The Riese & Müller Load4 75: A Deep Dive
The Riese & Müller Load4 75 is an electric cargo bike that’s different from most. While technically an e-bike, it has more storage space than a Toyota Corolla, a wheelbase similar to a classic Mini, and a price tag comparable to a used car. This makes it a unique machine, and it’s worth exploring what it offers.
As an e-bike enthusiast and contributor to InsideEVs, I decided to test out this unconventional bike to see if it balances utility, performance, and style in a way that justifies its cost. The verdict is a bit of both.
(Full disclosure: The team at Propel Bikes, an e-bike dealer, lent me the Load4 for a few days for this review.)
Key Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery | 725 Wh (standard) / 1,450 Wh (optional dual) |
| Electric Range | 40-50 miles (single) / 80-100 miles (dual) |
| Drivetrain | Bosch Performance Line mid-drive motor, Gates drive belt, Rohloff 14-speed internal hub with electronic shifting |
| Charge Time | 20-80% in approx. 2 hours (dual battery) |
| Base Price (As Tested) | $13,929 ($16,432) |
Understanding the Load4 75
The name of the Load4 75 is as long as its 79-inch (2.0 meter) wheelbase. This fourth generation front-loader cargo bike from Riese & Müller features a 30-inch (760 mm) front cargo box, powered by a Bosch mid-drive motor and a Rohloff 14-speed internal gear hub.
This design is called a “bakfiets,” or “box bike.” The cargo box can be configured to carry up to three small children or can be fitted with higher walls and a foldable cover for more cargo. You can also remove the seats to accommodate a larger pet or an average-sized adult. A small, enclosed storage compartment is built into the floor of the box, ideal for storing bags and other items. Parents can also add a rain canopy for protection. For extra carrying capacity, there’s a rear rack for panniers.
Considering the Cost
While the Load4 75 has a high price tag, it’s important to consider the costs associated with car ownership – depreciation, fuel, and insurance. For some, a $16,000 e-bike might not seem like a money-saver. However, cargo bikes can be more affordable than cars and can reduce the number of miles driven.
Final Thoughts
The Load4 75 isn’t for everyone. It’s a niche vehicle, but it’s one that’s clearly designed with a specific purpose in mind. While there are more practical and affordable electric cargo bikes available, the Load4 stands out as an interesting option.
Would I buy it? Probably not right now, as I don’t have $16,000 to spend. However, Riese & Müller is offering more accessible models, and I’m hopeful that they will deliver good value in the future.
I’m Rohan Mehta, the voice behind KhelRe—a trusted and steadily growing blog dedicated to electric vehicles (EVs) in India. With over five years of experience as a tech and automotive blogger, I turned my frustrations with owning an EV into a mission: to help others make more intelligent choices in this fast-evolving world of electric mobility.
I’ve been an early adopter of EV technology—I repurchased my first electric scooter in 2019. That experience opened my eyes to both the promises and the pitfalls of this new mode of transport. From slow charging times and range anxiety to misleading specs and hidden costs, I’ve faced it all. But instead of walking away, I decided to write about it.
That’s how KhelRe was born—a no-nonsense, hands-on blog where I share practical, real-world reviews of EV cars, bikes, and scooters. I break down features, range, performance, and pricing from a user-first perspective. I take pride in simplifying complex tech into clear, valuable insights—offering tips, ownership stories, and advice you won’t find in flashy press releases or sales brochures.
Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or just a curious auto enthusiast, my goal is to help you navigate the EV landscape with confidence. My motto: “EV knowledge should come from experience, not just brochures.”
When I’m not test-driving the latest e-scooter or comparing charging networks, you’ll probably find me tinkering with my garage EV setup, chatting with fellow enthusiasts online, or sipping chai while writing my next blog post from a cosy local café.
