Cargo Bike
Riese & Müller Transporter2 85
German-engineered front-loader that hauls like a delivery truck
$9,119
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108lbs
Weight
485lbs
Max load
545Wh
Battery
220lbs
Cargo
The Carryish Take
Bottom line: The Transporter2 85 is the Tesla Model S of cargo bikes — expensive but brilliant if you can afford it and plan to use it daily.
Best for
- Families with 2-3 kids who want to eliminate car trips entirely
- Small business owners doing local deliveries under 20 miles
- Suburban families with long commutes who need serious range
- Anyone prioritizing build quality and planning to keep the bike 10+ years
Not for
- Budget buyers — the Tern GSD S00 does family hauling for $4,000 less
- Casual riders who want to try cargo biking — start with a Rad Power bike
- Urban dwellers with limited storage — this thing is massive
- Anyone who needs to regularly carry the bike up stairs
Pros & Cons
What we like
- +1450Wh dual battery system delivers 60+ miles even when fully loaded
- +485 lbs total capacity handles multiple kids plus cargo
- +Bosch mid-drive motor provides smooth, natural power delivery
- +German engineering means this bike will run for 10+ years
- +Front-loader design offers better stability than longtails when loaded
- +Class 1 motor keeps you legal on bike paths nationwide
Watch out for
- –At $9,119, costs more than many used cars
- –108 lbs means you'll need help with stairs or car racks
- –Front box takes practice to maneuver in tight spaces
- –Limited dealer network means service can be tricky outside major cities
Full Specifications
Motor & Power
- Motor
- Bosch (Mid-drive)
- Power
- 250W nominal
- Class
- Class 1 (20 mph, no throttle)
Battery & Range
- Battery
- Bosch 545Wh
- Removable
- Yes
- Dual battery
- Yes (1450Wh total)
Size & Weight
- Weight
- 108 lbs
- Max system weight
- 485 lbs
- Cargo capacity
- 220 lbs
- Wheelbase
- 80.7"
- Rider height
- 4'11" – 6'7"
Drivetrain & Brakes
- Drivetrain
- Chain — Shimano
- Gearing
- Derailleur (10-speed)
- Brakes
- Hydraulic disc — Tektro
Wheels & Comfort
- Front wheel
- 20in
- Rear wheel
- 26in
- Tires
- Schwalbe
- Suspension
- Front suspension
Cargo & Family
- Layout
- Front-box
Safety & Security
- Integrated lights
- Yes
Extras
- Display
- Bosch Purion 200
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the dual battery system work?
The Transporter2 85 runs two 545Wh batteries in parallel for 1450Wh total. The system automatically balances the draw between them, and you can remove either battery for charging.
What fits in the front box?
The front cargo area can handle two kids up to age 8, or about 4-5 grocery bags worth of cargo. R&M offers various accessories like child seats and cargo dividers.
How does it compare to longtail cargo bikes?
Front-loaders like this offer better stability when loaded and easier loading/unloading. But they're harder to park and take more practice to ride confidently.
Is the $9,119 price justified?
You're paying for German engineering, premium components, and a bike that'll last decades. But there are capable cargo bikes for half this price if budget matters more than longevity.
If the Urban Arrow Family is the practical choice and the Tern GSD is the compact option, the Transporter2 85 is the premium pick that prioritizes build quality and range above all else.
