The Riese & Müller Load 60 is a premium electric cargo bike that combines exceptional design, impressive performance, and functionality. Ideal for urban commuting, transporting goods, or family trips, this e-bike stands out for its robust build and innovative features. In this review, we will discuss its specs, price, availability, design, performance, battery life, and available accessories.
Specs Overview
| Specifications | Details |
| Motor | Bosch Cargo Line (Generation 4) |
| Battery | Bosch PowerPack 500 (DualBattery option) |
| Range | Up to 124 miles (with DualBattery) |
| Display | Bosch Intuvia Display |
| Max Load Capacity | 441 pounds on the bike (rider’s weight included) |
| Gears | Enviolo 380 continuous hub gear |
| Brakes | Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes |
| Tires | Schwalbe Big Ben Plus, puncture-resistant |
| Suspension | Front suspension fork and rear suspension |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Price | Starting from $9,329 |
Price & Availability
The Riese & Müller Load 60 Vario HS starts at $10,449, making it one of the higher-end models in their lineup. However, depending on the additional accessories and upgrades you choose, the price can increase significantly. For example, the model tested for this review cost $12,315 after adding various customizations.
For those looking for a more affordable option, the Load 60 Touring starts at $9,329. You can fully configure your Load 60 on the Riese & Müller website, selecting from various models and accessories to suit your needs. Once you’ve finalized your configuration, you can submit a purchase request, and a local dealer will contact you to confirm your build and complete the purchase process.
Design and Build Quality
The Riese & Müller Load 60 Vario HS stands out in the cargo bike market with its robust and high-quality build, integrating both front and rear suspension for enhanced comfort. Unlike many other cargo bikes, it features:
- Front Suspension: 70mm travel SR Suntour suspension fork
- Rear Suspension: 80mm travel X-Fusion shock
The bike also comes with two different-sized wheels:
- Rear Wheel: 26 inches
- Front Wheel: 20 inches
Both wheels are equipped with Schwalbe city riding tires, though you can upgrade to knobby tires for off-road adventures.
Key Features:
- Motor: Bosch Cargo Line Speed motor
- Battery: Bosch PowerPack 500 with an optional spare battery ($1,166 additional)
- Drivetrain: Enviolo internally geared hub connected via a Gates Carbon Drive belt, which provides a smooth and quiet ride
- Shifting: Non-indexed shifting system for variable resistance
- Display: Bosch Nyon head unit with full color, showing battery range, speed, assist level, and more
Additionally, the bike comes equipped with practical accessories like an integrated rear rack, front and rear lights, and a loud horn for navigating urban traffic.
The cargo box is 60cm (24 inches) long and has a maximum payload capacity of 441 pounds (rider included). You can configure the cargo box with high sidewalls, a hard cover, or other customizations depending on your needs.
Performance
Equipped with the powerful Bosch Cargo Line motor, the Load 60 delivers outstanding torque, making it suitable for hilly terrains and long-distance trips. The Enviolo 380 continuous hub gear allows for seamless shifting, which is particularly important when riding with varying cargo weights. The bike offers five levels of pedal assist, which you can adjust via the intuitive Bosch Intuvia Display.
The Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes ensure responsive braking, even in wet conditions or under heavy loads. Combined with the Schwalbe Big Ben Plus tires, which offer puncture resistance and a smooth ride, the Load 60 offers excellent handling and control.
Battery Life & Range
The Riese & Müller Load 60 Vario HS is equipped with a Bosch PowerPack 500 battery, providing excellent range and power for daily commuting or cargo hauling. The range can be extended with the addition of an optional spare battery, priced at $1,166, significantly increasing its versatility for longer rides.
The bike’s performance in terms of battery life depends on factors such as terrain, load, and assist level. With a single Bosch PowerPack 500, riders can expect solid performance across various conditions. For those requiring even more range, additional accessories like extra batteries are available for purchase during the configuration process.
Accessories
There are also several other purpose-built accessories for the Load 60, such as:
- Locks for added security
- Head unit upgrades like the Bosch Nyon display
- Tire upgrades, starting at $59
For cargo customization, options range from:
- Child seats for the cargo area
- Low sidewalls with an open cargo area
- High sidewalls with a rain cover or a hardshell top
These accessories make the Load 60 adaptable for a wide range of uses, ensuring riders can select configurations best suited to their needs.
Verdit
The Riese & Müller Load 60 is more than just a cargo bike; it’s a powerful tool for urban mobility. With its impressive Bosch motor, large battery capacity, and sturdy build quality, it’s designed for riders who demand the best in both performance and durability. The starting price of $9,329 reflects its premium positioning, but the bike’s versatility and long-term durability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about electric cargo bikes.
