There is a numerous physical, philosophical, environmental, and logistical reasons why it is better to ride a bicycle than to drive a car. Gas prices are rising. The Earth is on fire. And yet, somehow, it’s easy to ignore all of this when you’re late for work and you still don’t have to fight with your pants on your screaming child.
If you’re trying to reconcile your worry-free cycling days with your current life as a family driver, I highly recommend that you take an electric charging bike. Mine has transformed my life, turning my boring, daily assignment into a multitasking combination of walking and training. We have been reviewing electric bikes for a few years here at WIRED. I usually carry kids, groceries and bags from who knows what around town with some of the best (and worst) electric charging bikes around. These are our favorites.
Once you have a bike, check out our guide to riding a family bike with kids. Do you need a smaller vehicle? Check out our summary of the best electric bikes and the best bike accessories.
Updated June 2022: We removed an older selection, added an honorable mention slide, and added the Tern Quick Haul.
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