Cargo Bike
Xtracycle RFA
The midtail that bridges longtail hauling and compact storage
by Xtracycle
$3,499
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60.2lbs
Weight
470lbs
Max load
85Nm
Torque
~39mi
Real range
630Wh
Battery
2
Kids
The Carryish Take
Bottom line: A well-executed midtail that delivers serious cargo capacity without the bulk, priced fairly for the quality.
Best for
- Families with 1-2 kids who want cargo capacity without longtail length
- Urban commuters who need to haul work gear plus occasional passengers
- Apartment dwellers who can't fit a full longtail in their space
- Second-car replacement buyers who prioritize versatility over speed
- Delivery riders who need serious cargo capacity on varied terrain
Not for
- Speed demons — the RadWagon 5 gives you throttle and 25 mph for $2,000 less
- Families with 3+ kids — you need a longtail like the Yuba Spicy Curry
- Budget buyers — the Lectric XP 3.0 Long Range does basic hauling for $1,800 less
- Car-free families who need maximum passenger comfort — get the Tern GSD
Pros & Cons
What we like
- +630Wh battery provides 40-50 miles of mixed riding with cargo
- +85Nm Shimano motor handles steep hills with two kids aboard
- +470 lbs total capacity hauls serious cargo in a compact frame
- +60 lbs makes it 15-20 lbs lighter than comparable longtails
- +Midtail length fits in standard bike racks and storage spaces
- +Xtracycle's 20+ years of cargo bike engineering shows in the details
Watch out for
- –Class 1 only — no throttle and 20 mph speed limit
- –$3,499 puts it $500-800 above budget midtail options
- –Shorter deck means less passenger legroom than full longtails
- –At 60 lbs, still heavy for apartment stairs or car racks
Full Specifications
Motor & Power
- Motor
- Shimano (Mid-drive)
- Power
- 250W nominal
- Torque
- 85 Nm
- Top speed
- 28 mph
- Class
- Class 3 (28 mph)
Battery & Range
- Battery
- Shimano 630Wh
- Removable
- Yes
- Stated range
- 60 mi
Size & Weight
- Weight
- 60.2 lbs
- Max system weight
- 470 lbs
- Length
- 73"
- Wheelbase
- 51"
Drivetrain & Brakes
- Drivetrain
- Chain — Shimano
- Gearing
- Derailleur (10-speed)
- Brakes
- Hydraulic disc — Tektro
Wheels & Comfort
- Front wheel
- 24in
- Rear wheel
- 24in
- Tire width
- 2.5"
- Tires
- NICA'GNAR
Cargo & Family
- Layout
- Midtail
- Max child passengers
- 2
Safety & Security
- Integrated lights
- Yes
Extras
- Display
- Shimano SC-EN500
- Fenders
- Included
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this compare to the Tern HSD?
Both are premium midtails around $3,500. The RFA has a bigger battery (630Wh vs 500Wh) and slightly higher capacity, while the HSD folds and has Bosch components.
Can it really haul 470 lbs?
Yes, that's the total system weight including rider. Expect around 300 lbs of cargo capacity for a 170 lb rider, which easily handles two kids plus gear.
Will it fit in my garage?
At midtail length, it's about 6.5 feet long versus 8+ feet for longtails. Much more manageable for tight storage spaces.
How's the ride quality with heavy loads?
Xtracycle knows cargo bikes — expect stable handling even fully loaded. The 85Nm motor provides smooth power delivery under load.
Choose this over the Tern HSD if you prioritize battery capacity and cargo volume over folding capability. Pick it over the RadWagon 5 if you want premium components and don't need throttle assistance.
