IEV’s Top Picks: Unveiling the $14,000 Riese & Müller Load4 Electric Bike
We’re testing additional electric bikes and city-friendly transportation options, beginning with this nut-colored cargo vehicle. Feel free to ask us anything.
Electric bikes and overall e-mobility are gaining popularity globally as well as throughout the United States. In 2024, the sale of electric bicycles in the U.S. amounted to almost $1.8 billion, as reported by PeopleForBikes.
survey data
If you broaden this to encompass electric scooters and similar devices, the total figure would likely be even greater. Even Rivian has decided to join this trend.
Also
, its misleadingly titled micro-mobility division.
As denser cities and their neighboring suburbs invest in cycling infrastructure to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance road safety, the shift towards alternative modes of transport for city and short-distance travel becomes logical. The costs associated with cars and related expenditures have surged significantly, making such options increasingly prohibitive.
one in five
first-time car purchasers facing a $1,000 monthly car payment prior to accounting for fuel or insurance costs.
25% tariffs
With new regulations on imported cars and components scheduled to come into play on April 2nd, it seems affordability won’t be improving shortly. For numerous households, an electric bike as an alternative to a second car is becoming increasingly appealing.
In other words:
InsideEVs
Is focused on exploring the future of transportation, which now extends beyond just automobiles. Therefore, we intend to use our strict evaluation methods and straightforward feedback for all things related to electric mobility—assisting you in determining which items deserve your attention and which might be unreliable choices.
We’re beginning with this: The Riese & Müller Load4 75 Rohloff HS,
borrowed from Propel Bikes
That sounds complex, so let me break it down. Riese & Müller is a well-established German bicycle manufacturer with over three decades of experience, specializing in premium electric bikes since 2009. The Load4 represents their fourth-generation model in the range of front-loading cargo bicycles, and the “75” denotes the size of the cargo area at 75 centimeters long. Another notable component comes from Rohloff, a different German firm recognized for manufacturing internal gear hubs offering 14 speeds; these systems utilize belts rather than chains and demand less upkeep. Lastly, “HS” stands for High Speed, as this pedelec is capable of reaching up to 28 miles per hour and features an additional Turbo assist setting.
The cost isn’t insignificant—at $14,419 for the model tested, it definitely makes you take notice. This places it at the high-end of the cargo electric bike spectrum, more suited to luxury pursuits rather than budget-conscious buyers. However, equipped with full suspension and featuring 1.45 kWh of battery capacity offering approximately 80 miles of practical range, it transforms into a versatile all-terrain vehicle capable of carrying substantial loads, akin to a small car. Considering its used-car-level pricing, these features become quite significant.
(To be completely transparent: The staff at the electric bike retailer
Propel Bikes
lent me the
Load4
For a few days for this review.)
This week, I’ll put my cargo bike through rigorous use: runs to Costco and the garden center, a 20-mile total commute spanning different boroughs, plus leading a “bike bus” for school drop-offs. I will share updates later, but tell me now—what would you like to learn about the Load4 75?
When it comes to initial impressions, this bicycle is remarkably comfortable and steady whether fully loaded or empty. Initially, I was concerned about maneuvering with a large cargo box extending beyond the handlebars, but I adapted swiftly to the bike’s size and impressive handling capabilities. Additionally, the suspension system ensures a smooth journey even across New York City’s rough streets and bumpy pavements. However, the bike can seem lengthy and cumbersome when trying to navigate the tight corridors of my apartment complex.
What do you want to see in our e-bike and micromobility reviews at InsideEVs? Let us hear your thoughts.
