The New Utility Bikes
Most utility bike have similar basic feature sets: a longer body extended backward; a large, sturdy rack for hanging cargo carriers; a low center of gravity (which makes these bikes handle better loaded than an upright bike with panniers); extra heavy frame and wheelset. Beyond the basics, the features can vary widely, as do the prices. Surprisingly, these bikes are not that difficult to pedal, even uphill. Of course, you're not going to set any speed records, either.
And, as an added bonus, there's no reason these couldn't make decent commuting bikes as well.
Surly Big Dummy
This longtail bike is built around the Xtracycle modular rack system and has an upper weight limit (rider and cargo) of 400 pounds. Shown with Xtracycle V-rack bags and Snapdeck, the Big Dummy also accepts other components like Wideloader platforms. The Xtracycle Free Radical System can be used to convert a standard bike to longtail, lengthening the frame and moving the rear wheel back.
RANS Hammer Truck
The new RANS longtail features their popular crank forward design and has a carrying capacity of 525 pounds.
Kona Ute
The Kona Ute is another entry from a major manufacturer, capable of carrying four panniers or two small passengers (Kona grocery panniers are an option). The cargo rack is built right into the frame, which makes it super solid.
Yuba Mundo
Yuba is a German company which specializes in cargo bikes. The Mundo was originally designed as primary transportation for third world countries, and excels at carrying awkward loads. Like the other bikes in this category, you can think of it as a human powered pickup truck!
Bilenky Cargo Bike
Bilenky presents a different concept, with front mounted cargo platform. This company's cargo bikes are generally used as workbikes, but the idea's the same - just fewer frills.
Gary Fisher El Ranchero
This is a Trek concept bike designed to fit their "One World - Two Wheels" program. The El Ranchero is not a tandem - but it provides a seat, handle bars and footpegs for a small passenger. In addition, there is room for at least four bags of groceries and three bags of kitty litter. The rack and bags fold up when empty for a norrower profile in the garage.
Xtracycle Radish
The Xtracycle Radish is the company's own popular extension system built on their own frame. It accommodates any of the luggage systems offered by Xtracycle: the Cargo Van Kit, the Family Van Kit, the Longtail Kit, the Adventure Kit, the Carry It All Kit or the Pannier Kit.
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