Cargo Bike
Surly Big Easy
The steel-framed longtail that hauls like a pickup truck
by Surly
$5,000
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65lbs
Weight
400lbs
Max load
85Nm
Torque
~33mi
Real range
725Wh
Battery
2
Kids
The Carryish Take
Bottom line: A pickup truck in bike form — heavy, capable, and built to outlast everything else in your garage.
Best for
- Families with 2+ kids who need maximum hauling capacity
- Year-round riders in harsh climates who prioritize durability
- Mechanics and DIY types who want serviceable, repairable components
- Rural or suburban families replacing a pickup truck for local trips
- Anyone who keeps bikes for 10+ years and wants something bulletproof
Not for
- Budget buyers — the Lectric XPedition does 80% of this for $1,399
- Urban riders with tight storage — the Tern GSD folds smaller
- Style-conscious buyers who want Instagram-worthy aesthetics
- Apartment dwellers who need to carry bikes upstairs regularly
Pros & Cons
What we like
- +725Wh Bosch battery provides 40-50 miles of real-world range
- +400-lb total capacity handles two kids plus groceries easily
- +Steel frame construction built to survive decades of family abuse
- +Bosch mid-drive motor delivers smooth, natural power delivery
- +Class 1 motor keeps you legal on bike paths and trails
- +Surly's reputation for bombproof components and serviceability
Watch out for
- –At 65 lbs, it's heavy to maneuver without power assist
- –$5,000 price point puts it in premium territory
- –Steel frame makes it heavier than aluminum competitors
- –Limited color options compared to more style-focused brands
Full Specifications
Motor & Power
- Motor
- Bosch (Mid-drive)
- Power
- 250W nominal / 600W peak
- Torque
- 85 Nm
- Assist levels
- 4
- Top speed
- 20 mph
- Class
- Class 1 (20 mph, no throttle)
Battery & Range
- Battery
- Bosch 725Wh
- Voltage
- 36V
- Removable
- Yes
- Dual battery
- Yes
- Stated range
- 50 mi
- Charge time
- 6 hrs
Size & Weight
- Weight
- 65 lbs
- Max system weight
- 400 lbs
- Wheelbase
- 58.3"
- Rider height
- 4'7" – 6'4"
Drivetrain & Brakes
- Drivetrain
- Chain — Shimano
- Gearing
- Derailleur (9-speed)
- Brakes
- Hydraulic disc — Tektro
Wheels & Comfort
- Front wheel
- 26in
- Rear wheel
- 26in
- Tire width
- 2.5"
- Tires
- Surly
Cargo & Family
- Layout
- Longtail
- Max child passengers
- 2
Extras
- Display
- Bosch Intuvia 100
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 725Wh battery compare to other longtails?
It's among the largest in the category — 100Wh bigger than the Tern GSD's 625Wh pack. Expect 40-50 miles of real range depending on cargo load and terrain.
Can it really handle 400 lbs safely?
Yes, that steel frame is overbuilt for durability. Two kids plus groceries is no problem, though you'll feel the weight when pedaling unassisted.
Is the Bosch motor powerful enough for hills?
The 250W Bosch mid-drive provides plenty of torque for climbing with cargo. It's not as punchy as some higher-wattage systems but delivers smooth, predictable power.
How does it compare to the Tern GSD?
The Big Easy trades the GSD's folding convenience for higher capacity and steel durability. Choose Surly for maximum hauling, Tern for apartment living.
Against the Tern GSD S00, you're trading folding convenience for 75 lbs more capacity and steel durability. The Lectric XPedition costs $3,600 less but won't survive Minnesota winters like this will.
