This electric bike trailer is clever, but suffers from a big downside

The Roland Werk company has imagined and designed an electric trailer equipped with two motors and capable of transporting large loads. Problem: its relatively high price almost makes you want to buy an electrified cargo bike instead.

Based in Germany, the Roland Werk company has made bicycle trailers its specialty. Recently, the company distinguished itself with an electrified version of its “Paxxter”, soberly titled “Paxxter e”. Here the idea is to give you the opportunity to carry heavy loads even on a muscle bike, but with less effort, relays eBikeNews.

The “Paxxter e” is available in two versions: one of 156 liters, the other of 239 liters. This trailer incorporates two 125 W motors, each placed in the hub of the 16-inch wheels. In total, the power therefore reaches 250 W, transmitted according to three levels of electrical assistance that the user must personally choose.

Remote controlled and pedaling sensor

To do this, a small remote control has been attached to the trailer: it is used both to turn the system on and off, as well as to select the mode. We could nevertheless point out its impractical aspect: the cyclist cannot switch modes during a journey, and must therefore adjust it upon departure.

To take full advantage of it, it is also necessary to place a pedaling sensor on the crank. Thus, this sensor is capable of recognizing the movement of the crankset, in order to transmit the information to the system. In doing so, the electric assistance is activated and propels you forward. The brand ensures that this push remains natural so as not to rush you.

Under the trailer, a removable 180 Wh battery serves as an energy source. The manufacturer does not communicate on the theoretical autonomy of the accumulator. Obviously, it will depend on the loads transported, but also on the mode of assistance used. In any case, this 180 Wh capacity seems really light for long-term use.

A price that stings

Let’s come to the price: and this is where it can raise eyebrows. The 156 liter version is sold at a price of 3290 euros, compared to 3390 euros for the 239 liter model. At this price, it is entirely possible to buy a longtail cargo bike, like the R500Elec from Decathlon or the Crossover Longtail from Intersport. Of course, this type of cargo ship is mainly intended for transporting children, but it can also move loads with the appropriate equipment.