic aluminum handlebar with lots of backsweep, an adjustable stem, and a big, puffy Velo saddle mounted to a basic aluminum seatpost. Its not an indexed shifter, so there are no clicks or set positions to contend with. And when the box is heavily loaded, you can stand on the end of the L-shaped leg and use your own body weight to set the kickstand into place. Otherwise, the stand can drag when you ride around sharp corners. At the rear of the box is a small bench with two sets of three-point seatbelts. The new 2022 Urban Arrow Family Cargo line includes a front loading cargo e-bike (the kind with the big bucket up front) that features a number of updates such as Boschs latest Kiox display and a new Gates Carbon Drive belt included as standard equipment that is designed to replace the chain with a quiet and maintenance-free drivetrain. They get you all the cargo space you need, but make the pedaling much more manageable and even fun! Thank you for signing up to Tom's Guide.
Bosch motor engages quickly and consistently, Backsweep on handlebars puts wrists at awkward angle, Bike weight: 110 pounds At $7,000 as tested, the Urban Arrow Family Cargo bike is priced on a par with other bikes of similar build quality and function. Steering inputs almost seem to happen in slow motion which is usually a good thing for a bike like this and because the whole thing is so long, if one wheel slides out a little, rarely does it result in an actual change in direction. But that was the first time Id heard someone say something to me like that, and its noteworthy that it came from someone who didnt appear to be a cyclist in the traditional sense of the word. If anything, that weight helps the Urban Arrow feel a little more planted than when its empty, but this also highlights one of the bikes handling quirks. That said, the Family Cargo offers a comfortable, safe cargo space for hauling your kids, and the bike is stable and fun to ride. Although most of the components are standard items that can be repaired by many shops, anything specific to Urban Arrow will require a certified dealer, and unless you have an actual pickup truck (with a full-sized bed, no less) and a reliable friend with a strong back to help you load the thing into it, its not very easy to get this somewhere. After 9 miles I had used one bar of battery life out of five. BA1 1UA. But while the heavy-duty wheels havent given me any problems at all, I wish there was at least the option to run this tubeless. But the full-length chain cover has kept drivetrain wear at an impressive minimum since its always shielded from dirt and debris (and the belt-drive kit I have at the ready now comes standard). And it costs the same as one of its closest competitors in size and function, the Yuba SuperCargo, which also starts at $6,000. 2023 Chevy Bolt EV is still the best value EV in the US, Fantic ISSIMO, a 28 mph Italian electric bike, Electric trucks to get $40k in incentives new bill, Youre reading Electrek experts who break news about, Electric Vehicle Price Guide best prices for dealers in the US. In fact, once youre moving, it isnt even always obvious that youve got a lot of weight in the box. If youre hauling kids frequently, consider the rain and sun covers, or the very cool Urban Arrow Poncho ($170) that covers both the rider and the passengers during inclement weather. Ive done multiple-family Costco runs covering 32 km (20 miles) and 240 m (800 ft) of climbing round-trip, with the cargo box and my Ortlieb panniers filled to the brim. The Load 75 from Riese and Muller offers suspension for a comfortable ride, but it costs significantly more than the Urban Arrow. I replaced the rear brake pads after about 18 months, and the rear tire made it about the same amount of time. The Urban Arrow Family Cargo bike fits into a category that includes the Yuba SuperCargo, Riese and Mller Load 75, Triobike Mono, and Triobike Cargo. American communities. Max assist speed: 20mph Theres a standard handlebar-mounted bell thats both loud and friendly so pedestrians know youre approaching from behind. When you park the Family Cargo bike, be sure to use the integrated wheel lock. All rights reserved.
