Ruff Cycles' innovative urban e-cargo bike
In the heart of Germany, a particular creation of metal, rubber and attitude is taking the urban landscape by storm. Enter the Cargo Buddy, a beast of a cargo ebike birthed by Ruff Cycles. Known for their moped-style and cruiser ebikes, Ruff Cycles has designed a bicycle that's more than a ride, it's a declaration of your city-slicker spirit.
With a rebellious spirit, the Cargo Buddy sports fat, 4-inch-wide tires hugged by 20-inch double-wall aluminum rims. This isn't just for show, mind you. It's a promise of stability, of an unfaltering ride, even when the city streets show no mercy. And let's not forget about the tubular steel frame – powder-coated and coupled with a moto-style seat that adds just the right amount of comfort to your adventurous ride.
The heart of the Cargo Buddy is powered by a Bosch Performance CX mid-drive motor, delivering a whopping 85 Nm of torque. Feel the breeze as you zip through the streets with pedal-assist reaching speeds up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph). And, with a Shimano Altus 7-speed gearset, you've got the flexibility to take on any urban challenge.
Running out of juice? Never worry, the removable 500-Wh battery, snugly fitted under your seat, will keep you rolling. Though there's no range estimation available yet, it's safe to say that Ruff Cycles won't let you down.
Perfectly inclusive, this steed can accommodate riders from 1.5 m (4.9 ft) to 1.95 m (6.4 ft) in height. It's been thoughtfully designed to allow you to easily touch the ground from a seated position, a small but significant detail that just makes your journey more comfortable.
Though its total length of 2.35 m (7.7 ft) might seem substantial, it's still a breeze to park, and at 47 kg (103 lb), it's a solid machine. Yet, it's not just about carrying you. This bad boy can haul up to 80 kg (176 lb) of cargo in its 70 x 60 x 45 cm (27.5 x 23.6 x 17.7 in) box. It even has a modular rack system for additional accessories such as a rain cover or a sturdy tray, just in case you need it.
Safety hasn't been overlooked either. Hydraulic disc brakes ensure you have the stopping power needed in the urban jungle. Full fenders keep you clean, and the Supernova LED headlight and tail-light ensures you're seen, day or night.
Now, let's talk about the price. The Cargo Buddy is available for pre-order for €5,999 (about US$6,500). Yes, it's a bit of a hefty price tag, but for the style, functionality, and eco-friendly transportation it offers, it could very well be worth it for the urban dwellers seeking an alternative, efficient mode of transport.
In a nutshell, the Cargo Buddy is a charismatic, versatile and well-designed city companion. It's more than just a cargo bike – it's a lifestyle choice, a declaration of freedom, an ode to the city and the spirit of exploration. Whether you're commuting, shopping, or just out exploring the labyrinth of city streets, the Cargo Buddy might just be your perfect partner in crime. As Ruff Cycles themselves say, it's a testament to the evolving city and the needs of its inhabitants.
So, here's to new urban adventures and the freedom to roam. Happy cycling, folks.
Pros:
- Robust and Stylish Design: The Cargo Buddy boasts a powder-coated tubular steel frame, banana seating, and sporty handlebars, striking the perfect balance between style and durability.
- Strong Motor: Equipped with a Bosch Performance CX mid-drive motor, the Cargo Buddy offers impressive torque for hauling heavy cargo, ensuring that your ride is smooth and powerful.
- Versatile Gearset: The Shimano Altus 7-speed gearset provides flexibility for varying city terrains, allowing for a comfortable and customizable riding experience.
- Cargo Capability: With the ability to haul up to 80 kg of cargo, it's a convenient alternative for shopping trips or running errands around the city.
- Inclusive Design: Designed to accommodate a range of rider heights and allows the rider to easily touch the ground from a seated position.
- Safety Features: Comes with hydraulic disc brakes, full fenders, and Supernova LED lights for improved safety and visibility.
Cons:
- High Price: Priced at €5,999 (about US$6,500), the Cargo Buddy comes with a hefty price tag, potentially making it a less viable option for those on a tighter budget.
- Weight: At 47 kg (103 lbs), the Cargo Buddy is considerably heavy. While this could add to its stability, it might also make it challenging to handle, especially when not in use.
- Lengthy and Bulky: Measuring 2.35 m in length, it could prove to be a bit too bulky for some users, particularly in densely populated city areas where space is at a premium.
- Battery Range: As of now, there are no specific range estimates given for the removable 500-Wh battery. This lack of information could lead to potential uncertainty about the bike's performance on longer trips.
- Limited Speed: The pedal-assist speed caps at 25 km/h (15.5 mph), which might not be fast enough for some users who are used to faster e-bikes or motorcycles.
- Availability: Currently only available for pre-order with first deliveries expected to start from Q1 2024, the long wait could be a potential downside for those who want an immediate solution.
$6,500
