5 Longtails with 26 inch wheels and tires

Now that electric longtails have become incredibly popular, more and more people are starting to search for a model that suits their needs. The first wave of e-longtails mainly had 20-inch wheels. However, we notice that there is a high demand for longtails with a larger wheel size.

In this article, we will go over the different 26-inch longtail bikes available in Belgium and the Netherlands. Because there are already so many models, we cannot describe them all. Here you will find our favorites, but that doesn’t mean those that didn’t make this list aren’t good options.

Riese & Muller Multicharger2

We start with the Riese & Müller Multicharger 2. The Multicharger has been around for several years and was one of the first longtails with 26-inch wheels. They have set the standard for what we expect from such a model. Also chosen this year by velofietser as the best longtail.

With 26-inch wheels, you want to maintain more riding comfort and feel more like you’re riding a full-size, large bike. It’s also likely that your route includes more hills and uneven terrain, making the choice of larger wheels than 20 inches logical.

This Multicharger has everything it needs: a strong motor, a beautiful, sturdy, and quality design, and a lot of high-quality bike components to finish it off. This bike is incredibly good, but also incredibly expensive.

That’s why the Multicharger is not the right choice for everyone, and hence this list with multiple options and alternatives. Because the Multicharger is used as a standard, we see other brands trying to achieve similar quality and riding comfort. A nice advantage for you as a consumer.

Merida Centurion Vario R960i

A strong contender challenging the Multicharger in 2024 is the brand new Merida Centurion Vario R960i. This bike has just won the RAI prize for cargo bike of the year, and we can see why.

It offers more options and quality than other brands and falls into the same price segment as the Multicharger. So, you get value for your money.

The Merida Centurion cargo bike is equipped with very high-quality components, including a SRAM derailleur and shifter, quality Suntour suspension, and the same Bosch cargoline motor as Riese & Müller.

The robust aluminum frame results in a weight of 32.9 kg and a maximum load capacity of 213 kg (user weight of 180 kg). With all these components and build quality, you can say that this is a bike with a long lifespan, although you need to maintain it.

There is also an interesting difference: the front wheel is 26 inches, but the rear wheel is 24 inches. This way, you can still maintain a sporty riding position while lowering the center of gravity.

A few more differences from the Multicharger2, the Centurion is slightly longer and has a bit more room when stepping on, although the step-through height (Multicharger Mixte design) is the same. Additionally, R&M also has the more sporty design as depicted above.

Kettler Quadriga Cargoline

Just below the absolute premium segment, there are still many good longtail bikes with 26-inch wheels available. For example, the Kettler Quadriga Cargo Line costs 5000 euros.

Like the premium models, this bike features a Bosch CX Cargo Line motor with 85 Nm. All other electrical components are also from Bosch and therefore of identical quality.

Brands like Kettler, Cube, and Trek also use high-quality components from well-known brands like Shimano and Schwalbe. Although comparable, these are slightly less qualitative than the two premium models mentioned earlier. These slightly cheaper (but still expensive) longtail bikes offer better value for money, but you may have to compromise slightly on ease of use.

The strong aluminum frame of this bike has a similar load capacity to that of the Cube or Bergamont, but we still rate it slightly higher due to the presence of front suspension, which offers that extra bit of comfort for those who need it.

On the Kettler, there is also the option to install an optional second battery. That being said, it is important to know or remember that this option is slightly more expensive than the models mentioned below.

Cube Longtail Hybrid

Next, we have the Cube Hybrid Longtail 725, which we also saw at Velofollies, a model that appeals to many people. Cube offers a very good price-quality ratio with this model, although it still falls into a slightly higher price segment.

This is mainly due to the choice of the powerful Bosch mid-drive motor (85 Nm). If you opt for this motor model, you can expect a price above 3500 euros. However, for that price, you get the other high-quality components on this bike. You might consider purchasing this Cube Longtail for 4500 euros (or 3500 in refurbished condition).

The price-quality ratio is also reflected in the choice of components. Firstly, the frame: strong and sturdy, made of reinforced HPA aluminum contributing to a total weight of 34 kilograms.

