Question 1

What tire pressure should I use for my cargo e-bike?

Accepted Answer

Cargo e-bikes typically need 24-38 PSI depending on load. Run higher pressure (toward 38 PSI) when carrying passengers or heavy cargo. The rear tire usually needs 3-5 PSI more than the front due to the rear-heavy weight distribution.

Question 2

How does cargo weight affect tire pressure?

Accepted Answer

For every 50 lbs of cargo, add approximately 2-3 PSI to your rear tire. Cargo bikes like Tern GSD, RadWagon, and Yuba have 58-62% weight on the rear, so the rear tire handles most of the load. Always stay within your tire's maximum PSI rating.

Question 3

Is it safe to carry passengers with low tire pressure?

Accepted Answer

No! Under-inflated tires with passengers is dangerous. Low pressure causes poor handling, longer braking distances, and risk of pinch flats. When carrying a child or passenger, run near maximum PSI on the rear tire and check pressure before every ride.

Question 4

Should I use different PSI for front and rear cargo bike tires?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cargo bikes have rear-biased weight distribution (typically 58-62% rear). Run 3-5 PSI higher on the rear tire than the front. When loaded with cargo or passengers, increase rear pressure further while keeping front at normal levels.

Question 5

What happens if I overload my cargo bike tires?

Accepted Answer

Overloading causes excessive tire flex, heat buildup, and accelerated wear. It can lead to blowouts, especially on hot days. Always check your bike's maximum weight capacity and never exceed the tire's max PSI rating even when heavily loaded.

Load Scenario	Rear PSI Adjustment	Example
Solo rider (no cargo)	Baseline	29 PSI
Light groceries (20-30 lbs)	+2 PSI	31 PSI
Child passenger (40-60 lbs)	+4-5 PSI	34 PSI
Heavy cargo (60-100 lbs)	+5-7 PSI	36 PSI
2 kids or max cargo (100+ lbs)	Near Max PSI	36-38 PSI

Rider Weight	Recommended PSI	Feel
140 lbs	29	Balanced
160 lbs	30	Balanced
180 lbs	31	Balanced
200 lbs	33	Balanced
220 lbs	34	Firm
240 lbs	36	Firm

Cargo E-Bike Tire Pressure Guide

Why Cargo Bike Tire Pressure Matters More

Cargo Load PSI Adjustments

Baseline PSI by Rider Weight (No Cargo)

All Cargo E-Bike Models (26)

RadWagon 4

S2

GSD S10

Load 75

Spicy Curry

Juggernaut Ultra Duo

XPedition 2

Abound LR

Abound SR

RadWagon 5

Globe Haul LT

Globe Haul ST

Quick Haul P9

HSD P5i

Vektron S10

RipRacer

PakYak E+

Boost E 10D

MadMods Cafe

Stretch

Packa Genie

Largo

Ranger

Trike-r

XPedition 1

Granite Trike

Frequently Asked Questions

Calculate Your Cargo Bike PSI

Related Guides

Fat Tire E-Bikes

Heavy Rider Guide

All E-Bike Models