It's a mission to find good help these days. By that overused sentimentality, I mean it's exhausting to find your best bikes for food delivery. Hark! I helped.
Food deliveries are becoming a big part of the restaurant industry. It's crucial to find a bike that's affordable now, will continue to be affordable to use and maintain, is fast, reliable, and not taxing to the rider. It's a task as mixed up as my previous sentence.
The best bikes for food delivery are:
- Cero One
- Mongoose Envoy
- Riese & Müller Load 75
- 2021 Tern GSD S10 LX
- Blix Packa Genie
- Tern Quick Haul D8
- Surly Big Easy
- Yuba Boda Boda
With this list, you've got your hands in the door to make significant money decisions. The actual protein is in the generous spread below. So, wash your hands and dive into your heart's and business' cholesterol fulfillment. Yes, the paragraph makes sense.
I'm a geek for this. I need a life besides cycling, researching, and trying to find the best bikes for every scenario. There's a market for everything, so here I am. I've taken pointers from experts and first-hand reviewers such as bikeradar, wired, the-verge, etc.
8 Best Cargo Bikes For Food Delivery
A cargo bike's main objective is to haul large loads with as little effort from the rider as possible. That's why electric cargo bikes are the natural choice when looking for a bike to do food deliveries.
An excellent electric cargo bike should have at least a battery that provides good range, a motor with ample torque to bus it up hills when laden, and plenty of carrying capacity. I did add a non-electric option for the folks with thighs of steel.
1. Cero One
The Cero One is built and marketed as the do-all electric bike, and a single look at the silken, color-coated 6061-T6 aluminum frame validates a portion of that. The One has a maximum capacity of 300 pounds, with a rack-load capacity of 77 pounds. Each modular rack can only take a maximum of 55 pounds.
The 68.3-inch length of the bike is efficiently used, and the rear and front rack don't completely swallow the mini-van simplicity of this bike. Cero also managed to get a range of around 105 miles on a Shimano E8010, 504 Wh battery. It also helps that the packed battery on the downtube is removable for overnight charging.
Cero didn't shy away from using commendable components. The combination of the Shimano Steps E6100, 60 Nm torque motor, and the Shimano Inter-5E, Gates CDX belt drive can bring it.
The 2018 motor might be lapped by newer motors, especially the innovative Bosch Cargo line motors, but it is still a powerful one. Cero makes a good call by making the motor a mid-drive motor, which helps better utilize its capabilities.
Although the tig welding used on the frame adds much more rigidity and precision to the welds, its presence on the joints is slightly jarring. Also, the bike looks like the weird mini-van of bikes and is not aesthetically pleasing. The bike also doesn't have Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which we all love for making gear shifting jazz-smooth.
All in all, I do love this bike for its massive appeal as both a daily commuter and as a worthy food delivery machine. The lamp and option to ask for a more prominent front basket at less than $3000 is also a welcomed bonus.
2. Mongoose Envoy
A cargo bike that doesn't veer too much away from the eye-pleasing hybrid bike style. I had to include the Mongoose Envoy as a nod to the ancient times of food deliveries. The bike has an extended 26-inch Tectonic T1 aluminum frame and ample cargo attachments for your food-towing requirements.
The lifeblood of the bike is the cables that vein inside a strong cargo frame. Although the cables' internal routing isn't fully integrated, the clutter of cables in front of the Envoy's headset gives it a quaint aesthetic.
The fork is solid hi-tensile steel that gives a sense of security even though it breaks down as you realize that the wheel isn't connected with a thru-axle. The Mongoose aluminum mechanical disc brakes provide the necessary stopping power, although they do suffer from the shared plight of all mechanical disk brakes: wet and wild weather.
Kitted with a mostly Shimano Acera/ Altus groupset, gearing is buttery, reliable, and performs exceptionally well despite entry-level Shimano components. You can rest assured that if you have the stamina, the 8-speed Sunrace 11-34t rear cog coupled with the Prowheel 42/32/22t crank will give you adequate range.