Theres an optional dual-battery kit, too. Current CyclingTips editor-in-chief Caley Fretz (who bought his own Urban Arrow this past September) has resorted to leaving a 9 kg (20 lb) sandbag in the front of his. Urban Arrow makes a heavier-duty version of this bike thats designed more for commercial use, and Ive been curious if that models thicker and stiffer steering linkage rod might be a better solution (assuming its compatible, of course). (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Cargo bikes are one of the coolest inventions on two wheels. Its absolutely as goofy as it sounds, but its far sketchier to run without it. More. ), and a padded floor mat, which inflated the grand total by nearly another US$1,000 (Australian and UK pricing is to be confirmed). Short, sharp inclines were easy to tackle too. Since September, Caley has tallied more than 930 km (580 miles) on his. Ive learned to think of the Urban Arrow as being akin to a two-wheeled pickup truck in terms of its capabilities and usefulness. Otherwise, you can also plug in a heavy-duty chain for more security. Its not a big deal in most riding situations, but mid-corner bumps tend to flex and then unload that rod. Tom's Guide is supported by its audience. But its a pretty evolving list these days. Whether its an Urban Arrow or a much, much more affordable model, there are plenty of great cargo e-bikes out there that can get the kids to school without employing a 5,000-pound death machine to do it. The Yuba SuperCargo is also stable and handles well, and both of these bikes are similarly priced. Without anything in the box, the front end is light and chattery, bouncing over road imperfections and skittering through bumpy corners. The Bosch Cargo Line motor provides ample power with up to 85Nm of torque, even when the bike is loaded down with kids or cargo. A stout aluminum frame allows lots of carrying capacity up to 551 total pounds, passengers included. All told, this amazing machine has covered over 3,700 km (2,300 miles) so far, which is all the more impressive considering theres been a pandemic tossed in there with a full year when my kid was out of school and I wasnt going many places at all. Its stable, comfortable, and packed with some key safety features for your kids. As a result, a heavy load doesnt swing side to side as much as if it were mounted up high (like on a longtail cargo bike). He lives outside of Denver, Colorado with his family. Average range: 31 miles That box is mounted inside a curvaceous aluminum step-through frame with an instantly recognizable silhouette. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. One of the very first rides I did on it was in a support capacity for former CyclingTips editor-in-chief Neal Rogers MAMIL battle with Jonathan Vaughters. Ive used it to carry other bikes. The one-piece EPP shell can be replaced and would most likely be a warranty issue. More people than ever are switching from cars to electric bicycles, though we still often hear the tired argument that families with kids need an SUV in the garage. With bikes like the Urban Arrow Family Cargo line, such high-capacity and high-quality family-oriented cargo e-bikes can actually replace household vehicles used to carry multiple riders or plenty of cargo. The Bosch Performance 500 battery mounts in front of the rider. Despite the comical dimensions, the Urban Arrow has proven to be fun to ride, too. I eventually installed a Cane Creek Thudbuster suspension seatpost, and its been a godsend, particularly given how the laid-back seat tube angle and short chainstays practically put you directly over the rear wheel. At the top, the box measures approximately 37 inches front to back. There is no retail option for this, but replacement units do exist. Life hasnt gotten much easier for the Urban Arrow in the 2+ years since then. There are countless variations of front-loaders out there, but what helps set the Urban Arrow apart is its trademark expanded polypropylene cargo box. Urban Arrow offers several options, but my sample is outfitted with an Enviolo stepless internal rear hub transmission, Shimano Deore single-piston hydraulic front and rear disc brakes, and sturdy tube-type aluminum clincher wheels built with 40-hole Ryde Andra rims, a Shimano M525 front hub (with adjustable cup-and-cone bearings), and burly 13-gauge stainless steel spokes, all wrapped with 55 mm-wide Schwalbe Big Ben Plus tires. The Family Cargo bike tends to offer a lot more compliance in the rear than other cargo bikes Ive tested. published 2 February 22. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. As general manager of Gazelle North America and distributor for Urban Arrow North America Ewoud van Leeuwen explained in a statement provided to Electrek: Micromobility and alternate forms of personal transportation in the United States are continuing to gain traction at an accelerating rate as gas prices skyrocket and urban commuters look for a better way to move through daily life. Whereas most bakfiets use boxes made of various hard-sided materials wood is particularly common or less structured arrangements like woven nylon over an internal frame, this one is sort of like a giant psuedo-rectangular bike helmet, which not only saves weight, but also makes for a softer environment for passengers. The stock Schwalbe tires have been great: theyre smooth-rolling, theyve got good grip, and theyre remarkably puncture-resistant. At a lower setting, it seems entirely plausible to get far more miles out of a single charge. Again, just like a pickup truck, youre lugging around a bunch of empty space much of the time, but theres no substitute when you need it. But while I understand this is a limitation of some European regulations, neither the front nor rear lights can operate in flashing mode to enhance daytime safety, so I still run with a supplemental Bontrager Flare R out back. get home from a physical therapy appointment, Eurobike: Cargo bikes trust us, you're going to buy one, Tern updates 2021 GSD e-cargo bike: same compact package, now with more cargo, Yuba Electric Supermarche e-cargo bike review: The smile machine, Waving at strangers: The bike that changed how I see cycling. Dan Cavallari is the former technical editor for VeloNews Magazine. I use it for grocery store runs (six shopping bags, easy!). When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Its mounted underneath the seat stays. When you want to park, just press the lever down, turn the key, pull it out, and stow it in your pocket. The wide-legged stance is so stable that I no longer worry about kids when they climb into the box, and the rectangular footprint even works well on modest slopes. Of course, it takes more than an effective electric bike to make that a possibility. The rider position is very upright and notably laid-back and the bike is offered in a single one-size-fits-most format. The Magura brakes include an e-bike ABS system that reduces the chances of the rear wheel lifting up during quick front braking, allowing riders to lean harder on the front brake. Most streets in Amsterdam will have at least 2-4 parked outside at night, with many more tucked away inside in gardens or sheds. The EPP foam is susceptible to slight damage from dings and scratches.
