May 11, 2021 - When the opportunity to review Cube’s new Cargo Sport Hybrid e-bike, the inner child in me was ecstatic. By all accounts, I was not alone, as everywhere I went this stylish e-cargo bike turned heads like I was driving a red Ferrari.
Cube’s Cargo Sport Hybrid is geared towards everyday applications whether it be taking children to school, grocery shopping, beer runs, or garden center visits, but it can handle workloads of almost any kind making it one versatile utility vehicle for work or play. Needless to say it’s no wonder that e-cargo bikes are gaining in popularity worldwide as they’re a very smart urban mobility solution with virtually no parking hassles, no CO2 emissions, no hefty car insurance premiums, along with minimal upkeep costs.
Powering the Cargo Sport Hybrid is a Bosch Cargo Line Gen 4 motor, their latest model, with a max output of 85Nm of torque and a continuous rated power of 250 watts. An integrated 500-watt, 36-volt lithium ion battery will keep you going for most day-to-day applications, but Cube also features a built-in option for an additional battery for even more impressive load-carrying capabilities.
Cube’s low payload design allows a lower center of gravity which means additional weight does not adversely affect handling. With 60kg of payload capacity in the box section along with another 20kg on the optional rear rack you’ll be able to tackle almost any move you have in mind, whether for work-related projects or for everyday errands.
A sturdy aluminum beam-shaped frame supplies adequate strength to support the complete bike that weighs in at 45kg with the battery. The box is made of a strong EPP foam plastic composite with a harder metal ring surrounding it. That translates into lightweight and strength to safeguard precious cargo, along with comfort where it’s needed for children. Accessories are also available to accommodate two kids including seats, belts and arm rests.
Cube also offers a clear plastic Tonneau cover that can be open or closed depending on how wet the day is. This unit is hinged so that the children can enter and exit the box easily. The seatbelts, foam bench and backrest were very easy to install. During our test with two kids there was a great deal of enthusiasm to keep the e-cargo bike in Turbo mode and they rated the ride as a 9 out of 10, and 11 out of 10. Converting the box back for packages etc. was as simple as just removing the bench.
For another field test I loaded up the Cargo Sport Hybrid with 35kg of tools and completed a daily commute of 15km, out and back, on mostly flat backstreets for two weeks. The motor performed flawlessly with a very satisfying hum. There are four levels of assist – Eco, Tour, Sport and Turbo – and the assist level can easily be toggled while on the move with your left hand. As expected the lighter the gear, and the flatter the terrain, the more prolonged the pedal assist.
The Bosch Cargo Line Gen 4 motor can assist up to 32kph which was more than adequate support. The computer display provides real time calculations of range which as mentioned is entirely dependent on terrain, the weight being carried, and your interest in getting a workout or not. The battery charging time at 3.5 hours was faster than the manual predicted.
Starting from a full stop took a bit of time to get used to, especially when loaded. I found it easiest to sweep down through the gears and select a higher assist level when starting. Turbo mode is best for starts if you’re just learning, or when faced with a stoplight on a hill. Eco mode is the most “fuel efficient” and was adequate for most excursions.
Part of the testing included a local steep hill that I climbed several times with a 35kg load in each mode including off. While “off” was barely rideable, Eco supplied plenty of torque to do the task. The other settings were even better. Cube has included a walk-assist mode in cases where pushing the weighted bike is challenging.
The Cube Sport Cargo Hybrid is set up with a Shimano Deore single chainring 38×42 drivetrain operated by thumb shifters. This gearing was more than capable even carrying a 55kg load when the assist was off, thus nullifying any range anxiety that I had.
Cube wisely equipped their new e-cargo bike with Magura 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes on enormous 203mm rotors to bring all that weight to a resounding stop. Another nice feature is the stock SR Suntour Mobie Cargo 80mm front suspension fork which smoothed out the ride for the precious cargo and my tools as well which tended to bounce around when testing the fork in the “off” position.
This cargo/hybrid is equipped with front and rear lights. When switched to the “on” position you needn’t remember to turn them on each time you ride, a nice touch. Fenders are also stock to keep you from getting that telltale black stripe up your back from wet roads. Another nice touch is the “one size fits all” design with an adjustable quick-release seat post and ByShulz Speedlift Classic stem to adjust the handlebars. The frame is also split at the seat stay should one wish to install a belt drive.
The only modifications I’d consider changing would be the flat pedals and the seat post. Rubber pedals and water can make for a slippery combination, and a seat post with markings is preferred so that it can be easily set up for different sized riders.
Cube has put a lot of thoughtful engineering and experience into the design of their new Sport Cargo Hybrid e-cargo bike. It’s clearly a versatile utility vehicle and an important workhorse that will be quite apparent from your first ride. Well done Cube… not only my inner child, but the adult in me likes it as well.
The SRP is $7,199 and for more information please visit here.
