A family of four, including children aged two and four, used the Xtracycle Hopper electric cargo bike as a replacement for a second car over a 1,000 km (620 miles) test period. The bike was used daily for daycare runs and family outings to the beach, proving to be a more enjoyable alternative to car travel for both parents and children.
The Hopper features a 750W motor and a 48V 15Ah battery with 720Wh capacity. It can reach speeds of 45 km/h (28 mph) with pedal assist or 32 km/h (20 mph) using the throttle. The bike is rated for a total weight of 227 kg (500 lb), with the rear rack supporting up to 110 kg (242 lb).
Designed for daily utility, the bike is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, a suspension fork, integrated lights, full fenders, and a dropper seatpost. It includes passenger rails, footrests, and a front PorterRack. The bike's 20-inch wheels maintain a low center of gravity for stability when carrying passengers.
The Xtracycle Hopper is priced at $2,499. While more expensive than some budget cargo bikes, the company emphasizes build quality and higher-end components to ensure long-term reliability. The only mechanical issue reported during the 1,000 km test was a broken spring on the dual-leg kickstand, which was replaced under warranty.