This puts it most closely in competition with the also-excellent Yuba SuperCargo. Wheel size: 26-inch rear; 20-inch front. You can send Micah tips at Micah@electrek.co, or find him on Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok. As tricky as those cable-operated steering systems can be on some other box bikes, one major advantage they have over linkage designs is steering angle, which is so poor on the Urban Arrow that even many American residential streets arent wide enough for a U-turn (and let me tell you, we Americans like really wide streets). Its generally easy to handle and fun to ride. Subscribe to Electrek on YouTube for exclusive videos and subscribe to the podcast. I contacted Urban Arrow to ask if there is a replacement in case the foam does get severely damaged. Enviolos Heavy Duty transmission offers some seriously quiet operation. England and Wales company registration number 2008885. If Europeans can do it, maybe Americans one day can too. That motor puts out 85 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful European mid-drive motors (even if it cant hold a candle to the Chinese motors that dont have to play by the same power-limiting rules). Urban Arrows line of Family e-cargo bikes are an inspiring, forward-looking, and award-winning alternative to automobiles for individuals and families looking for a singular, sophisticated solution, and these new updates make the choice even clearer. But if you thought pedaling a normal bike was rough, imagine adding several kiddos and maybe a dog into the mix. Twice-daily school trips and regular in-town errands typically add up to about 50 km, so the typical schedule is to just plug the thing in on weekends. The Bosch Cargo Line motor has a lot to do with that; it engages almost immediately upon pedaling input. A single key handles the whole lot including the Bosch battery cradle. This of course comes down to personal preference; if it were my bike, I would swap out the bars. The Urban Arrow Family Cargo is one of the best e-cargo bikes for families who will spend most of the time hauling the kids around town. You will sacrifice some cargo space to the EPP foam that comprises the cargo box, and that same EPP foam can get damaged easily from hard objects and sharp corners you might be toting. Basically, this just means the cargo portion of the bike is situated in front of the rider instead of behind. I love that I can shift the Enviolo continuously variable rear hub transmission at a standstill since its not always practical to downshift before coming to a stop. The front and rear fenders have flap extensions to minimize spray. Ive never worried much about range for everyday tasks, and only once did I run out of juice for real (and yes, it was a major bummer). My first ride from Good Turn Cycles in Denver to my home in Arvada was 9 miles long and I used the second-to-highest assist setting the entire way. I love good cup-and-cone hubs, and the old mechanic in me appreciates the Shimano front hub specified here. Please refresh the page and try again. Yubas SuperCargo, by comparison, advertises up to 60 miles on a single charge. Operating costs have been very low, too. Yes, are you nice and cold out there? she replies with a naughty grin. If youll regularly be hauling cargo rather than kids, consider some of Urban Arrows other offerings, like the Cargo or Shorty Business. On that note, it also helped me put off purchasing a car for more than two years, and by Caleys estimates, itll save about 2,400 km (1,500 miles) of fuel and wear-and-tear on his truck. So it seems reasonable that Urban Arrows claim of approximately 31 miles per charge makes sense. But a quick-release axle on a bike like this? The Urban Arrow Family Cargo bike rises to the top of the crop in the e-cargo bike category. Total maximum weight capacity: 551 pounds And can I remind you how much attention this thing draws? Built into the seatstays, its a cinch to just lock the rear wheel to keep someone from rolling the Urban Arrow if youre in a low-risk area or youre just popping in for a very quick errand. But just like those people, I cant imagine my life without it, either. Im finishing up my review of Terns second-generation GSD cargo bike, and one of the most dramatic improvements over the first version is the newly added suspension, not just in terms of rider (and passenger) comfort, but also how it makes the bike so much easier to manage on the road. When its not in use, the key locks into place so you dont lose it. At the front, the box measures approximately 17 inches wide and 21 inches wide at the rear. Give them a test ride before buying if you can. The belt connects the Enviolo Heavy Duty continuously variable transmission to Boschs Cargo Line Gen 4 motor. Current retail price for the Urban Arrow is a substantial US$7,000 / 6,690 already, and the company offers a long list of available (and very useful) accessories that further hike up the final total. The range on e-bikes is notoriously variable, but Urban Arrows claim of 50 km of average range feels about right. Its clear that the Family Cargo is designed specifically for hauling kids rather than cargo. The center stand is excellent and is rivaled in stability and usability only by the stand on Yubas SuperCargo. Urban Arrow has opted for the latter, and its generally well done with smooth operation and minimal slop thanks in part to the beefy industrial-strength ball-ends. Tom's Guide is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Chinese motors that dont have to play by the same power-limiting rules. Amsterdam-based Urban Arrow has just updated its Family Cargo line of electric bicycles, making these family-centric electric cargo bikes better than ever for replacing a car in your garage. When activated, walk mode uses the motor to slowly drive the bike forward as you walk next to it. The Family Cargo bikes price is also competitive, starting at $6,000. The Shimano Deore hydraulic disc brakes dont have enough power to rein this thing in, especially when heavily loaded (something Urban Arrow has thankfully since rectified with a switch to more powerful four-piston brakes). The lack of redundancy in the steering system gives me some pause, too. Charge time from nearly zero is about 4 1/2 hours. It offers a streamlined experience with a specific focus on safety and functionality for small passengers in the cargo area.
