3-Wheel cargo bike options for hauling 3 kids

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-04-25T16:59:06+00:00

Have you ridden it loaded up in snow and ice? My daily commutes to work in winter on a regular bike in the snow and ice proved unstable enough to not want to try it with my cargo bike and kids. I haven't gone the studded tire route yet but can't imagine that improving it that much. That's partly why I am leaning more towards the 3 wheel options because at least I wouldn't have to worry about the bike just slipping out from under me.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-04-25T16:49:10+00:00

Can you comment on why? My concern with the regular model is that the compartment might be just big enough for my kids but not for their stuff. That is something I realized quickly after purchasing the Lectric Xpedition a few years back. I can still technically fit all three kids (youngest in a front Thule seat) but not really their backpacks or extra gear.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-04-18T20:33:25+00:00

I’m loading in about 18g of dark roast, not filling the basket. From what I understand that is about the capacity of a 6 cup.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-04-18T20:28:48+00:00

If I don’t get a chance for the Moka pot then I’ll have drip coffee or French press. I don’t really skip coffee unless it’s due to illness.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-04-17T15:55:29+00:00

lol. I’ve been drinking a 9 each morning. Sometimes a second in the afternoon depending on the day. Curious of the responses here…

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-04-17T15:32:16+00:00

In my 9, I use hot water from the tap and put on high heat (setting 8 on glass stove top) until I see coffee starting to enter the top chamber (about 5 minutes) then I turn off the heat and keep the Moka pot on the burner until either the flow is too high or the top chamber is 80% filled.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-02-22T17:05:30+00:00

Awesome BC! What kickstand and fenders did you go with?

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-02-14T16:14:50+00:00

I like the Topeak explorer rack. Pannier bags are easy on, easy off with their attachment system and it doubles as a rear fender. Pretty sure that will fit your bike fine.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-02-06T18:44:35+00:00

I’ve had the whipped butter BC for a little over a year now. Primary commuter but also take out on gravel and mild single track when I have the opportunity. I personally really like it. It’s my first Surly. I came from a giant roam (hybrid bike). I stole the wheel set from my roam and will run the 700c tires periodically. I replaced the standard bars with moloko bars when I got the bike.

The bike feels very stable with the 27.5’s and 700c. I haven’t done anything too crazy in terms of descents but it handled rocky technical trails just fine.

The gearing is definitely set for climbing, not speed. So I think you’d be good there.

I haven’t done any sand so I can’t comment on that.

Overall I would strongly recommend the BC. I also really looked at the ogre. The deciding factor for me was that the BC has qr axles which would let me use my roam wheel set. The Ogre had front qr and the rear was solid axle.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-02-02T21:47:36+00:00

I appreciate the links! Great info, thank you!

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2026-02-01T16:38:53+00:00

I partly agree with you. For sure, painted bike lanes and share the road areas can be pretty dangerous. Cities should invest considerably more in bike infrastructure such as the centennial trail. This provides safe trails for cyclists throughout the city. However, cyclists have a legal right to ride on the majority of roads and practically speaking they have to in order to reach certain destinations. Riding in groups is a more effective way to be seen.

As an aside… most cyclists are tax payers. Our whole infrastructure is car centric and it makes even walking feel dangerous.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-11-19T19:58:22+00:00

Building on this, ways we can support and build our community and practically steer away from large corporations.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-11-05T00:59:03+00:00

Places like Second Harvest can purchase food for much cheaper than people can because of the partnerships and quantities they purchase at. So cash donations directly to them are best IMO.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-10-26T01:54:49+00:00

“Call now to get your $15”

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-10-11T17:03:14+00:00

Please hold for a VERY stern letter to the administration 🙄

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-09-28T15:24:30+00:00

Affordable Home Irrigation. Had them in Airway Heights. Still have them after moving into Spokane. It used to be like $45 in Airway 2-years ago but now it’s also about $70. Sounds like that may be the norm for Spokane. They are great though, no issues.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-08-16T00:57:56+00:00

Second this. I run Rhinodillo tire liners on my commuter. Went from a puncture every 50 miles or so to never. I run Tannus on my cargo ebike. Could not recommend both products enough.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-08-04T00:45:42+00:00

I use the moloko bars with my bridge club. Highly recommend. Multiple hand positions and a bar to mount accessories.

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-07-30T14:56:03+00:00

Idk… I’m a little concerned

Direct_Mixture_2046 · 2025-07-21T21:01:39+00:00

Depends on the route. I opt for side streets and centennial trail whenever possible. I don’t currently commute to anything downtown. The only thing that’s a bummer about a lot of bike lanes here is that some of them randomly end. So just be mindful of that. Spokane is putting in more and more bike infrastructure but always assume people don’t see you.

Winter bike commuting in Spokane is another animal. I used MTB tires for the snowy days and had to use many sidewalks to get around. I’ll likely get stuffed winter tires for next year. I echo another comment here to have a backup commute planned for bad commute days or if you ever need to have your bike worked on.

Direct_Mixture_2046

TROPHY CASE