Xtracycle RFA

Well perhaps it isn’t the lightest electric cargo bike out there, but without a doubt it is a lightweight full-size electric cargo bike.

With room for two out back and a Class 3 rating, the Xtracycle RFA is a steel-framed cargo cruiser. Capable of tackling just about any adventure with comfort and power.

At $5499 the RFA is worth taking the time to consider what it is you’re truly getting. Fortunately, Xtracycle delivers a top-tier cargo bike that has been thoroughly thought through for quality and performance. It offers an extremely comfortable ride thanks to the steel frame and has a solid payload capacity to graciously carry up to two kids on the rear rack.

The RFA uses a Shimano EP6 mid drive system and a Shimano 630Wh battery with an estimated range of up to 60 miles per charge.

The drivetrain is a robust Shimano Deore 10-speed that has favorable gearing for steeper terrain and pedaling with a load as the priority. When you need to slow things down and come to a stop, Tektro 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes and 180mm rotors are there to keep things under control.

Sitting on 24″ wheels, the Xtracycle takes a different approach to the mid-size longtail cargo bike scene. With 2.5″ wide tires, the RFA is extremely smooth and rolls along with precision.

The RFA has a 4130 Chromoly steel frame and weighs in at about 60lbs, nearly 20 lbs less than most other cargo bikes of this size. The steel frame is durable and robust with a max load capacity of 470 lbs. This is the greatest bike weight to load capacity ratio of any of the cargo bikes we’ve tested.

Overall length is as short as 73″, however with certain accessories or adjusting the rear axle position the RFA can be as long as 80″. With that length and this particular low step frame design, the RFA has a rider height range of 5’3″ to 6’3″. On either end of the height range, Xtracycle give two additional options at checkout for two different fit kits that offer shorter or longer stems and seatposts.

The Shimano EP6 is a top shelf drive unit seen on many of the highest quality bikes in various categories. Sharing many properties with the EP8, the EP6 has ample power and is more than capable of relieving the burden from riders even if they’re pushing the maximum weight capacities of the RFA.

When it comes to range, unloaded we found the RFA to be quite gracious with it’s estimated range in Full Turbo. On our 12 mile test loop, the RFA consistently reported 18 miles remaining, again in Full Turbo. Flipping the switch and adding some weight to the cargo bike, estimations reflected a decrease in overall range, which is to be expected. These numbers and the overall average speed on the 12 mile test loop were nearly negligible in the end and with multiple other PAS modes, getting over 30 miles per charge loaded up seems accurate.

The Xtracycle RFA comes in two available configurations. On test we had the Class 3 rated Shimano EP6 with Shimano drivetrain for $5499.

Coming in at $4999 (currently on sale for $4499), is the Class 1 rated Shimano EP8 powered RFA. It shares all of the same component specifications as the Class 3 model with the exception of a SRAM NX 11-Speed drivetrain.

The Xtracycle RFA is the cyclists cargo bike. Let me explain. As part of our grand cargo bike roundup, we all equally shared the same feelings about the RFA.

This is a cargo bike for cyclists. The steel frame likely the culprit for this feeling. The RFA delivers a comfortable and intuitive riding experience that is synonymous with the urban bikes we’ve come to love over the years.

Xtracycle does a great job at constructing a beautiful steel framed bike that isn’t overflowing with integration and molded designs. This may lead some people to feel as though the RFA looks dated more than the rest. However, for those diehard cyclists who love the classic lines of a steel framed bike, the RFA is just the ticket.

Of course, familiar brands like Shimano and Tektro speak to experienced cyclists as components they can trust and have experience with.

When it comes to comfort and handling, the RFA is smooth as butter thanks to that steel frame. While cruising around town riders are sat in a very comfortable upright position with nice swooping handlebars to keep your arms relaxed.

Charging down hills or needing to make quick decisions on the road to avoid any obstacles, the RFA dances around with an elegance similar to many vintage steel road bikes I’ve ridden over the years.

While $5499 may put it out of reach from many, Xtracycle leaves little to be desired as far as upgrading components goes. Accessories on the other hand are something that you will find yourself exploring the endless options the Xtracycle has to offer. Fortunately, Xtracycle now offers a handful of essential accessories that will come with the RFA, making it really a good deal for such a quality bike.

All in all, Xtracycle has targeted the cargo bike scene in offering great solutions for bikes that are well thought out and deliver the ideal cargo bike experience. When it comes to urban and cargo bikes, the last thing we are interested in doing is needing to upgrade parts immediately or change some parts that come on the bike for more specific ones. Thankfully the RFA comes perfectly setup with a spec that’s ready to tackle years to come.

Price: $5499
Colors: Gloss Off-White, Matte Black
Weight: 60lbs
Load Capacity: 470 lbs
Website: xtracycle.com