If youre in the market for a pure cargo bike instead of a kid hauler, you might look elsewhere. And while I didnt think Id use it much initially, the walk mode has proven surprisingly useful. The shifter turns smoothly too, offering a quick resistance adjustment on the fly. In my head, flex in a structural system goes hand in hand with fatigue, and while Im accustomed to periodically inspecting all of my bikes from head to toe, that wont be the case for most Urban Arrow owners. So far, Ive come close but not exceeded, I think the official maximum box capacity of 125 kg (276 lb).
Theres 250 W of sustained power driving the 26 rear wheel (current Urban Arrow models now get updated Bosch motor units), all fed by a single 500 W-h lithium-ion Bosch PowerPack 500 battery. There are no issues at lower speeds, but let me tell you, if you dont have the steerer damper adjusted properly and this beast of a bike starts violently shaking side to side at 30 km/h (with your kid in the box, no less), it sure wakes you up in a hurry. Micah Toll is a personal electric vehicle enthusiast, battery nerd, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling books DIY Lithium Batteries, DIY Solar Power,The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guideand The Electric Bike Manifesto. Proper cycling infrastructure like safe biking paths is sorely missing in many (most?) I love how you can stand on the end of the kickstand leg to get it to engage, but Urban Arrow doesnt plug the tube before installing the rubber feet, and it doesnt take long before it punches through the end (Ive since replaced one foot with a new one, but installed a handlebar plug first). But its also a legitimate game-changer in terms of what it allows you to do by bike, and without question, its the best bike Ive ever owned in terms of how its affected my day-to-day life. As good as this bike is in so many respects, its absolutely unforgivable that this problem is allowed to exist. Its not bad in dry conditions, but it can be very sketchy when its slippery. Those were the words cheerily directed my way as I dropped my kiddo off at school one morning. Ive now spent more than two years with the Urban Arrow Family, and I agree wholeheartedly that it is mega cool.
When that happens on milder corners, theres just a bit of steering correction required. Aside from that, its been pennies in recharge costs, and of course, no other fees typically associated with automobiles like registration and insurance. Another feature on the commercial version of the Urban Arrow thats missing here is front suspension. You can stow up to 275 pounds in the cargo area. The choice may be clear, but it doesnt do the price tag any favors. Im now running extra-thick butyl tubes. If youre looking for an e-cargo bike to safely haul around your kids, you cant do much better than the Urban Arrow Family Cargo. Prices for accessories range from around $10 up to $470, with most key accessories falling into the $230 range. Helping move this unwieldy monster is a Bosch Performance CX mid-drive motor with four assist levels and up to 75 Nm of torque. Ive ridden a lot of incredible high-end bikes over the years, and here in Boulder, Colorado, not a lot of fancy hardware goes unnoticed. I rode from home to the start of the climb at the base of Flagstaff Mountain here in Boulder, and escorted the crew all the way up to the top (the real top, mind you, not the halfway point that many locals consider to be the top). Just like human family members, this Urban Arrow Family has its pros, cons, quirks, and things that drive me crazy. The Urban Arrow is no rocket ship, but the e-assist motor is impressively torquey and responds instantly to pedaling inputs to help mask the substantial mass. There are rain covers, baby seat adapters, extra benches to accommodate more kid passengers, a rear rack, and more.
