Cargo Bike
Magnum Payload
Budget longtail with massive battery that doesn't skimp on power
by Magnum
$1,699
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77lbs
Weight
400lbs
Max load
~39mi
Real range
1008Wh
Battery
2
Kids
179lbs
Cargo
The Carryish Take
Bottom line: The Payload proves you don't need to spend $4,000 to get serious cargo bike capability — just don't expect premium refinement.
Best for
- Budget-conscious families who need serious hauling capacity
- Suburban parents replacing short car trips with 2-3 mile school runs
- Commuters who prioritize range over premium components
- First-time cargo bike buyers testing the waters before upgrading
Not for
- Premium buyers — the Tern GSD offers superior refinement for $4,000+
- Apartment dwellers — this won't fold or fit in tight spaces like a Tern Quick Haul
- Mountain riders — hub motors struggle on steep, technical climbs
- Brand loyalists who want Specialized or Trek dealer support
Pros & Cons
What we like
- +1008Wh battery provides 50+ miles of real-world range with cargo
- +750W hub motor delivers strong hill-climbing power
- +400-lb total capacity handles two kids plus gear easily
- +$1,699 price point undercuts premium longtails by $1,500+
- +Class 1 rating keeps you legal on bike paths and trails
Watch out for
- –Generic hub motor lacks the smooth power delivery of mid-drive systems
- –Basic component spec keeps costs down but may require earlier upgrades
- –Unknown weight likely means 70+ lbs of bike to wrestle around
- –Magnum's service network isn't as extensive as major brands
Full Specifications
Motor & Power
- Motor
- Das-Kit (Hub (rear))
- Power
- 500W nominal / 750W peak
- Assist levels
- 6
- Throttle
- Thumb throttle
- Top speed
- 25 mph
- Class
- Class 3 (28 mph)
Battery & Range
- Battery
- 1008Wh
- Voltage
- 48V
- Stated range
- 60 mi
- Charge time
- 10.5 hrs
Size & Weight
- Weight
- 77 lbs
- Max system weight
- 400 lbs
- Cargo capacity
- 179 lbs
- Length
- 82.25"
- Wheelbase
- 53.25"
Drivetrain & Brakes
- Drivetrain
- Chain — Shimano
- Gearing
- Derailleur (8-speed)
- Brakes
- Hydraulic disc — Tektro
Wheels & Comfort
- Front wheel
- 26in
- Rear wheel
- 26in
- Tire width
- 2.4"
- Tires
- CST
Cargo & Family
- Layout
- Longtail
- Max child passengers
- 2
Extras
- Display
- Das-Kit C7, Backlit, Monochrome LCD
- Fenders
- Included
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 1008Wh battery compare to other longtails?
It's massive — the Tern GSD S00 comes with 500Wh standard, and even the RadWagon 4 only offers 672Wh. You'll get significantly more range than most competitors.
Can this really haul 400 lbs safely?
Yes, that's total system weight including rider and cargo. For a 180-lb adult, you've got 220 lbs for kids and gear, which handles most family scenarios easily.
Why choose hub motor over mid-drive?
Hub motors are simpler, cheaper to maintain, and still provide plenty of power. You lose some hill-climbing finesse but gain reliability and lower costs.
Is Magnum a reliable brand for long-term ownership?
They've been in the e-bike space for years with decent customer support. Not as established as Trek or Specialized, but they stand behind their products.
Against the RadWagon 4 ($1,899), you get a much bigger battery for slightly less money. Against the Tern GSD ($4,000+), you sacrifice refinement and compactness but keep $2,300 in your pocket.
