The lightest cargo bikes available are perfect for condo and city dwellers

Herewith, we explore a selection of the lightest cargo bikes, electric and non-electric, tailor-made for urban dwellers and enthusiasts who value both convenience and environmental consciousness.

In the ever-evolving landscape of urban transportation, cargo bikes have emerged as a versatile solution for those seeking eco-friendly, space-efficient mobility. Whether you reside in a condo or simply prioritize compactness and lightness, there are cargo bikes just right for you that offer a practical and sustainable way to navigate city life.

Bike Friday Haul-a-Day Elite

Introducing the Haul-a-Day Elite, a revolutionary long-tail cargo bike set to redefine urban mobility in 2023. It stands as the lightest and most versatile in its class, challenging conventional notions of weight and carrying capacity.

Weighing just 34lbs, the Haul-a-Day Elite effortlessly supports loads of up to 440lbs. Its low center of gravity simplifies loading and unloading, while the frame adapts to riders ranging from 4ft 9in to 6ft 6in. Optional e-assist provides an extra boost, and the bike disassembles conveniently for car trunk storage.

Handcrafted with precision in Oregon, USA, the Haul-a-Day Elite combines strength and lightness, offering an exceptional riding experience. Drawing from a decade of customer feedback and multiple victories in the Disaster Relief Trials, it emerges as stiffer, lighter, and more stable under heavy loads.

Notable improvements include twin adjustable main tubes, a 1lb lighter frame, and a weight rating of 440lbs GVWR. Enhanced braking, dedicated rear light mount, and wider tire compatibility add to its appeal.

New accessories, such as an Elite frame bag and improved compatibility with Yepp seats, enhance versatility. The Haul-a-Day Elite’s unique features include its liftability, space-saving storage, and the ability to fit various transport racks.

In 2023, the Haul-a-Day Elite promises a remarkable urban exploration experience, tailored to condo living and beyond.

Bike Friday Haul-A-Day Elite

Tern Short Haul

The Tern Short Haul cargo bike is a remarkable example of efficiency and convenience in a compact and lightweight design.

This simple and impressive cargo bike boasts serious cargo capacity. With a rear rack capable of carrying up to 50 kg and the option of adding a front rack for an additional 20 kg, it adapts effortlessly to your cargo needs. Whether you’re transporting groceries, gear, or your furry companion, this bike offers the versatility you require.

Designed to cater to a wide range of riders, it accommodates individuals ranging from 147 cm to 190 cm in height and supports riders weighing up to 120 kg. The low standover height of 49 cm simplifies mounting and dismounting, even when you’re carrying a heavy load.

Gear shifting is smooth and efficient with the 1×8-speed Shimano Altus derailleur and trigger shifter. You’ll have the right gear at your fingertips, whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling inclines.

Despite its impressive cargo capabilities, the Tern Short Haul maintains a lightweight and compact design, making it an ideal choice for urban commuters. It weighs just 35 lbs. 8 oz., ensuring that your rides remain agile and efficient, whether you’re carrying cargo or enjoying a leisurely cruise through the city.

lightest cargo bikes

Yuba Kombi

For those seeking a cargo bike that’s both budget-friendly and space-efficient, the Yuba Kombi Cargo Bike offers an appealing option. Priced at $1,200.00, it delivers on compactness without compromising on utility.

With a short wheelbase measuring just 124 cm, akin to that of a cruiser bike, the Kombi boasts impressive portability and storage convenience. Paired with 24-inch tires, it becomes a practical choice for urban dwellers. Despite its small footprint, the Kombi maintains versatility by accommodating up to two children on its spacious rear rack.

Notably, the Kombi can handle a total weight of 440 pounds, including the rider, translating to approximately 300 pounds of cargo capacity. The package includes a double kickstand at no extra cost, adding to its value.

Designed to ensure a comfortable ride, the Kombi features a fully adjustable seat and cockpit, catering to riders ranging from 6’5″ to 4’9″. The mid step-through frame simplifies mounting and dismounting, even with children on board.

In terms of compatibility, the Kombi is versatile, accommodating various Yuba accessories such as Adjustable Monkey Bars, Baguette pannier, 2-Go Bags, Hold-On Bars, Bread Basket front basket, and Frame Lock. The rear rack is designed to fit the Yepp Nexxt Maxi child seat, accommodating two seats simultaneously. Moreover, with the addition of the Yepp EZ fit adapter, it becomes compatible with the Yepp Maxi Easyfit Child Seat.

