Editorial view
Lots of useful new features, and all without a price increase: on paper, the 2027 Famulo cargo bike from Pegasus offers excellent value for money. In particular, the low-maintenance belt drive is only included as standard in many rival products at a higher price. However, anyone wishing to cover longer distances should factor in the extra cost of a larger battery.
Pegasus has revamped its Famulo Longtail and is unveiling the E5F Belt, an updated version of the electric cargo bike. The most striking new feature is right there in the name: the belt drive. What may seem like a technical detail at first glance is, for many cargo bike users, a tangible everyday advantage. A belt runs more quietly, requires no lubrication and is considered to need significantly less maintenance than a traditional chain – particularly on a bike that is used every day to carry children, shopping or tools.
Another new feature: Pegasus has now opted for 20-inch wheels on the Famulo instead of the 22-inch version previously used. A decision that may seem unremarkable at first glance, but which is based on a pragmatic consideration – the availability of spare parts for 20-inch wheels is simply better. Anyone who relies on their bike for everyday use will be grateful for this. Here, we’ve taken a closer look at the ‘long-tail’ category.
Bosch motor – but with a smaller battery
The Famulo E5F Belt is powered by the Bosch Performance Line PX in the Smart System, which delivers up to 90 Nm of torque following the latest update. Pegasus has managed to achieve some cost savings on the battery compared with its predecessor. The basic version, priced at 3,999 euros, comes with only the more affordable PowerPack 545. The previous model featured at least the 600-watt-hour battery. For an additional charge, you can still fit a battery with up to 800 watt-hours behind the seat tube.
Selection is made via a Shimano Nexus 5-speed hub gear (reviewed here), which works reliably even in dirty and wet conditions and, in combination with the belt drive, fits in with the low-maintenance philosophy of the overall package. In town driving, the five gears and the slightly narrower gear range are sufficient, provided the hills aren’t too steep or too long.
The facts about the Pegasus Famulo Longtail
- Engine: Bosch Performance Line PX (Smart System), max. 90 Nm
- Battery: 545 Wh (standard), 800 Wh optional
- Circuit: Shimano Nexus 5 SG-C7000-SD (belt drive)
- Brakes: Shimano BR-MT420, 4-piston hydraulic disc brake
- Impeller size: 20 inches
- Permitted total weight: 250 kg, maximum rear load: 60 kg
- Height: 1.60 to 1.99 m (handlebars and saddle can be adjusted without tools)
- Price: from 3,999 euros
What further sets the Famulo apart from some of its competitors is that Pegasus supplies the bike ex-works with standard equipment for which other manufacturers charge extra. These include struts, footrests and bridges for the rear system – as well as the Kid & Carry System, which allows for flexible expansion with a wide range of accessories. Anyone wishing to customise their bike will find a correspondingly wide range of accessories available.
High payload – but not at the rear
What’s exceptional is the high maximum permissible weight of 250 kilos; the average for other longtails tends to be around 200 kilos. This means that even heavier riders with plenty of luggage can manage just fine on the Famulo. There is, however, one restriction: the rear luggage rack can carry a maximum of 60 kilos. On some rival models, the rear rack is designed to carry up to 80 kilos. This means that adults are unlikely to fit on the passenger seats of the Pegasus Famulo.
Extra comfort in everyday life
Another new feature on the 2027 model is the straightforward height adjustment of the saddle and cockpit. Both can be adjusted to suit different riders without the need for tools. On top of that, the new model comes with a high-quality Mobie suspension fork from SR Suntour, which noticeably enhances riding comfort. The previous model featured a rigid fork.
However, those interested will have to wait a little longer until the new edition is available in shops. The new Famulo is due to go on sale in early 2027 for 3,999 euros.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD