Royal Cargo Bike 3W Premium Anthracite at Fatbikeskopen.nl

Anthracite is the darkest version of the Royal Cargo Bike 3W Premium and makes the large front box appear more compact than the lighter colors. In practical terms, it is the color that shows rain streaks and road dirt the least. The equipment is the same: a Bafang mid-drive motor with 80 newton meters of torque, seven gears, four seats, a 220-kilogram load capacity, and a removable 630-watt-hour battery with Panasonic cells.

Difference between the Eco and the Royal Cargo Bike 3W Premium Plus

The Eco has a 45-newton-meter hub motor with eight gears. The Premium gets an 80-newton-meter mid-drive motor with seven gears. The Premium Plus adds belt drive and a continuously variable Enviolo hub. The difference between the Eco and Premium is primarily the motor: 45 newton meters versus an 80-newton-meter mid-drive motor. You notice that as soon as you set off fully loaded. The step up to the Plus is mainly about easier maintenance and being able to shift without pedaling. Hydraulic brakes occasionally need bleeding; otherwise, they require little attention. The lighting is permanently mounted on the electric bike and runs on the main battery.

Bafang mid-drive motor with 80 newton meters of torque

The mid-drive motor is located at the bottom bracket and transfers its power through the gears, making pedaling easier instead of pushing you from behind. Eighty newton meters is substantial, and you notice it when setting off with four children in the box or riding up a bridge. The motor's weight is low and centered, which contributes to a calm steering feel on a tricycle with a large box at the front. Small differences like these matter more the more often you use the bike. It may sound like a detail, but it adds up on your daily route. Assistance is provided through a torque sensor: it measures how hard you push on the pedals and adjusts the assistance accordingly, rather than simply engaging as soon as the pedals turn.

Four children and 220 kilograms

The box can accommodate four children, with a maximum total weight of 220 kilograms, including you and luggage. The box sits low between the two front wheels, so the weight is at the bottom rather than on top. Children can get in by themselves via the side, which is possible from around three years old without you having to lift them. The 630-watt-hour battery is removable and can be charged indoors while the bike remains outside.

Three wheels and brakes

A tricycle remains upright when you let go, even with four children inside. When loading, you do not need to keep one hand on the handlebars. What you give up is leaning into corners: you steer instead of leaning, which takes some attention during the first few rides. The hydraulic disc brakes are designed for a bike that can weigh close to 200 kilograms when loaded, so here they are not an extra but a necessity. The lights are permanently mounted on the bike and run on the main battery. When the bike is delivered, briefly check the brake lever reach; you can adjust it in a few seconds.

Who is this version for?

For families, childminders, and schools that transport several children and want a dark, low-maintenance colour. The recommended height is approximately 1.60 to 1.95 metres. Two points to note: there is no suspension, so the children will feel cobblestone streets, and a tricycle is wide. Measure your gate, shed door, and the passage to your storage area before ordering to avoid delivery problems. 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

Compare the Eco, Premium, and Premium Plus before choosing, because you only notice the difference in motor power when the bike is loaded. You can do this at ten showrooms, preferably with your children along for the test ride. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 locations in the Netherlands. If you order online, the bike will be delivered to your home ready to ride. Three-year warranty on the frame and one-year warranty on parts and the battery. You can pay in full or in instalments. On delivery, the bike is assembled and adjusted outside your door.

Also see: Royal cargo box bikes | cargo bikes | longtails | e-bikes