Royal Cargo Bike 2W Premium Plus at Fatbikeskopen.nl

The Royal Cargo Bike 2W Premium Plus is Royal Cargo Bike’s best-equipped two-wheel cargo bike: a Bafang mid-drive motor with 80 newton-metres of torque, belt drive and an internally geared hub with continuously variable gearing. Two wheels, so it steers like a regular bicycle and is narrower than a three-wheeler. Room for three children, a 220-kilogram load capacity and a 630-watt-hour battery with Panasonic cells. 20-inch wheel at the front, 26-inch at the rear.

Difference from the 2W Premium

The Plus adds two features: belt drive instead of a chain and a continuously variable hub instead of seven fixed gears. Both are about maintenance and convenience. A belt does not need lubricating and does not rust, and with a continuously variable hub you can shift even when stationary—which is exactly what you need with a loaded cargo bike at a traffic light. The motor and load capacity are the same on both models. The hydraulic brakes need bleeding occasionally; otherwise, they require little maintenance. The lighting is permanently mounted on the electric bike and runs on the main battery.

Two wheels or three

A two-wheel cargo bike steers the way you are used to: you lean into the turn, and it is narrower than a three-wheeler, so you can get through a standard gate and along a narrow cycle path. A three-wheeler, on the other hand, stays upright when you let go, which is more convenient when loading children. If you are choosing based on steering feel and width, this is the logical choice. If you want stability when stationary, choose the three-wheeler version. Small differences like these matter more the more often you use the bike. That may sound like a minor detail, but it adds up on your daily route.

Three children and 220 kilograms

The box fits three children, and the maximum total weight is 220 kilograms, including yourself and luggage. The box is made of weather-resistant plastic and can be rinsed out. Because the front wheel is 20 inches and the rear wheel is 26 inches, the box sits low to the ground: children can get in more easily, and the centre of gravity remains low, making the bike steer more calmly once there is weight in it.

Range and braking

The 630 Wh battery with Panasonic cells is rated for approximately 90 kilometers, measured without a load on flat terrain. With three children in it, you will get considerably less, although it remains more than sufficient for the daily school run. Hydraulic disc brakes are a must on a bike that can weigh close to 200 kilograms when loaded: you want to be able to stop in a controlled manner without using your entire hand, especially in the rain. The stated range is always a test value, so expect somewhat less in practice. Do not leave the battery outside in freezing temperatures, as this will reduce its capacity over time. The motor uses a torque sensor, so the assistance follows your own pedaling force and starts smoothly when pulling away.

Who is the Royal Cargo Bike 2W Premium Plus for?

For families transporting up to three children who want a familiar steering feel and as little drivetrain maintenance as possible. The recommended rider height is approximately 1.60 to 1.95 meters. Things to bear in mind: it has no suspension, so the children will feel every bump on cobblestone streets, and at 59 kilograms, you will want to store it on the ground floor. Measure your gate and shed door beforehand. Check the brake lever reach on delivery; you can adjust it in a few seconds. Brake pads and discs use standard sizes, so they can be replaced at any service center.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

A cargo bike with weight at the front steers differently from a regular bike, even on two wheels. Schedule a test ride at one of the ten showrooms, preferably with your children in it. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 locations in the Netherlands. When ordered online, the bike will be delivered to your home ready to ride. Three-year warranty on the frame, one year on the components and battery. You can pay in full or in installments. Upon delivery, the bike will be assembled and adjusted outside your door.

See also: Royal cargo bike cargo bikes | cargo bikes | longtails | e-bikes