# Weigh It Down, Zap Around: Xtracycle Swoop 2.0 Cargo E-Bike Review
In 1995, Ross Evans, a Stanford University undergraduate, traveled to Nicaragua with Bikes Not Bombs to explore the potential of bicycles in rural communities. This is where the long-tail cargo bike concept originated. In 1998, Evans launched the Xtracycle brand with the FreeRadical extension kit product to convert standard bikes into long-tail cargo bikes.
In 2006, Xtracycle partnered with Surly to produce the first full-frame long-tail bicycle, the Big Dummy. Xtracycle released its own longtail, the Radish, in 2007. Swoop was introduced in 2017, with a step-through frame. Now, after 6 years, Xtracycle is launching the next generation of the long-tail Swoop with two versions and various upgrades.
I’ve been using the Xtracycle Swoop 2.0 since early December, riding it with all forms of cargo around Boulder, Colo. It has proven to be a valuable and super-useful addition to my family of four.
In short: Xtracycle innovated the long-tail cargo bike concept 25 years ago. The new Swoop is now available in Class 1 (20 mph max) and a Class 3 version featuring the Shimano EP6 series drive system with a 28 mph max assist. Riding the Swoop 2.0 felt like riding a regular bike rather than an electric moped, making it the top pick for my family out of the five cargo bikes we’ve tested so far.
## Xtracycle Swoop 2.0 Configuration
The Swoop is named for the low, swooping step-through frame. The step-over height of 18 inches made it easy to mount. The steel frame’s geometry is upright and relaxed, providing comfort for both my wife (5’9”) and me (5’11”). The handlebar offered excellent steering control, and the Shimano Tektro hydraulic disc brakes were smooth and responsive.
What impressed me the most about the Swoop 2.0 was how it rode like a bicycle. It felt much more engaging to manage the gears compared
