In recent years, the Decathlon R500E has become a bestseller among longtail cargo bikes. The reasons were obvious: an affordable price, simple but perfectly adequate technology and an attractive design with fresh colours. This makes it all the more exciting to see what innovations its successor – the E Three 500 cargo bike from Decathlon’s own brand B’Twin – has to offer.

And to get straight to the point: the new model is actually a direct successor to the tried-and-tested R500E and not a completely new concept with the innovative Owuru motor-gearbox unit. This may come at a later date and will then probably also be priced higher. So instead of a revolution, there is a consistent further development. This is exactly where the new B’Twin E Three 500 comes in.

The E Three 500 is a cargo bike designed for maximum flexibility in everyday urban life. It is aimed at users who want to cover daily journeys such as school runs, shopping or transporting passengers with a single vehicle. The bike is intended to serve as a stable platform that combines transport capacity with electric assistance and everyday practical features.

Improved technology

A Vision hub motor in the rear wheel with up to 60 Nm of torque continues to provide the drive. Compared to its predecessor with 58 Nm of torque, this is only a small increase – but it shows that the concept has been carefully refined. The same applies to the removable battery, which now offers a capacity of 711 Wh, compared to 672 Wh in the previous model. Depending on the load, the range is specified as 50 to 85 kilometres. The bike is operated via a new and more modern colour display on the handlebars, which can also be used to set the three assistance levels of the electric drive (Eco, Normal, Boost). In addition, a start assist aid up to 6 km/h is designed to make it easier to get going, especially when fully loaded and on inclines.

With a total weight of 39 kilograms, up to 80 kilograms can be transported on the rear luggage rack, while the front transport platform – now optional – can carry up to 10 kilograms. A Suntour suspension fork with 75 millimetres of travel increases riding comfort and filters out minor bumps in the ground. Gears are shifted via an 8-speed derailleur in combination with a single chainring at the front, which is designed to be as maintenance-free and durable as possible – something we are already familiar with from its predecessor.

At the front, there is now a new 60 lux headlight mounted directly on the handlebars with automatic day/night mode, which is designed to offer a particularly wide beam angle. Clever: if you use the optional front carrier, the headlight can be mounted there – ensuring that the light cannot be obscured by any cargo. The comprehensive standard equipment is rounded off by a four-piston brake system with large 180 mm discs from Tektro, a spoke guard, footrests, a frame lock and a reinforced stand.

New accessory system

What is completely new, however, is the modular B’clip system. This allows accessories to be easily attached to and exchanged on the universal carrier platform using a quick-release fastener – without the need for tools or other adapters. One click is all it takes to switch between a basket, platform or bag. This allows the bike to be adapted to the task at hand.

The B’clip system initially consists of six modules: a seat cushion for passengers, a basket that can be mounted at the front or rear, a sturdy transport box, a flexible bag and two platforms in sizes M and XL with tension straps.

Conclusion

The new E Three 500 cargo bike takes the proven basis of the R500E and adds specific improvements, particularly to the modular accessory system. The basic principle remains the same: a comparatively affordable electric cargo bike that is highly suitable for everyday use. Whether the minor technical updates and new accessories make a decisive difference in everyday use remains to be seen in practice.

With a retail price of 2,699 euros, the cargo bike remains very affordable and is now available in three new colours: Abyss Blue, Taupe and Sorbet Green. You can order it directly here at Decathlon. And if you don’t want to have the bike delivered, you can also conveniently pick it up at your nearest store.