Dislikes: Must purchase components separately and have bike shop assemble. Although the bike is solid-feeling, I'd argue that the snap-in, plug-and-play cargo components can't be as inherently solid over time as an all-welded design like the Mundo.
Price: $1,025 (frame and fork); bike as tested was $2,200. (877) 743-3191; www.surlybikes.com.
--
The transformer
Xtracycle FreeRadical Longtail kit: Bolt-on sub-frame that can stretch any standard bicycle into a big rig. It is credited with originating the longtail concept in 1998.
Likes: Most economical cargo-bike option, if you pair it with an old mountain bike you already own (but don't use). The FreeRadical pushes the bike's rear wheel back 15 inches. The $269 base kit includes an extra-long chain and brake and shifter cables, plus a kickstand; rack and bags add $200. Many other accessories are available, including a tandem seat, PeaPod child seat and various fabric carriers. Has a 200-pound carrying capacity, not including rider.
Dislikes: Despite feeling sturdy, it can't be as inherently stable as a purpose-built cargo bike. Must pay minor fee at bike shop for assembly.
Price: $269; $489 with rack and bags. (888) 537-1401; www.xtracycle.com.
--
Wheels of fortune
Kona AfricaBike One: Burly, simple, standard-length steel bike, only in matte black, designed for less-developed nations. Includes welded-on rear rack, snap-on handlebar cage, fenders, step-through frame, bell and theft-deterring rear hub lock.
Likes: Comfortable, upright riding position. Theft-deterring hub is a great idea. Helps the world: For every two AfricaBikes bought, Kona donates one to home healthcare workers in Africa, which reportedly enables them to cover six times more territory in a day than on foot. About 1,500 have been donated so far, Kona says.
Dislikes: One-speed drivetrain restricts breakdowns but limits range and functionality. Rack is strong, but does not include low-placed brackets that easily balance heavy, bulky items, as do the longtails above. Small size limits cargo capacity. An option: Go to Kona's aluminum-framed, rack-integrated Ute longtail ($895).
Price: $375; $449 for three-speed AfricaBike Three. (800) KONA-USA; www.konaworld.com.
--
Irvine-based endurance cyclist Roy M. Wallack is the co-author of "Bike for Life: How to Ride to 100." Reach him at roywallack@aol.com.
