Remember the adorable little classic red wagon you had fun with as a child? You may be grown up, but there’s no reason you can’t have just as much fun with a Radio Flyer Electric bike. Enter the new generation of Radio Flyer.
Flyer™ cargo ebikes. These longtail, cargo-hauling electric family bikes are a game-changer.
The new Flyer™ Via cargo e-bike has an integrated cargo rack that is 26 inches long and holds up to 150 lbs. The Via™ will take you on up to 50 miles of adventure, with one or two kids and cargo, without breaking a sweat.
In this Radio Flyer review, I’ll show you the pros and cons of the Flyer Via electric cargo bike for families, why you’ll want one, and what you need to know before buying this trustworthy family cargo e-bike.
And, I’ll show you how its super-long rear rack can carry your precious cargo, in varying arrangements! I’ve never experienced anything like it.
So, let’s get started!
Pros of the Flyer Via
50-Mile Range
Flyer says you can ride up to 50 miles on this capable 500W motor cargo bike. However, I rode the first 6 miles and watched battery life drop to 90%. So, using minimal throttle, pedal assist levels one and two, and occasionally levels 3-5 on hills, I’d expect to get roughly 60 miles on a full charge. Keep in mind that the battery may drop more quickly as it nears the end of its charge.
No Exhaustion, No Sweat
Just think… if you carried two kids or 150 pounds of cargo on a regular bicycle, you’d be exhausted long before you finished a 10-mile ride. The Flyer Via’s electric assistance lets you enjoy every moment of your ride without the dread of getting up hills or back home.
Weight Capacity
Most electric bikes allow 250-300 pounds of payload capacity. But, the Via offers up to 400 pounds total weight. So, you’ll have no trouble adding both kids and cargo.
Ultra-Long Integrated Rear Rack
The bike rack itself has a weight limit of 150 pounds and is about 26 inches long. In comparison, other rear racks are only around 14-15 inches long. You’ll see how significant this is when I show you its cargo capabilities in a minute.
Efficient All-Terrain Tire Design
These 2.4-inch puncture-resistant tires are two different sizes: 24 inches in the front and 20 inches in the rear. I didn’t feel anything unusual while riding. In truth, the tires are well-designed for hauling cargo: They lower the center of gravity and enhance stability. My test rides were smooth and efficient, even with a ton of cargo onboard.
Responsive Torque Sensor
The Flyer Via’s torque sensor is intelligently designed to match your pedaling effort, offering the ideal assistance for a smoother ride. This results in a more natural cycling experience, seamless acceleration, and enhanced battery efficiency, allowing you to maximize your adventures. I never felt out of control or jerked forward into traffic.
On-Demand Thumb Throttle
I appreciated picking up speed quickly and smoothly, despite the long body. I reached 20 mph within approximately five seconds, without being limited by individual pedal assist levels.
Hydraulic Disc Brakes
I wouldn’t expect anything less on an e-bike that carries valuable cargo. These hydraulic brakes stopped smoothly and efficiently every time, even with a load on the back rack.
Ergonomic Frame and Redesigned Fork
The Via shines with an upright seated position, a higher handlebar, and ergonomic seating and grips. The handlebar grips were comfortable and it was easy to view potential hazards while still enjoying my ride!
Unique Display
The color-coded LCD was a surprise. It provided straightforward control of pedal assist, headlight and taillights, and turn signals. It also allowed me to monitor my speed and distance.
Front and Rear Lights with Turn Signals
Good lights and signals are essential for every e-bike owner. You don’t want to get stuck in the dark on your family ride because you enjoyed yourself longer than planned.
5 Pedal Assist Levels and 7-speed Gear Shift
The Flyer Via electric cargo bike offered plenty of speed and power flexibility. I found it necessary to downshift the 7-speed gears when toting cargo uphill. This made my ride easier, protected the motor, and preserved battery life.