This is Cube, a well-known brand that also has good suppliers. The shifters and derailleur are from Shimano Deore, just like the Kettler. However, the Magura MT5 brakes are a step better. Cube opts for two identical wheel sizes, 26 inches. The tires are from Schwalbe.

We also appreciate the design: not exceptionally sporty, but a nice upright riding position makes cycling pleasant for all types of users. The bike is also not long; it’s a relatively compact longtail (192 cm).

A clever innovation from Cube is that they also use the mid-tube as cargo space. There isn’t much space, but you can store kilograms in the form of a bag that you can easily attach to the specially adapted design of the bike.

Although suspension is lacking, this bike is intended for people who will ride on paved roads. So, it’s a good 26-inch longtail for the city, for example. There is also a Cube Longtail Hybrid Sport version. The only difference is that you get an additional high-quality 11-speed derailleur here, in case the automatic shifting on the standard model doesn’t provide enough options. If you want to ride more sportily, tackle more uphill and downhill rides, or encounter sudden inclines, manual shifting may be a solution.

Bergamont Cargoville LT

The Bergamont Cargoville LT falls into the same price segment as the Cube Longtail Hybrid but is more of a competitor to the Riese & Muller Multicharger or Merida Centurion.

At 38.2 kilograms, this sturdy longtail is slightly heavier. Additionally, you’ll notice right away that suspension is lacking. However, this doesn’t necessarily make the bike much worse than those two premium models. It’s primarily an attractive alternative for those whose budget doesn’t stretch far enough.

With Bergamon, you still get good quality and all the benefits of a longtail bike. We also have no doubts about its durability. It still makes use of very high-quality components, although you shouldn’t always expect the absolute top range.

Let’s go over this briefly: we have a Bosch Performance Line (Gen3) 65 Nm instead of 85. The latest models are Gen4, so this one is slightly older and with fewer technological features. Still sufficient for all types of routes, even uphill with weight. You’ll just have to pedal a bit more. The battery size of 500Wh is somewhat limited, but still enough for routes under 50 km.

Powerful Magura brakes for safe stopping, even with heavy loads. Suspension is not present, but Bergamont ensures extra stiffness in the design of the front fork and high-quality tires to absorb most shocks. You can always install a seat or stem suspension yourself if your route requires it.

The Benefits (and Drawbacks) of 26 Inch Wheels on a Longtail Bike

When choosing a longtail bike, one of the most important decisions is the size of the wheels. Among the various options, 26-inch wheels stand out as a preferred choice for several reasons.

Stability and Handling

Stability is one of the key considerations for a cargo bike, especially when loaded. The 26-inch wheel size contributes to a lower center of gravity (compared to 27 to 29 inches). This is essential for longtail bikes, designed to carry heavy loads, often at the rear of the bike.

A lower center of gravity improves stability and handling, making the ride safer and more comfortable for both the cyclist and the cargo. Of course, this is even more pronounced with 20 or 24-inch longtails.

If you’re torn between 20 and 26 inches, you should realize that you’ll be compromising on this aspect. The 24-inch longtail seems to be a middle ground for many.

Riding Comfort

Riding comfort is another advantage of 26-inch tires. Especially for a bike that may be used over long distances or on various terrains.

The 26-inch wheels offer a balance between efficiency and comfort. They are large enough to roll smoothly over obstacles but small enough to remain agile. This size also allows for a wider selection of tire types, including tires with thicker treads or more cushioning, further enhancing the comfort and versatility of the bike.

Durability

Durability is a crucial factor for cargo bikes, given their intended use for heavy loads and frequent rides. 26-inch wheels are known for their robustness.

The slightly smaller diameter, compared to larger wheels, means the wheel is naturally stronger and better able to withstand potholes, bumps, and loads. This can lead to a longer lifespan of the wheels and less frequent repairs.

Additionally, one could argue that there is more tire surface – and thus less wear and tear – compared to a 20-inch tire. Over a kilometer, a 20-inch tire is in contact with the ground more than a 26-inch tire.

Personal Preference

Perhaps you simply don’t feel safe on those tiny 20-inch tires. And while there are always arguments for smaller wheels, your personal feeling remains an important point. You just can’t get around it. Don’t buy something you won’t be happy with. Test them out and go for your personal preference; there’s no real right or wrong.