Although this longtail bike's inviting looks, it is a manual cycle that can quickly get tiring because of the limited 8-speed skimping. The Envoy also struggles to deliver affordability perched on its $1,049.99 price branch.
3. Riese & Müller Load 75
With the Load 75 Vario HS capable of going up to 28 mph, The Load 75 will get you where you need to be with as much cargo as you need to haul. Well, there is a 660-pound load capacity. I did choose to review the Load 75 Touring because of its more reasonable price for the specs.
The improved and smaller Bosch PowerPack 500 Performance is a 500Wh (you can get an upgrade to two 500Wh batteries for an additional $1,166–yikes) battery dynamite because Bosch always brings it. Always.
The 4th generation Bosch Cargo Line cruiser is made to carry large loads without sacrificing performance. The integrated Intuvia display is also Bosch, and it is intuitive to get the hang of. It also helps that there's Tektro TRP C 2.3 disc brake, bringing TRP's decades of experience and performance.
Okay, let's be honest now. The Load 75 isn't the best doll out there. The wheelbarrow aesthetics won't be getting any dates, but the vast, 29,52-inch frontloader will deliver many home date meals for the whole neighborhood.
Regarding drawbacks, all the versions of this hauler are much more expensive than the Cero One, starting at a whopping $9000. The cheaper versions can also only max out at 20 mph, don't have automatic downshifting, and in general, this whole Riese & Müller line takes time to master because of that leading front tire.
Still, if you can get the bike secondhand or heaving out the massive price, then the Load 75 is worth your consideration. The extraordinary comfort of the bike and the ability to accessorize it makes this a great electric bike contender.
4. 2021 Tern GSD S10 LX
I tried, but I couldn't get away without mentioning at least one cargo bike from Tern. The Tern GSD S10 LX is one of the best, if not best, cargo bikes the company has had to offer.
The outfitted Bosch Cargo Line motor alone is worth the mention. Although Bosch's motors are usually low specced on paper, you can rest assured that the peak 85 Nm torque is well utilized.
The bike's pushing power does seem to stagger somewhat going uphill with some load on the bike's long tail. You won't feel like you're putting in a workout.
You might also be tempted to call out the bike for not having a throttle, but that allows it to be categorized as a Class 1 bike, allowing it to ride uncontested along bike lanes. That alone should slash delivery times considerably.
The 10-speed Shimano Deore left me wanting a bike that costs a solid $6,299. Although not near as welcomed as a Shimano Tiagra groupset, the Deore components don't much detract from the reliable practicality of the ride.
The 11-36t Shimano cassette doesn't provide the lowest gearing, but it is always smooth gearing. I did find it difficult to find testers that were able to press on that 20 mph over steep or flat roads. I only saw the 20 mph on downhill feedback, and most riders could hit 15 plus mph in fairly unchallenging transits.
The bike's Atlas Lockstand is a sturdy kickstand and a nifty safety lock with a remote unlock. The rear rack can support up to 220 pounds, which should be more than enough on a delivery run to multiple customers.
The ultra-wide, 700-lumen Ignis headlight provides ample illumination, and the rear brake light is always on for visibility. The integrated 6061 aluminum fenders are keeping you dry and not going anywhere.
The bike does come at a lower price if you opt for the single Bosch 500 Wh battery but makes a mockery of the LX portion of the GSD S10. The Bosch dual battery system is the way to go and provides a good 63 to 128 miles. The range varies once you start pushing the Turbo mode on the bike while hauling some deliveries up hilly streets.
The Bosch Purion display does a stellar job of showing the assistance modes and the battery percentage. You can also keep the batteries charged between deliveries with their 4 A, 100 to 240 V charger.
At 74 pounds, the bike isn't Tern's lightest offering, but it does manage to incorporate some of the company's folding properties. Although the suggested rider height is between 59.1 inches to 76.8 inches, it does stay true to being a one-size-fits-all steed.
