The Xtracycle Swoop ASM is a EUR 3,856 cargo e-bike that introduces an unusual feature for the category: an automatic transmission powered by Shimano’s electronic shifting system. Rather than asking riders to pick the right gear themselves, the Swoop can hand that job to an onboard computer that reads cadence, torque, and speed to determine the optimal gear at any moment.
Most modern e-bikes already track this data, and some use it to prompt riders to change gears manually. The Shimano-based system on the Swoop takes the next step and performs the shifts on its own. After several weeks of testing, the takeaway is that the electronics are genuinely capable of recognizing when a shift should happen. The weaker point is the execution: the actual shifting process is not always smooth, which can make rides feel less refined when the automatic mode is engaged. Riders who prefer more consistency can disable the feature entirely, and with it off, the Swoop performs strongly as a cargo bike.
A Long-Tail Design Built From Steel
Xtracycle began by making cargo trailers for mountain bikes before moving into dedicated cargo bikes. The Swoop ASM is a long-tail model with a mullet setup, pairing a larger front tire with a smaller rear tire. The smaller rear wheel keeps the load carried on the large rear rack closer to the ground, while a front suspension helps absorb bumps.
One of the more distinctive choices is the frame material. The Swoop is built from steel tubes, while many manufacturers rely on a mix of carbon fiber and aluminum because those materials can be shaped identically, streamlining production. Steel still appeals to certain riders for its particular blend of weight, stiffness, and vibration dampening.
Despite its size, the bike weighs just under 70 pounds (about 31 kg), which is relatively light for a cargo model. The ride is comfortable, and the frame proved responsive when standing on the pedals to accelerate from a stop. Even with its specialized geometry, the Swoop handles like a fundamentally solid bicycle.
Fit, Battery, and Cargo Flexibility
A single frame size can only adapt so far across different body types, but Xtracycle works to widen that range. The bike uses a double-telescoping seat post to maximize the distance between the seat and pedals, giving more riders a usable fit.
The battery sits immediately behind the mid-motor, a placement that also helps keep clothing away from the chain. The cargo setup is designed for versatility as well. Even with child-hauling hardware installed, the Swoop can be converted quickly to carry groceries or other loads.
The Swoop ASM weighs just under 70 pounds and carries a price of EUR 3,856.
Source
Image: arstechnica.com
