I just got into this a few months ago and as a result I'm excited about it and will type a lot.
You want a two wheeled front loading bike with a large box. Why? Trikes have large boxes, but they are lame and at speed they are squirrelly. You can't really rip around a corner with one.
You absolutely need electric assist. There are multiple platforms. I use the e6100 from Shimano with Di2 XT. It's so much better than I was expecting. Far exceeds my expectations in respect to seamless integration, range, power.... I can't believe the range I get even with a 100 lbs cargo in it. Probably 50 miles. The only part I hate is the fact that the assist cuts out at 20 mph. This apparently a result some sort of European litigation.
I went with the Bullit because I wanted the more modern platform and the rigidity of aluminum. Another aluminum option available in the States is the Yuba Supermarche. The main differences is that the steering in the Yuba is cable actuated, uses a Bosch system, has a slightly shorter cargo bay, is ugly, and doesn't accept belt drive. It was a no brainer for me.
The "Holde" cargo box I use isn't available in UK, but it is 23 inches wide, has a bench for kiddos, is held together with a single truck strap and converts to a flat bed rapidly. It's absolutely amazing. You could probably make one if you have the time, but judging from your kiddos ages, you probably don't.
For my 3 month old I used a neat little seat which required a little modification for my application.... I'll eventually put pictures up. Maybe today. The toddler sits on the bench.
It's a very good set up for me because it works well for family but in about 2 minutes can convert to something I can use to carry 200 lbs of gravel from the store.
@bright
I just got into this a few months ago and as a result I'm excited about it and will type a lot.
You want a two wheeled front loading bike with a large box. Why? Trikes have large boxes, but they are lame and at speed they are squirrelly. You can't really rip around a corner with one.
You absolutely need electric assist. There are multiple platforms. I use the e6100 from Shimano with Di2 XT. It's so much better than I was expecting. Far exceeds my expectations in respect to seamless integration, range, power.... I can't believe the range I get even with a 100 lbs cargo in it. Probably 50 miles. The only part I hate is the fact that the assist cuts out at 20 mph. This apparently a result some sort of European litigation.
I went with the Bullit because I wanted the more modern platform and the rigidity of aluminum. Another aluminum option available in the States is the Yuba Supermarche. The main differences is that the steering in the Yuba is cable actuated, uses a Bosch system, has a slightly shorter cargo bay, is ugly, and doesn't accept belt drive. It was a no brainer for me.
The "Holde" cargo box I use isn't available in UK, but it is 23 inches wide, has a bench for kiddos, is held together with a single truck strap and converts to a flat bed rapidly. It's absolutely amazing. You could probably make one if you have the time, but judging from your kiddos ages, you probably don't.
For my 3 month old I used a neat little seat which required a little modification for my application.... I'll eventually put pictures up. Maybe today. The toddler sits on the bench.
It's a very good set up for me because it works well for family but in about 2 minutes can convert to something I can use to carry 200 lbs of gravel from the store.