The easily adjustable stem and saddle sitting on the suspension seat post were quick to quash my natural skepticism. The bike's 6061 aluminum frame and Chromoly fork with custom Suntour suspension provide a secure body that will faithfully endure the rigors of food delivery.
5. Blix Packa Genie
The Blix Packa Genie proves that not all electric cargo bikes need to be exuberantly priced. The Packa Genie comes with either a single 614 Wh battery or a dual 1,228 Wh battery.
The dual setup is the one most people, including myself, advise because you get extra mileage for only $300. Including the dual-battery setup will still only see you putting down $2,299, which is pennies compared to some big brand e-cargo bikes I've had experience with.
Although I prefer mid-drive motors, the rear hub 750 W Shengyi direct drive motor puts up a fair fight. You'll mostly be getting about 500 W from the motor during your rides over reasonably flat roads. The motor's 40 Nm sits at the lower end of assistance, especially up those demanding hills.
But, the Packa Genie's 7-speed Shimano 14-34t cassette coupled with a 48t crankset does its best to complement the motor to make your climbs less demanding.
The Bengal hydraulic disc brakes aren't Shimano or Tektro, but they provide enough stopping power to not fear for your life and nourishing cargo.
The 12 magnetic cadence sensors do a super job at giving you some reasonable motor assistance, even pedaling an easier gear. The Shimano Acera derailleur also provides unnoticeable transitioning, precisely what you want.
I was also pleasantly surprised to find a throttle on the Packa Genie. Even though you don't quite get the full-throttle benefits, the option does a commendable job of providing unworked power when you desire it.
The 80-ish miles you get from the two batteries should be more than enough for a couple of deliveries because the batteries have a typical 6-hour charging time. The bike also comes fully equipped with rear brake light, headlight, and some necessary PVC fenders.
The 24-inch wheels also don't struggle to roll, with a front rack capable of hauling 50 pounds and a rear rack capable of taking even more.
The Packa Genie will grant most of your wishes, but not all. It's the cost-saving components that do the bike in a bit. In every conceivable universe I use that Aladdin baiting.
6. Tern Quick Haul D8
You might have to wait a bit for the Tern Quick Haul D8 because it's still fresh from Tern's Taiwanese oven. I couldn't find a test unit or go over reviews of people I've had the opportunity to put the bike on the hard road properly.
Unlike the more premium GSD and HSD, the Quick Haul line is meant to introduce curiously but pocket-shy spectators into the e-cargo world.
The Quick Haul D8 is one of the first in this more affordable line, $2,999, and Tern has made sure to treacle some of their heartier components that are now staples in their premium, as mentioned earlier lines.
First, the Quick Haul D8 is an e-cargo bike on a diet with its 50.3-pound figure. It's no light bike by any stretch but trusts me when I say that they don't make electric cargo bikes light—you wouldn't want to be hauling 50 or so pounds on an 18-pound road bike.
The Quick Haul D8 (D8 from henceforth) retains Tern's folding capabilities and universal fit status. The suggested rider height is 63 to 76.3 inches, and the stem and saddle can be quickly and easily adjusted.
The D8's patented design frame is made from 6061 aluminum with a solid steel fork. Unlike with GSD, you won't find suspension here. Which would've also been the first thing I would've let go to cut costs.
A rigid frame means less maintenance for the rider anyways. Similar to the entry HSD, the D8 comes brandishing a Bosch Active Line Plus. The 50 Nm shouldn't be much of an issue considering what the rest of Active Line has shown consumers so far.
You might have to put in a little extra elbow grease to haul up hills, but you'll generally receive more than enough assistance on the day-to-day demand.
The Bosch Purion display we already know; it's a bit archaic with its Casio-watch screen, but it's always been reliable for me and other trusted testers. It'll display all the metrics you need and allow you to toggle between the three assistance modes from the motor.
