Longtail bikes! They are becoming quite popular as people become more interested in carrying things on our bikes for commuting, touring or running errands. Some bike pundits are predicting that we may see a lot more longtail bikes in the future.

Longtail bikes are feature a long wheel base for more space on the rear luggage rack. They usually have a strong frame and wheels to carry more weight on and around the rear wheel.

Longtail bikes offer better handling than bike equipped with bike trailers or pannier — they do not fall over as easily because they are designed to have a low center of gravity.

Here’s a round-up of some of the longtail bikes available today:

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Bikes trailers are very useful for transforming ordinary bikes into serious load carrying vehicles. Bikes can tow a remarkable amount of weight. Loads in excess of 880 pounds (400 kilograms) have been hauled behind bikes along flat surfaces. Generally though, 300 pounds (140 kilograms) is considered the upper threshold for hauling. Full-sized refrigerators or couches that won’t fit in a car can comfortably be pulled behind a bicycle with the right kind of trailer.

Let’s take a look at the various types of bike trailers available: (more…)

The Xtracycle is a 15-inch bike extender with dual racks. It turns standard bikes into practical transportation devices, capable of carrying sizable loads. (more…)

Russ Roca has posted a great review of the Bilenky cargo bike on his Bike Commuters site. After 300 miles of test riding, he says the Bilenky is better than the Xtracycle or LongJohn cargo bikes.