Buying advice for cargo bikes: Dynamic and resilient - this is the Long-John

If you want to transport heavy loads and still ride dynamically, there's no getting round a Long John. The idea behind the classic cargo bike: a low loading area in front of the rider for the lowest possible centre of gravity and a small front wheel. Due to the low loading area, the steering is not direct, but by means of a transmission.

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The Long-John: dynamic and powerful

The special shape means you have to get used to the riding characteristics. The bike often needs a little more space to park because of its length. Once you get the hang of it, however, the Long Johns offer great riding dynamics. Unlike many other cargo bikes, the handling often even improves with a load.

A weight allowance of up to 100 kilos in the cargo box in front of the driver is not uncommon. As with the cargo trike, you have a good view of passengers and cargo. There is often an additional luggage rack at the rear. Long johns are available in many different designs. Rather compact models, especially those without a motor, can be carried over a few steps if necessary. Full suspension, as on the Riese & Müller, maximises comfort.

Category overview: The Long-John in the MYBIKE check

Advantages:

• High payload
• Good handling characteristics even with a load
• Driving fun, especially with kids in the front of the box

Disadvantages:

• Expensive
• Often long overall length
• Safe driving takes some practice

Category: How the Long John performs

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Model overview: Four recommendations at a glance

Riese and Müller Load

• Weight: from 40 kg
• Price: from 5999 Euro

If you're looking for a particularly comfortable long john that doesn't shy away from bad roads, the Load from Riese und Müller is the bike for you. The full suspension has been around for a very long time, but is still a unique selling point. Riding characteristics and durability are also impressive. Of course, the bike is a little more expensive and rather heavy.

Larry vs Harry eBullit Shimano

• Weight: from 28 kg
• Price: from 5240 Euro

The minimalist classic from Denmark favours a sporty riding position and reduced technology. Thanks to the rigid fork, it is durable and relatively light (from 28 kilos). The e-system comes from Shimano. However, the Bullit can also be ridden without a motor due to its low weight. The length is around 2.4 metres.

Mule muscle

• Weight: from 24 kg
• Price: from 2890 Euro

The cargo bike from the Cologne-based forge has become famous for its compact dimensions. At less than two metres long, it is hardly bulkier than a trekking bike, and handling is also particularly agile. The cargo box can be practically folded up and locked when not in use. The Muli is of course also available with a motor from Shimano or, more recently, from Bosch.

Tarran T1 Pro Tarran

• Weight: 65 kg
• Price: 6999 Euro

The Chinese newcomer's cargo bike is a real technology carrier. Fully networked, fully suspended, cameras everywhere for an overview in traffic and snapshots on the move. Self-extending stabiliser wheels even allow the heavy vehicle to be moved sideways when stationary.

The other cargo bike types

In addition to the long john, cargo bikes are also available as longtails and cargo trikes. We have taken a closer look at both. The longtail is primarily used for transporting people, while the trike often has a large cargo box.