White Royal Cargo Bike 2W Premium Plus at Fatbikeskopen.nl

This version of the Royal Cargo Bike 2W Premium Plus is white and has a high step-through frame instead of a low-step frame. That frame choice is the main decision: a closed frame is stiffer, which you notice on a long bike with weight at the front. Everything else is the same: a Bafang mid-drive motor with 80 newton metres of torque, belt drive, a continuously variable hub, space for three children, and a 220-kilogram load capacity.

High step-through on a cargo bike

A closed frame with a top tube is stiffer than a low-step frame, and on a long cargo bike with weight at the front, you notice that as a calmer, more direct steering feel. The trade-off is that you have to swing your leg over the frame, which is more difficult when there are children in the box and you want to get on quickly. If you often get on and off at school or shops, the low step-through is more practical. Small differences like this become more important the more often you use the electric bike.

Difference from the 2W Premium

The Plus adds belt drive and a continuously variable hub, while the Premium has a chain and seven fixed gears. Both improve maintenance and convenience: a belt does not need lubricating and does not rust, and with a continuously variable hub you can shift even while stationary. On a loaded cargo bike at a traffic light, that is exactly when you need it. The motor and load capacity are the same on both versions. Hydraulic brakes occasionally need bleeding; otherwise, they require little maintenance. The lights are permanently mounted on the bike and run on the main battery.

Three children and 220 kilograms

The box can hold three children, with 220 kilograms as the maximum total weight, including you 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 stays low, making the bike steer more steadily once it is carrying weight.

Range of the Royal Cargo Bike 2W Premium Plus

The 630-watt-hour battery with Panasonic cells has a stated range of around 90 kilometres, measured without a load on flat terrain. With three children on board, you will get considerably less, although it remains more than sufficient for the daily school run. Hydraulic disc brakes are essential on a bike that can weigh close to 200 kilos when loaded: being able to stop in a controlled manner without using your entire hand is no luxury when children are riding up front. A battery lasts longer if you do not routinely run it completely flat and charge it indoors during winter. The stated range is always a test value, so expect somewhat less in practice. The motor uses a torque sensor, so the assistance follows your own pedalling force and starts smoothly when pulling away.

Who is this version for?

For families transporting up to three children, who prefer a stiffer frame and want a light colour that makes the box look less imposing. The recommended height is approximately 1.60 to 1.95 metres. Pay attention to three things: there is no suspension, so the children will feel cobblestone streets; the bike weighs 59 kilos empty, so store it on the ground floor; and a white box needs washing more often than a dark one. If you are unsure about the size, measure your inside leg and compare it with the stated measurements. Anyone who rides it daily will notice these choices sooner than someone who only takes an occasional ride.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

Compare the high and low step-through versions before choosing, because you notice the difference at every stop. You can do that at ten showrooms and book a test ride, preferably with your children on board. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 service points in the Netherlands. When ordered online, the bike will be delivered to your home ready to ride. Three years’ warranty on the frame and one year on the components and battery. On delivery, the bike is assembled and adjusted outside your door. After delivery, you have fourteen days to take a test ride.

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