The foam is quite thick and would therefore take a large impact to truly damage the foam to the point that replacement would be necessary. Granted, such a thing would be tricky for Urban Arrow to tune given the huge variation in loads and wacky weight distribution, but Id like to see the company figure something out here. Need more juice? Supplying that motor is a Bosch 500Wh battery, which should offer some decent range considering the bike is pedal assist only. The Family Cargo can be configured on Urban Arrows website, which offers a host of accessories. I then rode the bike back down and then clear across town to pick up my kid from school. When you hit larger bumps, the rear of the bike feels almost spring-loaded. Its a good thing this step-through frame has such a low standover height, because I guarantee any Urban Arrow owner spends a decent amount of time straddling this thing as they slowly roll it back and forth in a multi-point turn. Many other parents can attest to how difficult it can sometimes be to get your kids into the car, but my kid never objects to getting into the bucket bike.. Even with my 7-year-old daughter riding up front, the ride quality and ease of use didnt seem to change much from an unloaded configuration. According to Urban Arrow, the seat within the cargo area positions your kiddos lower, which serves two purposes. The true wattage is almost certainly higher. By the time we got home, Id covered more than 34 km (21 miles) and 850 m (2,800 ft) of elevation gain, and still had about 10% of battery life remaining. That said, everything else about the Family Cargo feels well-refined. Regardless, the Urban Arrow has become my everyday mode of transportation in town. Max number of passengers: 4 On bikes like this, there are two commonly accepted solutions for connecting the steering column to the front fork: a set of cables and housings (like what Yuba uses on its Electric Supermarch), or a rigid linkage. Just turn the shifter until you find the right resistance for you. low-cost long tail electric cargo e-bikes. Just, uh maybe dont try that on a turn. Perfect for maneuvering this thing fully loaded up my modestly sloped driveway . Once its all configured, Urban Arrow provides a dealer locator button so you can find the dealer nearest you. Heaven forbid something fails in that linkage rod or the bell crank arm on the underside of the steerer tube, or the little tab thats welded to the fork blade as itd undoubtedly result in a nasty crash. As unusual as the Urban Arrow might look, its actually not that uncommon at all. The ones on newer Urban Arrows are thankfully brighter, but I appreciate theyre there, and its nice that theyre hardwired into the main Bosch battery (again, not something exclusive to Urban Arrow, but good to see regardless). Riding it is a pleasure, and despite its nearly 9-foot length and stout 100-pound weight, it feels fairly lithe for a cargo bike. Its a top choice for parents in need of a transportation solution for the kids. Despite the wide range of cargo sizes and weights, the Urban Arrow has taken it all in stride. In addition to VeloNews, his work has appeared in Triathlete Magazine, Rouleur Magazine, CyclingTips.com, Road Bike Action, Mountain Bike Action, CycleVolta.com, Tomsguide.com, and much more. While at times it felt too bouncy, I prefer this over an overly jarring ride quality. Nearly everywhere you look on the Urban Arrow, there are small touches indicating the brands long history in the category. You can buy the Urban Arrow Family Cargo at select bike shops. For massive loads, the three-wheeled Tender would do the trick. They fall into a class of cargo bikes called bakfiets, or box bike in Dutch. I served as a taxi driver for associate editor Abby Mickey one day when she needed to get somewhere downtown, and for Beta contributor Kristin Butcher, whod broken her ankle and needed to get home from a physical therapy appointment. The 20-diameter front wheel is placed way out in front of the cargo box, and theres a long linkage connecting the steering column to the fork. Fear not though, because electric cargo bikes solve that issue beautifully. After all, thats where the main bench is located, and if the rain cover is installed, those front cutouts are useless since the cover opens at the rear. Read the rest of our Urban Arrow Family review to see if its one of the best electric bikes for you and your children. However, the twist shifters dual cable arrangement feels vague, and if youre running the Bosch motor at one of the higher assist settings, its very difficult to shift gears while pedaling unless you really back off the power.
The lights? Immensely useful, heaps of thoughtful details, and plenty of smart accessories make this my favorite bike Ive ever owned. Perhaps related to that linkage flex is the bikes well documented speed wobble issue. I brought this bike in for review way back in late November 2019, and I wasted little time putting it through its paces. I should mention that it didnt take long for me to decide that this bike wasnt just going to be a long-term loaner. The cutouts at the front corners of the box are a nice touch as they provide a handy foothold that make it easier for smaller passengers to get in and out. Often overlooked, the kickstand design is superb. Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, They put your wrists in an awkward position, and consequently your upper body. Aided in no small part by the comparatively excellent cycling infrastructure here, the Urban Arrow quickly became my daily driver for any and all trips in town. Standard issue is a monstrous two-legged kickstand, front and rear fenders, and front and rear LED lights powered by the Bosch battery. The base model costs $6,000 before you start adding accessories. In fact, these sorts of bikes are practically standard-issue for two-wheeled transportation in the companys home base of the Netherlands. Theres also the issue of service. It may not be as efficient as a conventional e-bike or my regular townie, but Ive also never worried that I wouldnt be able to get something home if I decided to spontaneously drop into a store for something. And in some serious nitpicking, those little cutouts in the front of the box are great, but why arent there cutouts in the rear of the box, too? Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). You can also configure your cargo bike on the Urban Arrow website. Just use the same key thats used for the rear wheel lock to disengage the battery. There was a problem. The cargo box interior dimensions measure 28 inches at bottom front to back. Going along with the function-over-form theme is a basic aluminum handlebar with lots of backsweep, an adjustable stem, and a big, puffy Velo saddle mounted to a basic aluminum seatpost. Its not an indexed shifter, so there are no clicks or set positions to contend with. And when the box is heavily loaded, you can stand on the end of the L-shaped leg and use your own body weight to set the kickstand into place. Otherwise, the stand can drag when you ride around sharp corners. At the rear of the box is a small bench with two sets of three-point seatbelts. The new 2022 Urban Arrow Family Cargo line includes a front loading cargo e-bike (the kind with the big bucket up front) that features a number of updates such as Boschs latest Kiox display and a new Gates Carbon Drive belt included as standard equipment that is designed to replace the chain with a quiet and maintenance-free drivetrain. They get you all the cargo space you need, but make the pedaling much more manageable and even fun! Thank you for signing up to Tom's Guide.