Now, what you’ve been waiting for…
The Flyer Via Rocks Cargo Capacity
I’m going to show you how to get the most out of the Flyer Via’s cargo capacity. The Via comes with the Kid & Cargo Hoop. Find out everything that’s included with this Flyer electric bike.
The Kid and Cargo Hoop
You’ll need the Flyer hoop to be able to add on the best cargo accessories. The cargo hoop serves as a sturdy frame for Flyer’s soft-sided cargo carriers. The hoop also lets you add up to two children old enough to hold on while riding. Just add the seat pads!
But more than just taking along your kids or grandkids, you can take a load of cargo at the same time. Check this out…
The Kid and Cargo XL Carrier
You don’t need a slow-moving Radio Flyer wagon anymore! This extra-large cargo carrier is massive! Each side of the carrier can hold up to 55 pounds and still carry a child weighing an additional 30+ pounds.
Let me lay it out. The opening is around 18X 26 inches. Each side pannier is 24 inches deep and 8 inches wide before it hits the middle rack. And, from the rack to the top of the carrier, there’s about 10 inches. If I could do the math, I would.
But, seriously, look at everything I put into it… and I still had tons of room. You can fit overnight camping gear, sports equipment, or everything you need for a day at the park.
Just fill each side pannier evenly so the bike is properly balanced.
Carry & Go Tote Bag
This is so much more than a “tote” bag. It’s roomy, soft, and perfect for shopping or carrying equipment for the day. And it’s easily switched out with the XL carrier! You can also attach this tote and carry one kid as well!
Front Basket
What I love about this soft-covered basket is that it’s all you need on short rides or when you don’t have much cargo. I tossed in my sweatshirt and camera equipment and easily dropped my helmet into it after a ride.
Even after all the amazing features discussed, there are a few considerations. It wouldn’t be a cargo e-bike review with them.
The Cons of the Flyer Via
The Via’s saddle isn’t bad. But, I’d like a wider saddle to haul heavy cargo for long distances.
Although the tires gripped well on light off-road paths, the Flyer Via lacks front suspension. Thus, if you occasionally traverse off-road paths, I’d recommend getting a good suspension seat post to smooth out the bumps. I’ve pointed you to the one I use in the description below the video.
You might also look at the Flyer Via Pro which offers suspension and other upgrades.
And, last, the Via is around 76 inches long. So, consider storage space and whether you need to transport it in your car. Want a smaller cargo bike with all the features and the ability to carry one kid or cargo? Check out my Flyer Flex review!
What You Need to Know Before Buying the Flyer Via Electric Bike
Unboxing and Assembly
I was impressed with the packaging. The Flyer Via was well-packaged with multiple squares of ultra-thick cardboard. And I didn’t find dings, scratches, or bike parts popping out of the shipping box.
Although assembly wasn’t hard, a couple of unusual steps were needed to complete it.
- You’ll have to add a steering spring. Use pliers to hook each side of the spring and ask for help… that spring is tight.
- Even if you don’t plan on carrying little ones, attach the running boards… they look sharp and can be used as support for the extra large cargo panniers.
- You need to read the instruction manual before assembling the bike if you’re adding the front basket. The headlight will be attached differently… and you won’t want to do it twice!
- Finally, adding the cargo accessories is straightforward. But plan on spending an additional hour or so before riding.
Who is the Via Electric Bike Best For?
First, it’s a perfect ebike for individual riders determined to replace their car. At $2199, it’s far less expensive than a car! Riders can run errands, carry equipment, or commute to work with everything they need in tow.
And, during my Flyer Via Cargo E-bike Review, I discovered why the Flyer™ Via™ is a must-have for families seeking convenience and outdoor adventure.
This unique electric bike is more than just a mode of transportation. With its solid performance and exceptional cargo capacity, the Via e-bike by Radio Flyer has redefined what it means to ride together as a family.
So, take your kids, cargo, and promise of happy memories and enjoy your ride on the ultimate electric family bike!
