Xtracycle Bikes Review - Best Bike Brands

When it comes to cargo bikes, few brands have had the same cultural impact as Xtracycle. Long before cargo e-bikes became trendy among urban families, delivery workers, and car-replacement seekers, Xtracycle was pushing the boundaries of what bicycles could do.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore Xtracycle’s history, current lineup, design philosophy, performance, pros and cons, and how they compare to other cargo e-bike brands like Rad Power, Tern, and Yuba. If you’re considering a cargo e-bike for daily life, Xtracycle remains one of the most trusted names.

A Brief History of Xtracycle

Founded in the late 1990s by Ross Evans, Xtracycle started with one radical idea: extend a regular bike frame with a kit to carry more cargo and more people. This “longtail” cargo bike concept revolutionized the category, spawning dozens of imitators and eventually shaping how families and commuters think about replacing cars with bikes.

Over the years, Xtracycle transitioned from retrofit kits to purpose-built frames, then to electric-assist models that made hauling loads more accessible to everyone. Today, the brand is known as a premium cargo bike builder, focused on quality, safety, and rider experience.

What Makes Xtracycle Unique

Longtail Geometry – Unlike front-loader cargo bikes (like Urban Arrow), Xtracycle sticks to its longtail DNA. This makes their bikes ride more like “regular” bicycles while still offering extended carrying capacity.
Family-Centric Design – From child seats to cargo bags and running boards, their bikes are designed to comfortably carry kids, groceries, or gear.
Premium Electric Systems – Xtracycle uses Bosch mid-drive motors, known for smooth power delivery, reliability, and global service availability.
Build Quality – These are not budget bikes. Frames, components, and accessories are built to last, reflecting their higher price point.
Car Replacement Philosophy – Xtracycle markets itself less as “fun leisure cycling” and more as a true car replacement tool for urban and suburban riders.

Xtracycle E-Bike Lineup (2025)

1. Xtracycle Swoop

Shop: Xtracycle Official Site

Style: Step-through longtail cargo e-bike
Motor: Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive, 85Nm torque
Battery: 500Wh (dual battery upgrade available for 1000Wh)
Cargo capacity: 400 lbs (including rider)
Why it’s popular: The Swoop’s low step-through design makes it easy for smaller riders or parents to hop on and off, even with kids on the back. It balances comfort with utility.

2. Xtracycle RFA (“Ready For Anything”)

Shop: Xtracycle RFA

Style: Modular utility bike (shorter than a full longtail)
Motor: Bosch Performance Line mid-drive
Battery: 500Wh, with dual option
Cargo capacity: ~350 lbs
Why it’s popular: The RFA is a “compact cargo bike”, designed for tighter urban spaces. It can carry kids, but it also doubles as a sporty commuter.

3. Xtracycle Stoker

Shop: Xtracycle Stoker

Style: Adventure-ready longtail
Motor: Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive
Battery: Dual-battery capable
Cargo capacity: 400+ lbs
Why it’s popular: Built for more rugged terrain and adventurous riders who want cargo capability off the beaten path.

Ride Experience

Riding an Xtracycle feels noticeably different from budget cargo bikes like the RadWagon 5:

Smooth Power Delivery: The Bosch mid-drive motors provide torque-based pedal assist, which feels natural and powerful on hills.
Stable Handling: Despite their length, the longtail geometry is well-balanced and rides more like a traditional bike than front-loaders.
Cargo Confidence: Whether you’re carrying kids or groceries, the integrated racks, footrests, and accessories make the experience safe and intuitive.

The trade-off? Weight. Fully outfitted with accessories, Xtracycle bikes often exceed 70 lbs. You won’t be tossing them over your shoulder to carry upstairs.

Accessories & Family Options

Xtracycle’s accessory ecosystem is one of its strengths:

Hooptie rails for keeping kids safe on the back
Cargo bags that expand for groceries or gear
Running boards for passengers’ feet
Child seat compatibility with brands like Thule Yepp

This ecosystem makes their bikes true minivan replacements on two wheels.

How Xtracycle Compares to Other Cargo Brands

Rad Power RadWagon 5: Much cheaper (~$1,999 vs. $4,000+), but uses hub motors and lower-spec parts. Great for budget-conscious families, but less refined. Read our Rad Power Review
Yuba Spicy Curry: Another longtail with Bosch motors, very comparable to Xtracycle. Slightly different geometry, but both are top-tier options.
Tern GSD: Compact longtail with Bosch motors, easier to store and transport. Tern is known for folding and modularity, while Xtracycle focuses on full-size hauling.
Lectric XPedition: Budget-friendly cargo e-bike (~$1,399), hub-motor powered, great value but lacks the premium feel of Xtracycle. Read our Lectric Review

Pros and Cons of Xtracycle

Pros

Proven pioneer in cargo bikes
Bosch mid-drive systems = reliable + global service
High build quality and safety focus
Extensive accessories for families
True car-replacement utility

Cons

Expensive (most models start around $4,000)
Heavy, especially with dual batteries and accessories
Overkill for casual riders who just want light utility
Longtail bikes can be harder to store in small apartments

Who Should Buy an Xtracycle?

Great fit for:

Families replacing a second car
Riders with hills or heavy loads (Bosch mid-drive shines here)
Daily commuters with kids or cargo
Eco-conscious urban/suburban households

Not ideal for:

Riders on tight budgets (consider RadWagon or Lectric XPedition)
Apartment dwellers with limited storage
Recreational riders who don’t need heavy hauling capacity

Pricing & Value

Xtracycle bikes sit firmly in the premium category:

Starting around $4,000 for entry builds
$6,000+ fully outfitted with dual batteries and accessories

Compared to cars, it’s still a bargain. Compared to budget e-bikes, the sticker shock is real. You’re paying for Bosch reliability, frame durability, and safety features.

Bottom Line: Is Xtracycle Worth It?

If your goal is to replace a car with a bike, Xtracycle is one of the best investments you can make. The brand’s pioneering history, premium builds, and family-first accessories make them stand out in the cargo bike world.

Yes, you’ll pay more than you would for a RadWagon or Lectric XPedition. But for many households, the reliability, ride quality, and long-term durability make it worth every penny.

–> Compare Xtracycle vs. Rad Power: Rad vs. Xtracycle Comparison
–> Shop Xtracycle Models: Official Xtracycle Site
–> See Alternatives: Best Cargo E-Bikes 2025 Guide

Why Trust This Review?

Jeffrey South is the founder of Best Bike Brands. With over 30 years in the cycling world as a shop owner, mechanic, and industry insider, he now shares reviews, guides, and insights to help riders choose the best bikes and gear with confidence.