The Bosch PowerPack 400 battery is probably the most significant area you'll begin experiencing the economy. Most do-well electric bikes running this battery duly upgraded to the Bosch PowerPack 500.
The trailing number is the battery's power rating. This 400 Wh battery that the D8 is currently set to ship with is estimated to give you about 33.6 to 65.2 miles.
From experience, I'd expect to get around 20 to 25 miles even if you are sitting primarily on the Eco mode. The different road gradation and toggling between modes quickly munch into the lab estimate.
Even though I know the other area that saw funding cut is the drivetrain, 8-speed Shimano Altus 11-34t cassette with that matching-grade trigger shifter shouldn't disappoint.
Although people say quality starts with Shimano Deore, I haven't experienced too much grief with the bottom-of-the-barrel Tourney, Acera, Altus, and Alivio. The bike will stay true to brand and ship with 20-inch Schwalbe Big Apple tires which have proven quite comfortable.
To top it all, the D8 has a maximum vehicle weight of 330.7 pounds which should be more than enough once you equate the actual weight of the bike, accessories, and rider. The rear rack can carry 110 pounds, with the front bringing in about 44 pounds.
7. Surly Big Easy
The Surly Big Easy makes hauling huge loads effortlessly, and the $5,000 asking price flaunts just that. The Cane Creek ViscoSet brings some makes handling the Big Easy around town buttery and also reduces the vibrations that fatigue your arms.
The Surly ExtraTerrestrial 26x2.5" tires also add to the road-smoothing appeal of the Big Easy. Comfort isn't the only thing that sets the Big Easy apart, as the ability to equip two Bosch PowerPack 500 batteries is often a huge draw.
Although buying that extra 500Wh Bosch battery will set you back around $800. You should still be able to easily manage upwards of 25 to 30 miles with challenging riding in mind.
The 250 W Bosch Performance CX motor isn't the latest or best on the market, but it still brings the sugar when needed. You also won't be left destitute and needing gears with SunRace CSMS7 11-42t cogs. Even though it's not the lowest or highest spread, it's plenty paired with that Bosch motor.
Surly also played the right card when they added the four-piston Tektro Orion HD-M745 hydraulic brakes. These babies continue to impress me with their reliability in most weather conditions.
You'll be happy to have reliability if you test the Big Easy's 200 load capacity. Tektro is quickly equalizing with Shimano, and I'm here for it.
The 11-speed SRAM NX almost made me forget that the Big Easy has no throttle option. It doesn't, but it means that the bike sits comfortably in the Class 1 category and leaves you with no legal contention in being able to ride in the bike lanes.
8. Yuba Boda Boda
Yuba's Boda Boda did come up for one of my other reviews, and that wasn't only because of the name. The Boda Boda's two frame styles cater to riders between 4.9 feet to 6.5 feet. The $3,800 base price is not great, but maybe generous height capacity redeems it a bit?
Some included accessories like the fenders, chain guards, and front and rear lights, which are things that should stop being labeled as accessories and be a given.
Fortunately, you don't need to cough up extra money to utilize the 220-pound load capacity of the Boda Boda if you'll be using it for food deliveries. There's a solid rear rack with side loaders, and adding products for delivery shouldn't make the bike feel unwieldily.
The 26-inch tires also make the bike more familiar to an adult than Tern's 20-inch tires. The aluminum frame is also rock-solid enough to last you many rigorous years without fault. The dependability of the frame is only exceeded by the 250 W Shimano Steps e6100 motor.
The combination of the automatic downshifting, 50 Nm torque, and levels of assistance make for a faithful delivery companion. Although the torque remains dubious, I haven't found a tester that's experienced noteworthy grief. I would also be amiss if I didn't mention the 9-speed Shimano Altus shifter and powerful Tektro Vela hydraulic disc brakes.
The 418 Wh battery does way more than it should and delivers anywhere from 30 to 60 miles. I would have thought crazy not long ago for such a humble-sized battery.
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