May 23, 2025

Cargo Bike History: Key Milestones in Bicycle Evolution

Cargo bicycles have served a wide range of transportation purposes long before modern e-bikes became mainstream. These two- and three-wheelers can trace their lineage back to the late 19th century, when people started experimenting with different options for carrying goods on their bikes. Although today’s models with high-capacity batteries and powerful motors are much different from their predecessors, their purpose remains the same: to haul more than a regular cycle can, without sacrificing speed and maneuverability.

But how have cargo bikes changed through the years? Why were they declined for several decades? And what can we expect from these cycles in the future? Cargo bike history is fraught with interesting facts.

Origins and Early Development (1880-1900)

The first cargo bikes appeared in Europe after introducing the safety bicycle in 1880-1882, as entrepreneurs tried out various ways to carry their products on two wheels. This gave rise to "butcher’s bikes" designed and constructed specifically for transporting loads. So, these two-wheeled cycles were equipped with spacious baskets mounted above the front wheel, and tradesmen (mainly butchers and bakers) used them for local deliveries, hence their name. Although these models were quite primitive, they laid the ground for the later cargo bike evolution.

Expansion and Popularity (1900-1950)

The 1900s marked a new chapter in cargo bike history, when urban deliveries became heavily dependent on these cycles. Several new bike designs appeared within the next five decades:

Long John: the bike was designed in Denmark in the 1920s and featured an extended wheelbase for placing a bigger cargo box between the front wheel and the handlebars. The Long John was presented to the public in 1924 by Smith & Co. and quickly proved its worth for hauling a wide range of goods. By the 1930s and 1940s, the bike spread through different European countries and became common in urban environments. In the Netherlands, they used the term bakfiets (aka "box bikes") to refer to these bicycles.
Cargo tricycles: some of these models were introduced as Long John variations, where riders could place cargo between the two front wheels for greater stability. Other designs had two rear wheels but functioned on the same principle.
Schwinn Cycle Truck: the bike was created in the US in 1939. It featured a heavy-duty frame and two wheels (20-inch front and 26-inch rear wheel), while the cargo basket was mounted on a special platform in front of the handlebars. The bicycle was produced until 1967 and used mainly by couriers and delivery boys.

The Decline and Resurgence (1950-2000)

After World War II, more and more people switched to motorized vehicles, finding them more convenient for handling their daily transportation needs. Hence, delivery routes were dominated by cars and vans, which led to a gradual decline in cargo bicycles across the US and Europe. However, pedal tricycles were still used for hauling people and goods in developing countries.

The situation changed in the late 1970s, when bike manufacturers started to rekindle their cargo bicycle heritage due to environmental concerns. So, in 1976, Christiania Bikes produced their first family cargo trike with two front wheels and a wooden box for hauling groceries, kids, and dogs. Such a bike design received great appreciation from parents, and the industry began to develop actively in the 1990s.

Also Read: Biking with Baby: Complete Guide on Keeping It Fun and Safe

Modern Cargo Bikes (2000-Present)

At the beginning of the 2000s, cargo bicycles firmly established themselves as a great transportation option for urban environments thanks to their technological advancements, environmental benefits, and maneuverability. Here are the principal changes cargo bikes have undergone within the last two decades:

Advancements in design and technology: modern cargo bicycles feature customizable and modular designs and come equipped with electric assistance for effortless rides. In addition, they are made from lightweight yet heavy-duty materials for enhanced performance and durability.
Wide adoption by businesses and logistics companies: many businesses invest in cargo cycles to leverage their ergonomic maneuverability in high-traffic urban spaces. Besides delivery purposes, the tricycles are also used as mobile vending units (e.g., by florists).
Role in sustainable urban transport: cargo bicycles produce zero emissions, take up minimum space, and help deal with noise pollution, which saves our planet and fosters a pleasurable living environment.

Future Trends

The cargo bike market value reached $3.4 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $4.9 billion by 2034. At the same time, new models promise to be even more powerful to suit the needs of modern society. Here’s what we may see in the near future:

Enhanced battery ranges with fast-charging technology
Increased motor power
Wider integration of smart technology (load sensors, GPS tracking, AI services, etc.)
Detailed analysis of real-time traffic data and statistics through the integration with smart city systems
Modular cargo systems to accommodate heavier loads (passengers, goods, equipment, pets, etc.)

Read Also: Bikes Vs Cars: What’s Better?

Conclusion

Cargo bike history shows that even though these bikes have undergone many transformations before they evolved into the vehicles we know today, the idea of hauling goods on wheels remains as relevant as a hundred years ago. If you want to embrace the convenience of tech-advanced cargo bikes, Ferla is here to offer you the best models. You can purchase, rent, or finance a bicycle for any needs, making your urban transportation much more efficient.