Bosch motor engages quickly and consistently, Backsweep on handlebars puts wrists at awkward angle, Bike weight: 110 pounds At $7,000 as tested, the Urban Arrow Family Cargo bike is priced on a par with other bikes of similar build quality and function. Steering inputs almost seem to happen in slow motion which is usually a good thing for a bike like this and because the whole thing is so long, if one wheel slides out a little, rarely does it result in an actual change in direction. But that was the first time Id heard someone say something to me like that, and its noteworthy that it came from someone who didnt appear to be a cyclist in the traditional sense of the word. If anything, that weight helps the Urban Arrow feel a little more planted than when its empty, but this also highlights one of the bikes handling quirks. That said, the Family Cargo offers a comfortable, safe cargo space for hauling your kids, and the bike is stable and fun to ride. Although most of the components are standard items that can be repaired by many shops, anything specific to Urban Arrow will require a certified dealer, and unless you have an actual pickup truck (with a full-sized bed, no less) and a reliable friend with a strong back to help you load the thing into it, its not very easy to get this somewhere. After 9 miles I had used one bar of battery life out of five. BA1 1UA. But while the heavy-duty wheels havent given me any problems at all, I wish there was at least the option to run this tubeless. But the full-length chain cover has kept drivetrain wear at an impressive minimum since its always shielded from dirt and debris (and the belt-drive kit I have at the ready now comes standard). And it costs the same as one of its closest competitors in size and function, the Yuba SuperCargo, which also starts at $6,000. 2023 Chevy Bolt EV is still the best value EV in the US, Fantic ISSIMO, a 28 mph Italian electric bike, Electric trucks to get $40k in incentives new bill, Youre reading Electrek experts who break news about, Electric Vehicle Price Guide best prices for dealers in the US. In fact, once youre moving, it isnt even always obvious that youve got a lot of weight in the box. If youre hauling kids frequently, consider the rain and sun covers, or the very cool Urban Arrow Poncho ($170) that covers both the rider and the passengers during inclement weather. Ive done multiple-family Costco runs covering 32 km (20 miles) and 240 m (800 ft) of climbing round-trip, with the cargo box and my Ortlieb panniers filled to the brim. The Load 75 from Riese and Muller offers suspension for a comfortable ride, but it costs significantly more than the Urban Arrow. I replaced the rear brake pads after about 18 months, and the rear tire made it about the same amount of time. The Urban Arrow Family Cargo bike fits into a category that includes the Yuba SuperCargo, Riese and Mller Load 75, Triobike Mono, and Triobike Cargo. American communities. Max assist speed: 20mph Theres a standard handlebar-mounted bell thats both loud and friendly so pedestrians know youre approaching from behind. When you park the Family Cargo bike, be sure to use the integrated wheel lock. All rights reserved.
Theres an optional dual-battery kit, too. Current CyclingTips editor-in-chief Caley Fretz (who bought his own Urban Arrow this past September) has resorted to leaving a 9 kg (20 lb) sandbag in the front of his. Urban Arrow makes a heavier-duty version of this bike thats designed more for commercial use, and Ive been curious if that models thicker and stiffer steering linkage rod might be a better solution (assuming its compatible, of course). (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Cargo bikes are one of the coolest inventions on two wheels. Its absolutely as goofy as it sounds, but its far sketchier to run without it. More. ), and a padded floor mat, which inflated the grand total by nearly another US$1,000 (Australian and UK pricing is to be confirmed). Short, sharp inclines were easy to tackle too. Since September, Caley has tallied more than 930 km (580 miles) on his. Ive learned to think of the Urban Arrow as being akin to a two-wheeled pickup truck in terms of its capabilities and usefulness. Otherwise, you can also plug in a heavy-duty chain for more security. Its not a big deal in most riding situations, but mid-corner bumps tend to flex and then unload that rod. Tom's Guide is supported by its audience. But its a pretty evolving list these days. Whether its an Urban Arrow or a much, much more affordable model, there are plenty of great cargo e-bikes out there that can get the kids to school without employing a 5,000-pound death machine to do it. The Yuba SuperCargo is also stable and handles well, and both of these bikes are similarly priced. Without anything in the box, the front end is light and chattery, bouncing over road imperfections and skittering through bumpy corners. The Bosch Cargo Line motor provides ample power with up to 85Nm of torque, even when the bike is loaded down with kids or cargo. A stout aluminum frame allows lots of carrying capacity up to 551 total pounds, passengers included. All told, this amazing machine has covered over 3,700 km (2,300 miles) so far, which is all the more impressive considering theres been a pandemic tossed in there with a full year when my kid was out of school and I wasnt going many places at all. Its stable, comfortable, and packed with some key safety features for your kids. As a result, a heavy load doesnt swing side to side as much as if it were mounted up high (like on a longtail cargo bike). He lives outside of Denver, Colorado with his family. Average range: 31 miles That box is mounted inside a curvaceous aluminum step-through frame with an instantly recognizable silhouette. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. One of the very first rides I did on it was in a support capacity for former CyclingTips editor-in-chief Neal Rogers MAMIL battle with Jonathan Vaughters. Ive used it to carry other bikes. The one-piece EPP shell can be replaced and would most likely be a warranty issue. More people than ever are switching from cars to electric bicycles, though we still often hear the tired argument that families with kids need an SUV in the garage. With bikes like the Urban Arrow Family Cargo line, such high-capacity and high-quality family-oriented cargo e-bikes can actually replace household vehicles used to carry multiple riders or plenty of cargo. The Bosch Performance 500 battery mounts in front of the rider. Despite the comical dimensions, the Urban Arrow has proven to be fun to ride, too. I eventually installed a Cane Creek Thudbuster suspension seatpost, and its been a godsend, particularly given how the laid-back seat tube angle and short chainstays practically put you directly over the rear wheel. At the top, the box measures approximately 37 inches front to back. There is no retail option for this, but replacement units do exist. Life hasnt gotten much easier for the Urban Arrow in the 2+ years since then. There are countless variations of front-loaders out there, but what helps set the Urban Arrow apart is its trademark expanded polypropylene cargo box. Urban Arrow offers several options, but my sample is outfitted with an Enviolo stepless internal rear hub transmission, Shimano Deore single-piston hydraulic front and rear disc brakes, and sturdy tube-type aluminum clincher wheels built with 40-hole Ryde Andra rims, a Shimano M525 front hub (with adjustable cup-and-cone bearings), and burly 13-gauge stainless steel spokes, all wrapped with 55 mm-wide Schwalbe Big Ben Plus tires. The Family Cargo bike tends to offer a lot more compliance in the rear than other cargo bikes Ive tested. published 2 February 22. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. As general manager of Gazelle North America and distributor for Urban Arrow North America Ewoud van Leeuwen explained in a statement provided to Electrek: Micromobility and alternate forms of personal transportation in the United States are continuing to gain traction at an accelerating rate as gas prices skyrocket and urban commuters look for a better way to move through daily life. Whereas most bakfiets use boxes made of various hard-sided materials wood is particularly common or less structured arrangements like woven nylon over an internal frame, this one is sort of like a giant psuedo-rectangular bike helmet, which not only saves weight, but also makes for a softer environment for passengers. The stock Schwalbe tires have been great: theyre smooth-rolling, theyve got good grip, and theyre remarkably puncture-resistant. At a lower setting, it seems entirely plausible to get far more miles out of a single charge. Again, just like a pickup truck, youre lugging around a bunch of empty space much of the time, but theres no substitute when you need it. But while I understand this is a limitation of some European regulations, neither the front nor rear lights can operate in flashing mode to enhance daytime safety, so I still run with a supplemental Bontrager Flare R out back. get home from a physical therapy appointment, Eurobike: Cargo bikes trust us, you're going to buy one, Tern updates 2021 GSD e-cargo bike: same compact package, now with more cargo, Yuba Electric Supermarche e-cargo bike review: The smile machine, Waving at strangers: The bike that changed how I see cycling. Dan Cavallari is the former technical editor for VeloNews Magazine. I use it for grocery store runs (six shopping bags, easy!). When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Its mounted underneath the seat stays. When you want to park, just press the lever down, turn the key, pull it out, and stow it in your pocket. The wide-legged stance is so stable that I no longer worry about kids when they climb into the box, and the rectangular footprint even works well on modest slopes. Of course, it takes more than an effective electric bike to make that a possibility. The rider position is very upright and notably laid-back and the bike is offered in a single one-size-fits-most format. The Magura brakes include an e-bike ABS system that reduces the chances of the rear wheel lifting up during quick front braking, allowing riders to lean harder on the front brake. Most streets in Amsterdam will have at least 2-4 parked outside at night, with many more tucked away inside in gardens or sheds. The EPP foam is susceptible to slight damage from dings and scratches.
