Xtracycle has released their newest cargo electric bike, the Hopper, and itโs already making waves for families looking for a more compact, versatile, and affordable cargo ebike. Known for their high-end models like the Swoop, Xtracycle focuses solely on cargo ebikes, and the Hopper brings that expertise to a more accessible price point while still offering many premium features. In this review, weโll explore the components, accessories, and performance of the Hopper to see how it stacks up against other cargo electric bikes. If you’re considering the Hopper, you can check it out using this link.
Xtracycle Hopper Review Video
The Hopper may be more compact compared to other Xtracycle models like the Swoop, but itโs still long enough to handle serious cargo. Despite being shorter than the Swoop, the Hopper retains impressive storage capacity, allowing us to comfortably haul three kids in the rear. The bike may have a smaller footprint, but it doesnโt compromise on load capacity or versatility.
Motor, Drivetrain, and Key Specs
The Hopper features a 750W hub-drive motor, a change from Xtracycle’s usual mid-drive setups, but one that delivers ample power for heavy loads. The bike operates as a Class 2 ebike with throttle and pedal assist, and the throttle cuts off at 20 mph. You can, however, reach speeds of up to 28 mph when pedaling in Class 3 mode.
Here are the key specs for the Xtracycle Hopper:
- Battery: 48V 15Ah (720Wh) UL-certified battery
- Range: Up to 60 miles (depending on load and conditions)
- Motor: 750W rear hub motor
- Weight: 85 lbs (with all accessories installed)
- Frame: Aluminum alloy
- Suspension Fork: SR SunTour Mobie A32 with 50mm travel
- Brakes: Hudson hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors
- Tires: Kenda 20โ x 2.25โ puncture-resistant tires with reflective sidewalls
- Derailleur: Shimano Altus 8-speed
- Shifter: Shimano Altus 8-speed trigger shifter
- Gears: 8-speed
- Standover Height: 21.25 inches
- Height Recommendation: Suitable for riders between 5′ and 6’5″
- Weight Capacity: 500 lbs total (including 240 lbs on the rear rack)
The battery is a key component of the Hopper, offering a 48V 15Ah (720Wh) capacity, which is UL-certified for safety. You can expect a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge, though this will vary depending on factors like rider weight, terrain, and cargo load. The battery is removable, making it convenient for charging either on or off the bike, and it takes about 5 hours to fully charge with the 2.8 amp charger.
Pricing and Value
While Xtracycleโs other cargo models like the Swoop and Stoker are priced at $4,000 and above, the Hopper is a more affordable alternative. At launch, you can get the Hopper for $2,499 using the code HOP500 (regular price $2,999). This competitive pricing, combined with Xtracycleโs expertise in cargo bikes, makes it a strong option for families. Xtracycle also sometimes includes accessories which is a nice bonus.
Delivery and Assembly Options
One standout feature of Xtracycle is their range of delivery and assembly options, designed to fit different needs and budgets. Hereโs a breakdown of whatโs available:
- Direct Home Delivery ($400): Your bike arrives fully assembled in Xtracycleโs โBig Box of Happiness.โ This premium service includes a 15-day, 50-mile trial period with a hassle-free return policy. Delivery takes about two weeks in the continental U.S.
- Local Assembly (free): Xtracycle will ship your bike to a local shop through the Beeline Connect network, where expert mechanics will assemble it. You can then pick it up at your convenience.
- Home Assembly (free): Prefer to assemble the bike yourself or with your local bike shop? This option ships the bike directly to your home. Unassembled bikes typically ship within two business days.
- Local Delivery ($175): If youโre in the SF Bay Area or NYC, Xtracycle offers fully assembled home delivery for $175.
- Local Pick-up (free): You can also pick up your bike fully assembled at Xtracycleโs stores in the SF Bay Area or NYC.
These flexible options provide added convenience for families who may want expert assembly or prefer a DIY approach.
Accessories: Making the Most of a Cargo Bike
Xtracycle is known for well-thought-out accessories, and the Hopper is no exception. Included with the bike are:
- Porter Rack: A front rack with a 25kg capacity that can hold various bags, including Xtracycleโs PorterBag.
- Running Boards: These give your kids a place to rest their feet while riding in the rear.
- Hoopie Rail System: Double rails offer extra safety and include soft grips for added comfort. When your kids outgrow this setup, you can swap it for Snack Bars, another accessory designed for older children.
For added comfort, thereโs also the optional Magic Carpet seat pad, which we highly recommend for those longer rides with passengers. These accessories add great value to the Hopper, especially compared to other brands where such items are often sold separately.
Frame, Fit, and Ride Experience
The Hopperโs standover height is 21.25 inches, which makes it accessible for a wide range of riders. It also features a dropper suspension seatpost, allowing you to quickly adjust the seat height at stopsโperfect for switching between riders. However, the suspension doesnโt add significantly to the overall comfort, but the ability to adjust the seat height on the fly is a huge plus.
