Carlos Midtail Basic green at Fatbikeskopen.nl

The green Carlos Midtail Basic is the understated version of this model, alongside the orange and black versions. A midtail sits between a regular bike and a longtail in length: the rear frame is extended but shorter, keeping the bike maneuverable and allowing it to fit in a standard rack. It has a 750 watt-hour battery, a low step-through, disc brakes, and front suspension. It is intended for short rides with luggage or a child.

Why choose a midtail

A longtail is long, which you notice when turning around in a narrow street and when storing it. A midtail strikes a balance: enough extra space at the back for a child or a substantial amount of groceries, but shorter than a full-sized longtail. For people living in a city center or with a cramped shed, that is often decisive. Compared with a true longtail, you do sacrifice some cargo space. What seems minor on paper is often noticeable on the road.

Difference from the Midtail Full

The Full has a higher stated range—120 kilometers compared with 60 here—and comes with front and rear racks installed as standard. With the Basic, you order those racks separately. If you mainly take short rides within built-up areas and already have a rack, the Basic is more affordable. If you take longer rides every day or carry heavy loads, the Full performs better in practice than this version.

Range of the Carlos Midtail Basic

The 750 watt-hour battery is rated for up to 60 kilometers, with a margin that the manufacturer itself mentions. That is modest for this capacity, which is related to the weight of an extended frame carrying a load. The advantage is that you can actually achieve 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 no special setup is needed.

Low step-through and brakes

On a stretched frame, a low step-through is convenient: when carrying luggage or a child on the back, you do not want to swing your leg over a loaded rear section. Here, you step straight through the frame. It has disc brakes and front suspension. There is no rear suspension, which you notice with a stretched frame because the rear wheel hits a bump after you have already ridden over it. The lighting is permanently mounted on the electric bike and runs on the main battery. When the bike is delivered, check the brake lever reach; you can adjust it in a few seconds.

Who is this version for?

For anyone who regularly carries a child or groceries, cannot accommodate a full longtail, and wants a color that is neither bright nor black. The maximum total weight is 140 kilos, including you and your load; with an adult weighing 80 kilos, you have 60 kilos left. Enough for one child plus luggage, but tight for two. The moving parts and battery come with a one-year warranty. For commuting within built-up areas, this equipment is more than sufficient. If you are unsure about the size, measure your inseam and compare it with the stated values.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

A midtail handles differently from both a regular bike and a longtail, and colors are best judged in person. You can do both at one of the ten showrooms, where you can schedule a test ride right away. For maintenance, you can visit 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 your order. You can pay in full or in installments. Upon delivery, the bike is assembled and adjusted outside your door.

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