Carlos Compact Basic by Fatbikeskopen.nl

The Carlos Compact Basic is the entry-level version of the Carlos Compact: a longtail with a 750 watt-hour battery, a low step-through frame, and disc brakes. While the Full version comes with more accessories and has a higher stated range, here you choose the frame and basic equipment. For those who mainly carry groceries and do not ride long distances every day, this is often exactly enough bike.

Difference from the Compact Full

Two things. The Full has a higher stated range—120 kilometers compared with 60 for this version—and comes with front and rear racks mounted as standard. With the Basic, you order those racks separately if you want them. If you mainly take short rides in built-up areas and already have a rack, the Basic is more affordable. If you ride longer distances every day or carry heavy loads, the Full is the more logical choice. Small differences like these matter more the more often you use the electric bike.

Range of the Compact Basic

The 750 watt-hour battery is rated for up to 60 kilometers, with a margin that the manufacturer specifies. That is modest for this capacity, which has to do with the weight of a longtail carrying a load. The advantage is that you can actually reach those 60 kilometers in practice. For the daily ride to school or the store, that is more than enough, even with a full bag on the back. Do not leave the battery outside in freezing temperatures; this helps preserve its capacity over time. You can charge it from a standard wall outlet, so you do not need a separate setup.

Low step-through frame on a longtail

On a longtail, a low step-through frame is not a luxury: with luggage or a child on the back, you do not want to swing your leg over a loaded rear end. Here, you step straight through the frame. The rear frame is extended, so it can carry more than a regular luggage rack while keeping the weight low to the ground. This makes the bike more stable when loaded than a regular city bike with a full rack.

Brakes and suspension

The Compact Basic has disc brakes and front suspension. There is no rear suspension, which you notice on a long bike because the rear section hits a bump just as you have already passed over it. The wide tires absorb some of the impact. For rides around town on asphalt and bike paths, that is fine. If you ride over poor road surfaces every day, full suspension is more comfortable. When the bike is delivered, check the brake lever reach; you can adjust it in a few seconds. The brake pads and discs use standard sizes, so they can be replaced at any service point.

Who is the Carlos Compact Basic for?

For people who regularly carry items, do not have room for a cargo bike, and do not ride long distances. The maximum total weight is 140 kilos, including you and your cargo; with an 80-kilo adult, you have 60 kilos left. That is plenty for groceries and one child, but tight for two larger children. The moving parts and the battery come with a one-year warranty. If you are unsure about the size, measure your inseam and compare it with the stated values. Anyone who rides it every day will notice these choices sooner than someone who only takes an occasional ride.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

A longtail handles differently from a regular bike, especially when loaded. Book a test ride at one of the ten showrooms and bring some weight to place on the rear. For maintenance, you can visit one of more than 450 service points in the Netherlands. If you order online, the bike will be delivered to your home ready to ride. You can arrange insurance when placing the order, and payment can be spread out. Upon delivery, the bike will be assembled and adjusted outside your door. After delivery, you have fourteen days to take it for a test ride.

See also: Carlos | longtails | cargo bikes | all fat bikes