Urban Arrow’s FamilyNext Cargo Bike

Electric cargo bikes are some of the most intriguing e-bikes because of their versatility. They can carry a lot of weight in addition to their passengers and therefore transcend a single passenger e-bike with a rear rack. I remember riding one of the smaller, non-cargo e-bikes, which was impressive in its own ways, and yet it could only support about 22 pounds on its rear rack. That’s not enough weight for my grocery runs or a trip to a retail outlet. So, a cargo bike would probably be necessary. 

Additionally, some families with small children can use an electric cargo bike to take the children with them on a trip to the park, grocery store, school, ball game, etc., without having to use a car every time. Urban Arrow is a leader in making electric cargo bikes, and the company had some news come out several weeks ago. Derek wrote an article about it, but I also wanted to get some perspective directly from Urban Arrow.

Mark Danhof, General Manager Gazelle & Urban Arrow, answered some questions about the FamilyNextPro.

What is the FamilyNext Pro and who is it for?

The FamilyNext Pro is Urban Arrow’s most advanced e-cargo bike yet—designed for families who want to reduce car reliance without compromising on safety, comfort, or performance (or fun!). It’s a true second-car replacement for urban households: capable of transporting up to four kids, groceries, and gear—all while navigating city streets with ease. Built on a proven platform, it combines smart connectivity, powerful Bosch performance, and award-winning design for daily transport that’s smarter, cleaner, and more human-centered. It’s also a great option for DIYers, small business owners, or any old rider that is looking to do a lot by bike, especially when it comes to carrying serious cargo with ease.

What is new about the FamilyNext Pro?

This latest generation brings a number of long-requested innovations. Most notably: a front suspension fork for increased comfort and stability, an upgraded ergonomic cockpit, enhanced integrated LED lighting, and a redesigned foothold and bench, making it easier for kids to get in and out on their own. It also features a one-handed seatbelt system, higher seat backrests, and a more spacious box design to give room for more passengers or cargo—all while retaining the low-maintenance Gates belt drive and stepless Enviolo shifting. It’s designed to evolve with the modern urban family.

How much weight can the front box carry? 

The front box is rated for 275 lbs (125 kg), and the entire bike has a total weight limit of 550 lbs (250 kg). That’s among the highest payload capacities in its class, enabling real-world utility that rivals a compact car.

Does the front box have seat belts for kids or straps for cargo?

Yes. The updated box and integrated bench include an intuitive one-handed 3-point harness system for child safety—especially important when you’ve got your hands full. This clever design makes it easy for kids to click themselves in, but not easy enough for young ones to click themselves out! The design also works well for hauling flexible cargo, with the option to remove seating and reconfigure for gear or business use.

How much does the e-bike weigh and cost?

The FamilyNext Pro weighs 112 pounds (51 kg). It retails for $8,999 USD and $12,499 CAD.

What is the top speed and the range?

As a Class 1 e-bike, the FamilyNext Pro offers pedal assist up to 20 mph (32 km/h). It comes standard with a Bosch 545 Wh PowerPack battery, delivering an average range of around 31 miles (50 km)—depending on load, terrain, and assist level. For longer commutes, an optional second battery or an upgrade to an 800 Wh Bosch battery can be purchased separately. The modular Bosch Smart System and integration with the eBike Flow app allow for range optimization and updates over time.

Do some people use their cargo e-bikes instead of driving a car to a grocery store, school or doctor’s office?

Every day—and that’s the point. Across North America and Europe, Urban Arrow riders are choosing cargo bikes over cars for everything from school drop-offs and shopping to pediatric appointments. With rising fuel prices, growing congestion, and an increasing focus on 15-minute cities, the FamilyNext Pro makes daily car replacement not just possible, but preferable.

How many Urban Arrow electric cargo bikes have sold so far?

We’ve sold over 100,000 bikes globally, making Urban Arrow the most adopted front loader e-cargo bike brand in the world. That scale brings valuable user feedback, system refinements, and the confidence that you’re investing in a platform with real-world reliability and serviceability.

Could it be used by couriers or say a small ice cream or drinks vendor at events if they used ice and coolers in the cargo area?

Urban Arrow’s core focus with the Family and FamilyNext Pro is on enabling smarter mobility for families—helping parents replace their second car with a safe, stylish, and sustainable transport solution. That said, we’ve seen creative adaptations of this platform for light commercial use, especially among entrepreneurs who value its stability, large box volume, and high-quality build. From pop-up coffee stands to mobile vendors at car-free events, enterprising small business owners have successfully customized the Family series for their needs.