The Kombi doesn’t stop at the basics. It comes equipped with a set of thoughtful extras, including a bell, battery-powered front and rear lights, a front fender, a rear wheelskirt, and Yuba’s Deflopilator, ensuring front wheel stability while the kickstand is in use.

In summary, the Yuba Kombi Cargo Bike is an affordable, space-saving solution for those in need of a versatile cargo bike that excels in urban environments.

Yuba Kombi, seriously compact

Vello Sub

Introducing the VELLO SUB, a lightweight and compact e-cargo bike, a remarkable solution that redefines urban mobility. This e-cargo bike, known as the Smart Utility Bike (SUB), stands out for its exceptional lightweight design, making it one of the lightest longtail e-cargo bikes available.

The VELLO SUB is powered by a robust electric motor and boasts a substantial battery capacity, enabling effortless daily tasks. Whether it’s transporting children or handling shopping, this bike’s lightweight construction ensures it can be lifted with ease, and its equipment can be adjusted without the need for any tools, making it incredibly versatile.

Measuring a standard length of 180 cm, the VELLO SUB is ingeniously designed with foldable elements that allow it to fit into tight spaces on public transport or in the trunk of a car, elevating urban mobility to the next level. With a low weight of just 61 pounds for the SUB itself, this e-cargo bike is a game-changer in urban transportation. Its folded dimensions of H: 85 cm x L: 180 cm x W: 29 cm ensure it’s easy to store and transport when not in use.

Step up to the titanium model and drop another nine pounds.

This bike features a high-performance Bosch® electric motor, powerful Magura® disc brakes, and a reliable Gates Carbon Drive.

Vello Sub

Xtracycle RFA

The Xtracycle RFA (Ready For Anything) cargo bike a compact and versatile urban companion.

The lightweight and cargo bike redefines convenience, offering a perfect blend of practicality and versatility tailored for city living, particularly in small spaces like condos.

The RFA’s compact design, akin to a regular bike, and 60-pound weight effortlessly maneuvers through bustling city streets. Its agility allows you to navigate through traffic with ease, making it the ideal choice for urban commuters. Moreover, its compact frame ensures it seamlessly fits into small living spaces, making it condo-friendly.

What truly sets the RFA apart is its adaptability. Built to last, it’s an investment that can be handed down through generations. As your life evolves, so does the RFA, transforming effortlessly from utility to sport mode to cater to your changing needs.

Equipped with the Shimano STEPS EP8 system, the RFA offers a top pedal-assist speed of 20 mph and up to 85 nM of torque, perfect for conquering hills or carrying heavy loads. The single 630 watt-hour battery provides an impressive range of 30 to 60 miles per charge, depending on conditions. The included cycling computer ensures you have easy access to system controls right at your fingertips.

Xtracycle RFA

Co-op Cycles Generation e1.2

Unlock a new level of urban mobility with the Co-op Cycles Generation e1.2 Cargo Bike—a great example of one of the lightest cargo bike design.

In the realm of electric bikes, the Generation e1.2 is a standout. Classified as a Class 1 e-bike, it provides pedal assist up to 20 mph. At its core lies a formidable Bafang 350W motor, harmonizing with a potent Bafang 48V/14AH removable battery boasting a substantial 672-watt-hour capacity. All this innovation is elegantly packaged within a frame that tips the scales at a mere 54 pounds.

What truly sets the Co-op Cycles Generation e1.2 apart is its amplified cargo prowess. With the inclusion of a front rack and an upgraded battery, it excels at transporting heavier loads while retaining its compact profile.

The low stand-over height design ensures seamless mounting and dismounting, even when your cargo is substantial. This thoughtful feature enhances overall safety by providing stability during stops.

The one-size adjustable frame is engineered to accommodate a diverse range of rider heights, from 6’5″ to 4’9″. This adaptability ensures that bike-sharing among friends and family is a breeze.

Co-op Cycles

The lightest cargo bikes aren’t just a means of transportation; they’re a lifestyle choice that champions convenience, sustainability, and the joy of city living. So, embrace the future of urban mobility, and let your cargo bike be your trusted companion in the bustling streets of city life. There is a cargo bike for everyone.