Nakamura Crosscity+ Review: Best Electric Cargo Bike for Kids on the Market?

Purchasing an electric cargo bike is a significant investment for a small family. To find a budget-friendly option, one must consider second-hand models or more affordable new models like the Nakamura Crosscity+. Intersport provides an alternative to the traditional longtail with a midtail format, priced under 2,200 euros.

It’s 700 euros cheaper than the larger Nakamura Longtail, but does that mean it compromises on features? With a central motor, substantial rear load capacity, 80 km range, and comprehensive included equipment, this enhanced VAE (Electrically Assisted Vehicle) appears to be fully featured. But what is it really like in practical use? Frandroid put it to the test in various situations over several weeks.

Technical Sheet

A Lightweight Two-Seater, Suitable for a (Small) Adult

The Nakamura Crosscity+ is a midtail electric cargo bike. This design choice is seen in the extended frame from the seat tube to the rear wheel. However, the 24-inch wheels keep the bike’s total length to 1.81 m, equivalent to a standard bike.

This design doesn’t add bulk while increasing load capacity: it can carry up to 160 kg, including 60 kg at the rear (or two children) and 10 kg on the included front basket. This includes the weight of the bike, which is actually higher than stated: 28.3 kg instead of 25 kg. Still, this is less than typical longtails.

Indeed a two-seater, the Crossity+ can only carry a small adult, who benefits from retractable footrests and side wheel guards (though the fittings could be improved). The handle under the seat, useful for lifting the bike, helps maintain the passenger’s balance over short distances, but a proper mini-handlebar would be needed for longer rides.

The open frame design allows for easy mounting, with a step-over height of 45 cm from the ground, which could have been lower if not for the bulky motor.

Just 16 kg Fully Equipped

The double central kickstand is convenient for mounting without issues, but it could be more stable. The equipment generally meets expectations, with passenger amenities, battery-linked lighting—bright with a wide beam—and mudguards, though a longer front mudguard would better protect the feet. The rear rack is compatible with MIK attachments, which is a clever feature!

A Small Color Display and a Supporting App

The display of the Nakamura Crosscity+ is familiar, as it is used on other models from the brand. Although small, it is colorful, well-lit, and offers excellent visibility both at night and in direct sunlight.

The display includes information such as distance traveled, duration, maximum or average speed, human/motor power, consumption, and average/maximum speed. A menu allows for the modification of a large number of data points, as well as battery health checks or changes to the automatic assistance mode.

The Naka E-Power app is a welcome addition to the somewhat imprecise battery gauge on the display, offering a percentage indicator. It also includes trip recording (not automatic), during which a multi-data counter highlights the map, and provides some statistics in the summary.

A Powerful Central Motor

To propel a small family, the Nakamura Crosscity+ is equipped with a central motor. The Naka E-Power One isn’t as torque-rich as the “Max” model found on the Crossover Longtail (70 vs 100 Nm), but it still delivers impressive performance. Even in the intermediate “Sport” mode, it suffices on flat surfaces and moderate slopes, at least when riding solo. For steep inclines, the maximum “Boost” mode is necessary, especially with a passenger.

We tested it with a 60 kg passenger; the assistance is gentle at start-up to avoid jolting at the first pedal stroke, and remains supportive otherwise. It operates quietly and feels very natural, thanks to a good torque sensor. It’s unfortunate that the Shimano Altus 8-speed derailleur transmission—which is otherwise versatile—often needs adjustments, leading to skipped gears.

Good Stability, but Comfort Could Be Improved for Two

The passenger might find the ride a bit rough as they feel every road imperfection like speed bumps, curb jumps, or potholes. The stability is quite good, but a more rigid model (like the Yuba Mini Boda Boda) or a true longtail might perform better.

With wide tires (2.4 inches), the electric cargo bike remains enjoyable to ride alone, with its passive riding position and generously cushioned seat with integrated springs. Its Tektro hydraulic disc brakes are also effective, allowing for stopping within about 3 meters at 25 km/h (without a passenger).

A 50 km Ride with Two

To keep the weight reasonable, the Nakamura Crossity+ doesn’t overdo it with the battery. Its 504 Wh capacity is said to provide 80 km of range according to the manufacturer, likely in the minimal (Eco) mode. Our tests showed varying results depending on the conditions. We observed a higher consumption of over 10 Wh/km at 10°C in the rain with a 60 kg passenger in Smart mode (resulting in less than 50 km of autonomy), and about 60 km in maximum Boost mode when riding solo at 12°C.

The Smart mode alone reaches up to 75 km with milder temperatures, and even 89 km at 20°C in intermediate Sport mode.

As mentioned, the display gauge is rather vague, lacking a bar indicator, but it’s possible to show the estimated theoretical range (which changes according to use, not the engaged mode). The app displays the percentage for more accuracy. During charging, the battery level can also be checked on both devices, which is convenient.

Moreover, the included charger is fast, with a 4 A current (or 168 W of power). Due to the 14 Ah capacity, it only takes 1.5 hours to regain half of the energy, and 3.5 hours for a full recharge. Be aware, the charger is quite bulky, but it doesn’t overheat excessively.

Highly Affordable Pricing and Assembled in France

The Nakamura Crosscity+ has been available since early 2025, both on the official website and in Intersport stores. It is priced at 2,199.99 euros without promotions, including the visible equipment on the electric bike, except for the Abus folding lock. Note that it is available in only one size and in the color white.

Like other Intersport Nakamura VAEs, the Crosscity+ features a frame and fork with a lifetime warranty. The assistance has a standard 2-year warranty, while the electric bike is assembled in France at the MFC factory in Machecoul (Loire-Atlantique).