Product news: Since the introduction of the compact Packster 40 last season, the Riese & Müller Packster has been available in three sizes, some of which differ significantly in terms of their respective areas of use. We took a closer look at the models and revealed where which Packster feels most comfortable.
Riese & Müller Packster: Three sizes, three areas of application
The Packster series from Riese & Müller offers prospective buyers more than a dozen different equipment variants, which are divided into three basic models: Packster 40, Packster 60 and Packster 80. The numbers indicate the length of the loading area; even if there are "only" 20cm between them, you still get three clearly different e-cargo bikes, which were also designed for different areas of application. From the compact runabout to the heavy-duty bike.
The basic principle and equipment are almost identical for all three basic variants: steering via deflector, Bosch motors, optionally as an S-Pedelec and even with a dual battery for a long range despite the high system weight.
packster 40
Length loading area: 40cm
Overall length: 2,23m
Weight: about 30kg
Permissible system weight: 160kg
Price: from € 3.999
packster 60
Length loading area: 60cm
Overall length: 2,44m
Weight: about 35kg
Permissible system weight: 200kg
Price: from € 4.499
packster 80
Length loading area: 80cm
Overall length: 2,66m
Weight: about 36,5kg
Permissible system weight: 200kg
Price: from € 4.599
Riese & Müller Packster: Variable thanks to its modular design
Versatile bikes require - especially in the field of cargo bikes - flexible equipment. This doesn't just refer to the components: In short, all Packster models offer the choice between classic derailleur gears or NuVinci hub gears, between Bosch Active Cruise, Performance CX or Performance Speed for S-Pedelecs.

Things get exciting with the loading area: You can opt for a classic wooden box, open wooden planks, for child seat inserts or even a complete hood. The possibilities are diverse and contribute to the flexible application possibilities of the e-cargo bikes.
Riese & Müller Packster 40: Compact newcomer
Ever since it was presented at last year's Eurobike, the compact Packster 40 has been the shooting star in Riese & Müller's cargo portfolio. No wonder: With its compact dimensions, its relatively low weight and wide range of uses, it is also suitable for people who have only waved the thought of a cargo bike off until now.
In concrete terms, compact means: the 40 cm long loading area reduces the overall length of the bike to 2,23 m, which means that the Packster 40 is almost in the range of conventional bikes. The same applies to the width - the compact cargo bike is just as wide as a normal bike. We were able to experience during our test that this also has a positive effect on the handling. It is also clear that there is no space for large and bulky objects on the compact loading area - but there is more than enough space for larger purchases, a crate of drinks or a child's seat. Thanks to clever additional equipment such as the "glove compartment" hidden in the floor, the area of use can be expanded even further.
Test: Riese & Müller Packster 40 – The station wagon among e-bikes
The compact dimensions are accompanied by another advantage that should not be underestimated in everyday life: the weight. At just under 30kg, the Packster 40 is really light for an e-cargo bike, which can be particularly helpful when parking in narrow basements or at the supermarket. With a maximum permissible system weight of 160kg, there is enough headroom to be able to transport heavy goods safely and without a stomach ache.
Riese & Müller Packster 60: The all-rounder
If the small loading area of the Packster 40 is not enough or you simply like the option of being able to load a little more onto the bike, the Packster 60 is probably the right model from the manufacturer from Darmstadt. The loading area here is 60 cm long and also noticeably wider than on its little brother. For example, with the appropriate insert, two children can easily be accommodated next to each other.
The additional storage space is of course also noticeable in the dimensions. With a length of just under 2,5m and a weight of 35kg, it is more in the familiar range of other e-cargo bikes. The handling therefore needs some getting used to and maneuvering in the tight everyday traffic is not always easy - thanks to the generous permissible total weight of 200kg, you can also store bulky purchases here without any worries.
Riese & Müller Packster 80: Would you like a little more?
If the space offered by the 60 Packster is still not enough, the Packster 80 is an option that is a rarity on the market. In the optional box on the 80cm long loading area, there is space for four large crates of drinks, for example - this makes the largest Packster offspring particularly interesting as a professional vehicle or as a full-fledged replacement car.
Of course, such a large amount of space is also reflected in the overall dimensions: With a little practice, the 2,66m long wheel needs to be maneuvered through the curves and at almost 37kg it is nice and nimble thanks to the powerful Bosch drive, but it is a bit more difficult to park by hand to handle than its two smaller sister models.