### The CycWagon: An Economical Cargo Bike with Promise, Yet Not Without Challenges
Cargo bicycles have become a favored option for individuals aiming to lessen their dependence on automobiles, particularly in city settings. They provide the capability to transport groceries, children, and various necessities, making them a sensible choice for everyday tasks. Nevertheless, the steep prices of many cargo bikes can deter potential buyers, often coming close to the cost of a decent used vehicle. Enter the CycWagon, a $1,500 cargo e-bike from Cycrown designed to provide a more budget-friendly alternative. However, akin to many economical products, the CycWagon presents its own range of issues.
#### Design and Construction: A Combination of Strengths and Weaknesses
The CycWagon is a long-tail cargo bike, a configuration that extends the frame beyond the seat to hold extra cargo or passengers. This design inherently involves certain compromises. The bike employs smaller wheels to maintain a low center of gravity, affecting its maneuverability. The prolonged frame demands greater stiffness, causing road irregularities to be transmitted directly to the rider. Still, Cycrown has implemented some solutions to alleviate these challenges. The bike is equipped with front suspension and broad tires that can be inflated to lower pressures, both of which assist in providing a smoother ride.
Despite these improvements, the CycWagon’s design contains several significant shortcomings. The cranks are set so low that the pedals touch the ground when turning, creating a safety issue that goes beyond minor inconvenience. Furthermore, the seat is unusually low, resulting in an uncomfortable riding posture, particularly when combined with foldable handlebars that seem ill-suited for a cargo bike. While the handlebars are adjustable, it can be difficult to establish a comfortable riding position.
#### Cargo Capability: Adequate but Imperfect
A key selling feature of the CycWagon is its cargo capacity. The bike is provided with a sizable metal basket at the rear and a smaller one at the front, facilitating the transport of groceries and other supplies. However, the rear basket elevates the bike’s center of gravity, which could pose stability issues when carrying heavier items. Cargo panniers, which distribute weight lower and on either side of the back wheel, would yield better stability, but the options provided by Cycrown do not match the basket’s capacity.
Additionally, the bike includes wooden panels that lend a vintage charm, but these had to be removed to make room for the rear basket. The footrests, also adorned with wood, were removed because their bolts interfered with the chain, particularly in the bike’s highest gear.
#### Battery Performance and Electronics: An Inconsistent Experience
The CycWagon comes with two batteries, theoretically extending its range to close to 200 kilometers (120 miles), which is ample for most urban commuting and tasks. However, the battery life indicator is highly unreliable, complicating the task of estimating how much power remains. This could potentially leave you in a difficult situation if not monitored closely.
On a positive note, the batteries are easily detachable for charging, which is convenient given the bike’s size. The display is bright and user-friendly, offering five levels of pedal assist. However, the variations between the assist levels are not very noticeable, limiting the bike’s adaptability.
#### Speed and Safety: Navigating a Legal Gray Area
A particularly concerning feature of the CycWagon is its speed capabilities. The bike is marketed as a Class 3 e-bike, meaning it can assist up to 28 mph (45 km/hr) while pedaling. However, the throttle enables the bike to surpass the Class 2 limit of 20 mph (32 km/hr) without pedaling, which does not comply with U.S. regulations. Even more troubling is the throttle’s ability to remain activated after being released, allowing the bike to keep accelerating without any rider input.
While this may be convenient for maintaining traffic speed, it presents a serious safety issue and is likely unlawful in various regions. Moreover, the bike’s gear ratios make it challenging to achieve the Class 3 speed limit solely through pedaling. Even in the highest gear, reaching 20 mph requires spinning the pedals at a rate that is not sustainable, at which point the torque sensor cuts off the assist.
#### Conclusion: An Economical Option with Major Considerations
The CycWagon serves as an affordable entry into the realm of cargo e-bikes, though it comes with considerable drawbacks. While it can transport a reasonable amount of cargo and features advanced components like a torque sensor, its design imperfections and potential legal complications make it a less-than-optimal pick for numerous riders. The bike’s attractive price tag is enticing, but it’s evident that you receive what you pay for.
If you’re seeking an economical cargo bike and are prepared to
