Carlos Midtail Basic by Fatbikeskopen.nl

The Carlos Midtail Basic is the entry-level version of the Carlos Midtail: a bike with an extended rear frame that is shorter than a true longtail. This keeps it maneuverable and allows it to fit in a standard bike rack, while still giving you extra cargo space. It features a 750-watt-hour battery, a low step-through, disc brakes, and front suspension. For anyone who regularly carries groceries or a child over short distances.

Why choose a midtail

A longtail is long, and you notice that when turning in a narrow street and when storing it. A midtail strikes a balance: enough extra space at the back for a child or a large load of groceries, but shorter than a full-size longtail. For those who live in a city center or have a cramped shed, this is often the deciding factor. In return, you sacrifice some cargo space compared with a true longtail. Differences that seem minor on paper are often noticeable on the road. Small differences like these matter more the more often you use the electric bike.

Difference from the Midtail Full

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

Range of the Midtail Basic

The 750-watt-hour battery is rated for up to 60 kilometers, with a margin that the manufacturer itself includes. 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 reach those 60 kilometers in practice. For the daily trip to school or the store, that is more than sufficient, even with a full bag on the back. Do not leave the battery outside in freezing temperatures, as this reduces its capacity over time. You can charge it from a standard wall outlet, so no separate setup is required.

Low step-through and braking

With an extended frame, a low step-through is convenient: when carrying luggage or a child on the back, you don't 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 an extended frame because the rear wheel hits a bump just as you have already ridden over it. The lights are permanently mounted on the bike and run on the main battery. When the bike is delivered, check the brake lever reach; you can adjust it in a few seconds.

Who is the Carlos Midtail Basic for?

For anyone who regularly carries a child or groceries, cannot accommodate a full longtail, and does not ride long distances. The maximum total weight is 140 kilos, including yourself 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 rotating components 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, so try riding one first. You can schedule a test ride at ten showrooms and compare the Midtail with the Compact. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 locations in the Netherlands. If ordered online, the bike will be delivered to your home ready to ride. You can arrange insurance when placing your order, and payment can be spread out. You can pay in full or in installments. Upon delivery, the bike will be assembled and adjusted at your door.

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