Cargo & Weight Distribution
Where you put weight on your e-bike matters as much as how much you carry. Poor distribution affects handling, stability, and safety. Learn to optimize your cargo setup with these interactive tools.
1. Weight Distribution Optimizer
The rule: Aim for 40/60 front/rear weight distribution. Too much front weight makes steering sluggish. Too much rear weight causes wheel lift and poor traction.
👇 Balance your load: Adjust cargo weights to see stability and handling scores.
⚖️Weight Distribution Calculator
⚖️ Balance: Great balance! Your weight distribution is safe and stable.
⚖️ Pro Tip: Place heavy items low and centered. Keep front load under 10kg for best handling. Use panniers closer to the axle rather than on racks far behind.
2. Panniers vs Trailer Comparison
The choice: Panniers integrate with your bike (better handling, easier parking). Trailers haul more weight (up to 80kg) but add aerodynamic drag and reduce maneuverability.
👇 Compare options: Set your cargo weight and see which solution works best.
📦Panniers vs Trailer
📦 Recommendation: Panniers are great for up to 40kg. Better handling and easier parking, but limited capacity.
📦 Decision Guide: Under 25kg? Panniers win. 25-40kg? Panniers still work but get heavy. Over 40kg? Trailer time. Also consider: do you need to detach cargo often?
Quick FAQ
How does cargo affect range?
Every 10kg of cargo reduces range by about 5-8%. This is from both the weight itself and aerodynamic drag. Keep loads as low and streamlined as possible.
Can I put a child seat on my e-bike?
Yes, but check your bike's weight limit. Rear seats (up to 22kg) are most common. Front seats (up to 15kg) give better weight distribution but require a sturdy frame. Always use proper mounting hardware!
What's safer for heavy loads: cargo bike or trailer?
Cargo bikes (2-3 wheels) are more stable for very heavy loads. Trailers work great up to their weight limit. Regular e-bikes with panniers? Keep it under 40kg total for safety.
Do I need special tires for hauling cargo?
Not necessarily, but increase tire pressure by 5-10 PSI when loaded. Wider tires (38mm+) handle weight better. Check your rim's max weight rating too!
The Bottom Line
Smart cargo management makes e-bikes practical for serious hauling:
- ⚖️Balance: Aim for 40/60 front/rear distribution
- ⬇️Low & Centered: Keep heavy items close to the frame
- 🎒Panniers: Best for under 40kg, great handling
- 🚚Trailers: For 40-80kg loads, more versatile
With proper cargo setup, your e-bike can replace a car for groceries, commuting with gear, and even small moves!
Calculate Your Range
Account for your cargo weight! Use our E-Bike Range Calculator to see how different loads affect your range.
Also check out: Range Physics | Tire Optimization