This puts it most closely in competition with the also-excellent Yuba SuperCargo. Wheel size: 26-inch rear; 20-inch front. You can send Micah tips at Micah@electrek.co, or find him on Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok. As tricky as those cable-operated steering systems can be on some other box bikes, one major advantage they have over linkage designs is steering angle, which is so poor on the Urban Arrow that even many American residential streets arent wide enough for a U-turn (and let me tell you, we Americans like really wide streets). Its generally easy to handle and fun to ride. Subscribe to Electrek on YouTube for exclusive videos and subscribe to the podcast. I contacted Urban Arrow to ask if there is a replacement in case the foam does get severely damaged. Enviolos Heavy Duty transmission offers some seriously quiet operation. England and Wales company registration number 2008885. If Europeans can do it, maybe Americans one day can too. That motor puts out 85 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful European mid-drive motors (even if it cant hold a candle to the Chinese motors that dont have to play by the same power-limiting rules). Urban Arrows line of Family e-cargo bikes are an inspiring, forward-looking, and award-winning alternative to automobiles for individuals and families looking for a singular, sophisticated solution, and these new updates make the choice even clearer. But if you thought pedaling a normal bike was rough, imagine adding several kiddos and maybe a dog into the mix. Twice-daily school trips and regular in-town errands typically add up to about 50 km, so the typical schedule is to just plug the thing in on weekends. The Bosch Cargo Line motor has a lot to do with that; it engages almost immediately upon pedaling input. A single key handles the whole lot including the Bosch battery cradle. This of course comes down to personal preference; if it were my bike, I would swap out the bars. The Urban Arrow Family Cargo is one of the best e-cargo bikes for families who will spend most of the time hauling the kids around town. You will sacrifice some cargo space to the EPP foam that comprises the cargo box, and that same EPP foam can get damaged easily from hard objects and sharp corners you might be toting. Basically, this just means the cargo portion of the bike is situated in front of the rider instead of behind. I love that I can shift the Enviolo continuously variable rear hub transmission at a standstill since its not always practical to downshift before coming to a stop. The front and rear fenders have flap extensions to minimize spray. Ive never worried much about range for everyday tasks, and only once did I run out of juice for real (and yes, it was a major bummer). My first ride from Good Turn Cycles in Denver to my home in Arvada was 9 miles long and I used the second-to-highest assist setting the entire way. I love good cup-and-cone hubs, and the old mechanic in me appreciates the Shimano front hub specified here. Please refresh the page and try again. Yubas SuperCargo, by comparison, advertises up to 60 miles on a single charge. Operating costs have been very low, too. Yes, are you nice and cold out there? she replies with a naughty grin. If youll regularly be hauling cargo rather than kids, consider some of Urban Arrows other offerings, like the Cargo or Shorty Business. On that note, it also helped me put off purchasing a car for more than two years, and by Caleys estimates, itll save about 2,400 km (1,500 miles) of fuel and wear-and-tear on his truck. So it seems reasonable that Urban Arrows claim of approximately 31 miles per charge makes sense. But a quick-release axle on a bike like this? The Urban Arrow Family Cargo bike rises to the top of the crop in the e-cargo bike category. Total maximum weight capacity: 551 pounds And can I remind you how much attention this thing draws? Built into the seatstays, its a cinch to just lock the rear wheel to keep someone from rolling the Urban Arrow if youre in a low-risk area or youre just popping in for a very quick errand. But just like those people, I cant imagine my life without it, either. Im finishing up my review of Terns second-generation GSD cargo bike, and one of the most dramatic improvements over the first version is the newly added suspension, not just in terms of rider (and passenger) comfort, but also how it makes the bike so much easier to manage on the road. When its not in use, the key locks into place so you dont lose it. At the front, the box measures approximately 17 inches wide and 21 inches wide at the rear. Give them a test ride before buying if you can. The belt connects the Enviolo Heavy Duty continuously variable transmission to Boschs Cargo Line Gen 4 motor. Current retail price for the Urban Arrow is a substantial US$7,000 / 6,690 already, and the company offers a long list of available (and very useful) accessories that further hike up the final total. The range on e-bikes is notoriously variable, but Urban Arrows claim of 50 km of average range feels about right. Its clear that the Family Cargo is designed specifically for hauling kids rather than cargo. The center stand is excellent and is rivaled in stability and usability only by the stand on Yubas SuperCargo. Urban Arrow has opted for the latter, and its generally well done with smooth operation and minimal slop thanks in part to the beefy industrial-strength ball-ends. Tom's Guide is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Chinese motors that dont have to play by the same power-limiting rules. Amsterdam-based Urban Arrow has just updated its Family Cargo line of electric bicycles, making these family-centric electric cargo bikes better than ever for replacing a car in your garage. When activated, walk mode uses the motor to slowly drive the bike forward as you walk next to it. The Family Cargo bikes price is also competitive, starting at $6,000. The Shimano Deore hydraulic disc brakes dont have enough power to rein this thing in, especially when heavily loaded (something Urban Arrow has thankfully since rectified with a switch to more powerful four-piston brakes). The lack of redundancy in the steering system gives me some pause, too. Charge time from nearly zero is about 4 1/2 hours. It offers a streamlined experience with a specific focus on safety and functionality for small passengers in the cargo area.
If youre in the market for a pure cargo bike instead of a kid hauler, you might look elsewhere. And while I didnt think Id use it much initially, the walk mode has proven surprisingly useful. The shifter turns smoothly too, offering a quick resistance adjustment on the fly. In my head, flex in a structural system goes hand in hand with fatigue, and while Im accustomed to periodically inspecting all of my bikes from head to toe, that wont be the case for most Urban Arrow owners. So far, Ive come close but not exceeded, I think the official maximum box capacity of 125 kg (276 lb).