Kona has taken a simple approach to creating its Electric Ute cargo bike – it’s taken the template of its original Ute cargo bike… and added a motor and battery. Wonderful.
It’s a little more involved that that though, naturally. Close inspection reveals a similar look and flavour, but the frame has been optimised to integrate the Bosch 500wh battery, and the Performance Line motor putting out 250w of pedal assistance.
Kona clearly expects the workload to increase for its Ute given that there’s a motor in it now, so the fork has been strengthened along with accommodating a new tapered steerer tube for a sharper handling ride. The frame is fashioned from 6061-grade aluminium.
The long rear rack accommodates Kona’s baggage system, while mudguards and high quality Busch & Muller lights are incorporated too.
Kona says that the bike is ideally suited to be a replacement for a city car and will be up to the task for carrying the children, pets and shopping about town. The two-sided kickstand should help with topple-free standing too.
The Electric Ute also comes built up with Tektro HDM285 disc brakes, with a blend of Shimano’s Acera and Deore groupset parts. WTB supply the 27.5” wheels, along with Horizon Comp 47mm tyres.
This should offer a lot of go-anywhere grip and comfort, while the latter is also taken care of with Kona’s own Commuter seatpost and a Velo Plush saddle. Kona also supplies the cockpit too.
It certainly looks like a well-rounded cargo e-bike, and one will set you back £3,699.
That’s enough for now though – we’re looking forward to seeing just how practical the Kona Electric Ute really is around the streets of Bath.
