When it comes to tackling the school run, grocery trips, or weekend outings with ease and style, few tools are as transformative as a rear-loading longtail cargo e-bike. Among the many options available, the O2feel Equo series stands out as a powerful, stylish, and family-friendly range designed with urban lifestyles in mind. Whether you're navigating the narrow lanes of Fitzroy, climbing the hills of Brisbane, or cruising along the coast in Fremantle, the Equo offers a reliable alternative to car dependence in cities across Australia.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes the O2feel Equo series—including the Equo 4.1, Equo 7.1, and Equo Adventure 5.1—an excellent choice for Australian families. We’ll also compare it with other longtail electric cargo bikes like Tern, Benno, and Yuba, and explain why this French-designed cargo e-bike is winning hearts Down Under.
What Is a Rear-Loading Longtail Cargo Bike?
A rear-loading longtail cargo bike is a type of electric cargo bike (e-bike) where the cargo area extends behind the rider rather than in front. This design makes it ideal for carrying children, groceries, pets, or even surfboards—perfect for Aussie family life. Longtails offer better maneuverability than front-loading (bakfiets-style) cargo bikes and often fit better on bike racks or public transport.
They are especially appealing to urban dwellers in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and Canberra, where bike lanes and green transport incentives are making cycling a more attractive option for families.
Why Families Love the O2feel Equo Series
The O2feel Equo series combines French innovation with everyday practicality. With its step-through frame, high-capacity rear rack (up to 100kg), and long-range batteries, it’s tailored for family logistics in real-world scenarios.
Rear-Loading Design for Maximum Versatility
The 100kg rear rack capacity means you can safely carry up to two children in seats or on a padded deck, plus panniers full of groceries. The low center of gravity makes it easier to balance, even when fully loaded.
Step-Through Frame: Built for Accessibility
Mounting and dismounting is effortless, especially important when handling kids or cargo. The low standover height also appeals to riders of various heights, ensuring comfort for mums, dads, grandparents, and even older teens.
Shimano Motor Technology: A Powerhouse Performance
Each model in the Equo range is powered by high-torque Shimano motors, with torque ratings ranging from 60Nm to 85Nm. This makes climbing the hills in Hobart or the Blue Mountains a breeze—even with a full load.
Equo 4.1: Ideal for city rides and flat terrains.
Equo 7.1: Handles steeper inclines with an EP8 Cargo motor (85Nm).
Equo Adventure 5.1: For adventurous routes with a Shimano EP6 motor and front suspension fork.
Model Comparisons: Find Your Perfect Match
🚲 Equo 4.1 – Urban Simplicity
Motor: Shimano Steps EP8 Cargo (85Nm)
Battery: 432Wh
Gearing: Shimano Deore 10-speed
Best for: School runs and inner-city commutes
The 4.1 is a fantastic entry point into the cargo bike lifestyle. Perfect for inner suburbs like Newtown (NSW) or Carlton (VIC), it keeps things light and affordable.
🚲 Equo 7.1 – Power for Hilly Terrains
Motor: Shimano EP8 Cargo (85Nm)
Battery: 720Wh
Gearing: 5-speed Shimano Nexus with Gates belt drive
Best for: Families in hilly areas like Paddington, QLD, or Mount Barker, SA
This model is a workhorse, with whisper-quiet operation and easy maintenance thanks to the carbon belt drive.
🚲 Equo Adventure 5.1 – Ready for the Road Less Travelled
Motor: Shimano EP6 Cargo (85Nm)
Battery: 720Wh
Gearing: Shimano CUES 9-speed
Extras: Front suspension, Continental Cross King tires
Best for: Off-road paths and adventurous families in places like Margaret River or Tasmania's East Coast
The Adventure model adds front suspension for bumpy rides and all-terrain tires for weekend explorations.
How Does the O2feel Equo Compare to Tern, Benno, and Yuba?
Tern GSD and Benno Boost are often mentioned in the same breath as top-tier longtail cargo bikes. Here’s how the Equo stacks up:
| Feature | O2feel Equo | Tern GSD | Benno Boost | Yuba Spicy Curry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rear Load Capacity | 100kg | 80kg | 60kg | 136kg |
| Step-Through Frame | ✅ | Partial | ❌ | ✅ |
| Battery Range | Up to 230km | Up to 200km | Up to 150km | Up to 160km |
| Motor | Shimano EP8/EP6 | Bosch Cargo Line | Bosch Performance | Bosch Cargo Line |
| Price (AUD approx) | $5,500–$7,500 | $7,000+ | $6,500+ | $6,000+ |
The Equo offers more bang for your buck—especially with Shimano's powertrain, premium gears, and unmatched rear-cargo compatibility.
Real Voices, Real Rides: What Our Riders Say
🎥 Malcolm’s Story: Elwood to Everyday Freedom
Meet Malcolm, a happy Equo rider from Elwood, Victoria, who shares how the O2feel Equo transformed his daily commute and replaced short car trips entirely. In this short video, Malcolm describes how easy the bike is to handle—even with his kids on the back—and how much fun they all have riding together.
“The Equo just made sense for us. Elwood’s flat streets and bike paths are perfect for it, and I barely touch the car anymore. It’s just fun—and the kids love it.”
👉 Watch Malcolm's Testimonial Video
⭐ Trustpilot Review: Lucy’s Hillside Cargo Journey in South Australia
One of the most inspiring stories comes from Lucy, a new cargo bike rider living in a hilly area in South Australia. Here's what she shared in her ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trustpilot review:
"My lifestyle had changed from flat city commuting to wanting to ride with a toddler in a challenging area. I test rode multiple options but ended up buying a pre-loved O2feel Equo from Dutch Cargo. The service from Will in the McLaren Vale workshop, along with Emmy, Jurgen, and Yoga, was outstanding."
"As a first-time e-bike user, I’d describe the Equo as having the boost you need for hills and carrying weight. It’s a cruisey ride, and the quality is exceptional. My toddler loves the seat on the back, and the clever locking mechanism is a great touch."
"If you're buying a cargo e-bike, I highly recommend reaching out to Dutch Cargo for the right advice and expert support."
Dutch Cargo is rated Excellent on Trustpilot and continues to grow a passionate community of riders across Australia.
Where to Ride Your O2feel Equo in Australia
Melbourne
Explore the Capital City Trail or take your kids to the Royal Botanic Gardens with ample space for picnic gear.
Sydney
The Bay Run and Greenway corridor offer car-free paths perfect for cargo e-bikes.
Brisbane
Test your climbing skills up Kangaroo Point Cliffs or cruise along the Riverwalk.
Perth
Enjoy the scenic views from South Perth Foreshore to Matilda Bay with plenty of family-friendly detours.
Adelaide
From Linear Park Trail to the Coastal Park Path, Adelaide’s flat profile suits all Equo models, especially the 4.1.
Ready to Make the Switch?
There’s never been a better time to switch to an electric cargo bike. With government rebates, increasing bike infrastructure, and growing community awareness, Aussie families are embracing e-bikes like never before.
🚲 Book a Test Ride
Want to experience the Equo in real life? We offer free test rides in multiple Australian cities. Bring the kids, load up the bags, and see how it handles.
🛒 Shop Now
The Future of Family Transport Is Electric
The O2feel Equo series is more than just a bike—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you're switching from a second car or simply trying to live more sustainably, this rear-loading longtail cargo e-bike offers unmatched functionality, comfort, and value.
Add in O2feel’s 4-year battery warranty, premium Shimano components, and family-focused features, and it’s clear why more Australians are riding Equo—and why they’re sharing their stories with pride.