The bike is designed with stability in mind, thanks to its cargo-specific suspension fork from SR SunTour and sturdy BMX-style handlebars. The fork has 50mm of travel, which helps smooth out the ride while carrying heavy loads.
Performance: What to Expect on the Road
The Hopper is an easy bike to ride at cruising speeds between 14 to 17 mph with little effort. However, pushing past 20 mph (while pedaling) does require more exertion, especially when loaded. Riders looking to hit 28 mph will need to be ready to put in some serious pedal power.
The torque sensor provides a smooth riding experience, delivering power in response to how hard youโre pedaling. While the throttle gives you a nice boost for quick starts, it stops assisting at 20 mph, so pushing past that speed requires pedaling.
For those who like to pedal but still want assistance, this setup strikes a nice balance. If you need more motor power at higher speeds, you might find the Hopper’s performance a bit limiting, but for city riding and hauling cargo, itโs plenty fast.
Pros and Cons: Final Thoughts
After spending some time with the Hopper, here are the pros and cons weโve noticed:
Pros:
- Impressive weight capacity: The Hopper can carry up to 500 lbs, including 240 lbs on the rear rack, making it ideal for families with multiple kids or heavy cargo.
- Excellent included accessories: From the Hoopie Rail System to the Porter Rack, Xtracycle offers premium, well-thought-out accessories that add significant value.
- Stable and nimble: Even when fully loaded, the Hopper feels stable and easy to maneuver, especially compared to other cargo bikes.
- Adjustable dropper seat post: This makes the bike more versatile for families sharing the ride.
Cons:
- Limited power at higher speeds: Pushing the bike past 20 mph while loaded can be challenging, and reaching the full 28 mph top speed requires a fair amount of effort.
- Basic LCD screen: While functional, the display could be more advanced for a bike at this price point.
Overall, the Xtracycle Hopper offers a compact, high-capacity cargo solution with plenty of valueโespecially at the launch price of $2,499. The inclusion of a throttle, quality accessories, and the ability to haul multiple kids or heavy cargo makes it an excellent option for families.
For more cargo bike options, check out our best cargo ebikes list. If youโre ready to purchase the Hopper, consider using this affiliate link to support the channel.
Thanks for reading, and weโll see you in the next review!
FAQ: Xtracycle Hopper Review
What is the Xtracycle Hopper?
The Xtracycle Hopper is a compact cargo electric bike designed for families and riders who need a versatile bike for hauling children, groceries, and other cargo. It features a 750W hub motor, an impressive weight capacity of 500 lbs, and premium accessories such as the Porter Rack and Hoopie Rail System.
How does the Xtracycle Hopper compare to the Swoop?
While the Swoop is a larger, mid-drive cargo ebike, the Hopper is more compact and features a hub-drive motor. Despite its smaller size, the Hopper still has a significant cargo capacity, allowing riders to carry up to three children. The Hopper is also more affordable, with a starting price of $2,499 compared to the Swoop, which is priced over $4,000.
What is the maximum speed of the Xtracycle Hopper?
The Xtracycle Hopper can reach speeds up to 28 mph in Class 3 pedal-assist mode. When using the throttle, the speed is capped at 20 mph, following Class 2 ebike regulations.
What is the range of the Xtracycle Hopper?
The Hopper has a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge, depending on conditions such as rider weight, terrain, and cargo load.
What is the weight capacity of the Xtracycle Hopper?
The Hopper can carry up to 500 lbs in total, including 240 lbs on the rear rack, making it ideal for transporting children, groceries, or other heavy cargo.
How big is the Xtracycle Hopper?
While the Hopper is more compact than Xtracycleโs larger models, it still provides plenty of space for cargo. Its standover height is 21.25 inches, and it can comfortably accommodate riders between 5′ and 6’5″ in height.
What accessories are included with the Xtracycle Hopper?
The Hopper comes with several high-quality accessories, including the Porter Rack for front cargo, the Hoopie Rail System for rear safety, and running boards for passenger comfort. Optional accessories include the Magic Carpet seat pad and Snack Bars for older children.
Is assembly required for the Xtracycle Hopper?
Xtracycle offers several assembly and delivery options, including:
- Direct Home Delivery ($400): The bike arrives fully assembled.
- Local Assembly (free): Your bike is shipped to a local shop for expert assembly.
- Home Assembly (free): You can assemble the bike yourself, though it is recommended to have a professional look it over.
- Local Delivery ($175): Fully assembled home delivery in the SF Bay Area or NYC.
- Local Pick-up (free): You can pick up the fully assembled bike from Xtracycle stores.
How long does it take to charge the Xtracycle Hopper?
The Hopperโs 48V 15Ah battery takes about 5 hours to fully charge using the included 2.8A charger.
Is the Xtracycle Hopper good for long rides?
The Hopper is suitable for long rides, especially with its large battery and 60-mile range. However, pushing past 20 mph (especially while loaded) requires significant effort, so riders looking for higher speeds will need to be ready to pedal.