In this article, we explore in detail the rigorous testing our electric cargo bikes undergo to ensure their safety and reliability, up to the stated charge limit.
What are the safety standards for cargo bikes?
To date, two main standards are recognized: ISO 4210 for conventional bicycles and EN 15194 for electrically assisted bicycles. For cargo bikes, the French standard NF-R30-050 and the German standard DIN 79010, published in February 2020, are the most relevant.
DIN 79010:2020, entitled “Cycles – Transport and Cargo Bikes”, is the first to specify testing methods and safety requirements specifically for cargo bikes. It is accepted in Europe and adopted by ISO. This standard covers electric and non-electric cargo bikes, with one or more tracks, intended for the transport of passengers and goods.
The tests and requirements of DIN 79010 differ from conventional bicycle standards due to the special nature of cargo bikes, which are often heavily loaded. For example, braking and parking brake tests are more rigorous, loads applied to frames and forks are higher, and specific tests are carried out to ensure passenger safety 🚲.
How do we test the safety of our electric cargo bikes?
At Libbri, we place top priority on the safety of our users, whether it's transporting goods or traveling with your children. To ensure the safety of our electric cargo bikes, we have implemented a rigorous testing process that meets the highest safety standards.
Our electric cargo bikes have been certified by TÜV according to the requirements of the German standard DIN 79010. This standard represents a safety benchmark for cargo bikes and guarantees their suitability for their intended use. We are proud that our longtail bikes have met these strict standards, demonstrating our commitment to the safety of our customers.
Our tests don't just meet minimum standards; we constantly seek to exceed safety expectations. By complying with these rigorous standards, we ensure that our e-bikes provide a safe and reliable riding experience, whether carrying large loads or daily family trips.
DIN or EN or ISO? DIN is a specific standard for cargo bikes
The German DIN standard, specific to cargo bikes, is different from the European EN and ISO standards which apply to ordinary city and touring bikes. Unlike these more general standards, the DIN standard for cargo bikes takes into account the large payload carried by these bikes, which modifies and increases the forces exerted on the frame and fork.
The requirements of the DIN standard are therefore much stricter and include load tests with forces proportional to the weight of the bicycle, the rider, and any cargo or passengers. These tests ensure that the frame and fork of cargo bikes are designed to safely support the large loads they are designed to carry.
At Libbri, we put our cargo bike frames and forks through rigorous testing that simulates hundreds of thousands of multi-directional load cycles to ensure their strength and reliability. These tests comply with the requirements of the German DIN standard, which aims to ensure the safety and reliability of cargo bikes, even under intensive use conditions.
In summary, our cargo bikes have passed testing according to the German DIN standard, which ensures that our frames and forks meet the strictest safety requirements for utility bikes.
Do all companies do such thorough testing of their electric cargo bikes?
Many companies in the bicycle industry don't test their e-bikes as thoroughly. Indeed, while some companies simply certify themselves that their bikes meet certain safety standards, others, like Libbri, go further in their tests to guarantee optimal safety. However, for cargo bike manufacturers, there is an additional challenge. Most standard testing machines are not suitable for testing long cargo bikes. Despite these challenges and associated costs, at Libbri we firmly believe that ensuring the safety of cyclists and passengers is a top priority ❤️