November 3, 2022 - Being a big fan of e-cargo bikes, the opportunity to test ride a 2023 Yuba Mundo EP8 put a big check mark of excitement on my to-do list.
Right out of the box, the Mundo delivers on its unique characteristics starting with a V6 Electric Cr-Mo frame that sports a head-turning gold paint scheme. Its sway back Yuba City handlebars and 26-inch wheels separate it from other e-cargo bikes in this class, where 20” and 24” wheels tend to be the norm.
Powered by Shimano’s new powerful 250-watt EP800-CRG mid-drive motor with 85Nm of torque designed for e-cargo bikes – also popular with the eMTB crowd – there’s no worry about the Mundo’s ability to get the job done whatever the load or terrain. The removeable 504 Wh battery is mounted on the downtube allowing easy access for charging.
There are four power support modes via a Shimano E6100 display including Eco, Trail, Boost and Walk-assist, which are easily navigated using the handlebar-mounted Firebolt Switch Unit with ride info available on an easy-to-read, compact display. The system is completely tunable through the Shimano E-Tube App allowing customization for specific ride demands.
Keeping with the mountain-bike theme, a trail-proven Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain paired with an 11-36T Shimano cassette provides accurate shifting to access the right gear choice and dial your cadence to maximize the pedal assist.
Magura’s MT32 hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors perform their job quickly and safely to bring this rig to a full stop, even under heavy load. The WTB 26” x 36-spoke wheels with Schwalbe Big Ben 2.15” are designed to be strong and durable for heavy cargo bike use.
The stock Herrmans lights are an added bonus as they turn on when the bike is under power for high visibility putting safety at the forefront.
Our test model featured a selection of accessories which included a Bread Basket front carrier, rear Monkey Bars, Bamboo Deck passenger feet boards, and Soft Spot padded passenger seats. All were quickly and easily installed needing only an allen key to complete
Having the bike come stock with rear wheel guards is a smart move by Yuba as you don’t want to carry passengers, especially young children, without them. It was also comforting to know that the Mundo has a 550 pounds of carrying capacity, even though it was a weight limit that we did not anticipate reaching.
My first trip on the Mundo was a shopping excursion and the Bread Basket handily accommodated two grocery bags – it allows up to 50 lbs of cargo – and the aluminum rack bars accommodate standard bungies to easily secure the load. My back pack was at the ready for any overflow. The Bread Basket also has quick release skewers making for simple removal when not needed.
The large, motor-bike inspired Stand Together kickstand, was also appreciated as it’s easy to use, and provides a solid base of support while parked.
The sway-back City bars and adjustable stem along with the 26-inch wheels put you tall in the saddle for a balanced, upright position which helps with visibility and ensures control when out on the road.
A highlight of e-cargo bikes like the Mundo is having the option of transporting passengers via the rear Monkey Bars rack system that can manage up to three kids – note with three kids panniers may not be an option.
Picking up my 13-year-old daughter, Campbell, was breeze for some very enjoyable father-daughter bonding time. She found the padded seats comfortable and appreciated the Bamboo Deck feet boards as well.
The Shimano Steps EP800 e-drive system provided ample power to get everything done that we put it through, under all conditions. I found Trail mode to be the workhorse of the Mundo and used this level quite regularly as it was more than capable to assist under load while saving battery charge at the same time.
On steeper hills especially under load, or to maximize speed, Boost mode was my go-to selection. The bigger tires and wheels helped provide a stable ride, and the additional bit of engineering in the frame as seen in the continuous “stays” provided a stiff, nimble handling machine, with the ability to rail around corners at speed.
Although not designed as a commuter, the Mundo got me to work in fine fashion for the 50-km round trip journey. I chose Boost mode the whole way to maximize speed and comfort and avoid excessive amounts of personal energy to get this heavier bike to go faster. I even made it with some charge left to spare.
It’s also worth noting that if regular commuting is in your ride agenda, then planning ahead for easy and secure parking is a good idea. Like most e-cargo bikes the Mundo won’t fit in all elevators, getting it through doorways and tight corners can be challenging, and it’s not the kind of bike to pack up stairs.
Yuba describes the Mundo EP8 as a two-wheeled SUV, and it will make a fine addition to your bucket list, as mobility trends around the world continue to evolve, and e-cargo bikes take centre stage as a green transportation solution.
The SRP is $6,850 and for more information please visit here.
