There are several physical, philosophical, environmental, and logistical reasons why it’s better to hop on an electric cargo bike than it is to drive a car. Sitting in traffic is mind-numbing. Earth is on fire. Yet somehow it's easy to ignore all this when you're late to work and have yet to wrestle pants onto your screaming toddler.
If you're trying to reconcile your carefree biking days of yore with your current life as a family chauffeur—or you just want a bike for trips to the supermarket or hardware store—I highly recommend getting an electric cargo bike. Mine has transformed my life, turning my dull, daily errand-running into a multitasking combination of joyride and workout. I ride each bike for around 20 miles, hauling my kids to school or the dog to the vet, toting large zucchinis or who knows what. Our new top pick is the Urban Arrow FamilyNext Pro ($8,999), and my own personal favorite is the Surly Skid Loader ($4,999).
OK, great! Now you have a bike. Now you just need one of the Best Ebike Locks, one of the Best Bike Helmets, and a few of the Best Bike Lights. Don't forget to check out the rest of our outdoor guides and reviews for more.
Updated September 2025: We've overhauled this guide and added the Tern GSD, Urban Arrow FamilyNext Pro, Bike Friday All-Day, and Surly Skid Loader.