The Douze Cycles Hêta 2S CUES Di2 Cargo Bike on Test – Ready for Heavy Duty!

Let’s get one thing straight: Douze Cycles are anything but ordinary! The Douze Cycles Hêta 2S CUES Di2 is a serious machine – both in looks and weight. The brand promises a mix of heavy-duty hauler and nimble family bike. Sounds bold, but does it actually deliver?

Since 2012, Douze Cycles have forged a reputation for their innovative cargo bikes from their base in Ladoix-Serrigny, France. Specialising solely in cargo bikes, they offer two other models alongside the Hêta. Innovations like the first cable steering system for cargo bikes have helped Douze make a name for itself in the cargo category. Since late 2023, the company has also been working with Toyota, selling a version of the Hêta through 300 French dealerships, which also handle maintenance.

The term bike forge fits the Hêta perfectly. Its modular main frame is made using aluminium die casting, produced in France with recycled French aluminium. This makes manufacturing more expensive, but also more sustainable. From an environmental perspective, this cargo bike is a real hot topic, but more on that later. That strong focus on sustainability doesn’t drive the price through the roof, though. Our test model, equipped with a large plastic cargo box, with a double child seat and soft cover, comes in at a market-standard € 7,158.

The Hêta’s specs are just as solid as its frame. Douze equip this cargo carrier with Shimano’s EP6 Cargo motor, delivering a punchy 85 Nm of torque. The 630 Wh battery is there to prevent a weighty problem – literally – since our test model weighs in at a hefty 61.2 kg. With a max system weight of 250 kg, running out of juice would be the last thing you want. Thankfully, the motor provides plenty of power. Meanwhile, the 10-speed automatic Di2 shifting keeps the focus where it belongs – on the road and the load.

What Makes the Douze Cycles Hêta Special?

In an era of rampant greenwashing, scepticism toward sustainability claims is understandable. But with the Douze Hêta, we found solid proof instead of empty promises. It all starts with a life cycle analysis, assessing the bike’s environmental impact from production to disposal, leading to optimizations at every stage.

The most striking result? Its multi-part aluminium die-cast frame. Instead of welding, Douze pours 100% recycled aluminum into a mould, then refines it after cooling. The result? A chic, seamless design that’s as stylish as it is sturdy. This innovative process gives the Hêta the strength and durability needed for a long-haul cargo bike, without compromising on aesthetics or sustainability.

Flexibility Rules the Hêta

“Divide and conquer” could be the Douze Hêta’s motto – but not in a political sense. Here, modularity boosts sustainability, versatility, and longevity.

The first feature of this kind will thrill tinkerers, and it’s genuinely innovative: the entire motor system is replaceable. Unlike most ebikes, the mid-drive motor mounts to a separate bracket, rather than bolting directly to the frame. In theory, any compatible motor could be swapped in, though Douze don’t currently offer alternative mounts, so anyone looking to upgrade would need to get creative. The battery, mounted externally on the head tube, is also easy to replace with another model.

Another smart touch: the elevated chainstays allow for seamless belt drive installation. That’s not a given, as many bikes route the chain through a closed rear triangle – and unlike a chain, a belt can’t be split open.

Flexibility, Part Two: the entire bike can be split into two large sections. This makes storage easier – especially in winter – and allows transport on bike trailers with sufficient load capacity. As a car alternative for camper trips, the Douze Hêta opens up exciting possibilities for summer vacations or long road trips, provided you have enough space to stow it.

Last but not least: all 17 components of the Douze are individually replaceable, meaning a single damaged part doesn’t require you to replace the whole bike. Overall, a well-thought-out concept that sets new standards in repairability and sustainability.

Heavy-duty hauler or family ride?

The Douze Hêta 2S CUES Di2 can be used in two ways: as a pure cargo workhorse with a spacious open loading area (85 × 60 cm) or, like our test model, as a family-friendly all-rounder with a large cargo box (78 × 52 × 47 cm). The base version as a cargo bike starts at €6,190. For those hauling heavy loads and wanting to protect the loading surface, a protective plate with sturdy tie-down loops is available for an additional € 179.

The shock-resistant, insulated EPP plastic box of the Family/Allround model is recyclable and adds another € 680 to the price. It holds less bulky cargo, but can fit two to three children, depending on their age and size. A matching double child seat with magnetic three-point harnesses is available in the configurator for € 198. A third child in the box would have to ride without a seatbelt. A smart sustainability touch: the seat padding is made from leftover material from the box production. Another child can ride in a standard child seat on the rear rack, which supports up to 25 kg. And since the Hêta is approved for bike trailers, you could even tow two more kids in a pinch, bringing the total to six. Pas mal!

No excuses – even in bad weather. Douze offer a wind and rain cover for the cargo box for € 345. To keep other loads protected, there are two cover options: a water repellent soft cover (€ 90), secured with Velcro straps, and a lockable hard cover (€ 330), which lets you safely leave items in the bike.

The lights are high quality, but there’s room for improvement. The front light lacks high and low beams, and there’s no brake light in the rear – features that are becoming more common in this price range.

The Douze Cycles Hêta in our Real-World Test

We had plenty of time to put the Douze Hêta through its paces. And let’s get this out of the way: whether heavily loaded, on an afternoon trip with two kids and all the inevitable gear, or tackling city errands, the Hêta kept surprising us – in a good way. Plus, it was a blast to ride.

Despite its size and weight, the Douze offers a surprisingly agile and nimble ride. In terms of maneuverability, it even outperforms shorter and lighter cargo bikes, thanks to its excellent cable steering system. The steering does feel a bit different at first, as there’s a slight delay between input and bike response. However, this delay is consistent and predictable, making it easy to get used to. In the end, the benefits outweigh any initial adjustment. With an impressive 75-degree steering angle, the Hêta can almost pivot on the spot – perfect for tight corners and tricky manoeuvres in the city.

No question – the Hêta needs a powerful motor to handle everything it’s built to carry. While the Shimano EP6 Cargo isn’t Shimano’s top-tier motor, it performed flawlessly in our test, even with a system weight of over 200 kg.

A big plus is the cargo-specific firmware, which makes a noticeable difference when starting or pedaling at low cadences. Compared to the standard version of the motor, it delivers power to the pedals more quickly, making heavy loads much easier to manage.

That said, if you regularly push the 250 kg weight limit, especially in hilly terrain, you might want to go for the model with the stronger Shimano EP8 Cargo motor. It also delivers 85 Nm of torque, but packs a bit more overall power. You won’t notice much difference when starting off, but with a full load, the EP8 will get you up steep hills faster.

The Shimano STEPS EN600 display on the handlebar feels a bit old-school, and it’s not the sleekest setup, but it wins points for its straightforward operation. Unlike some modern systems, it features dedicated buttons for key functions like lights and walk assist – definitely a practical touch.

The 630 Wh battery proved reliable throughout our test rides. Even a full day out with kids and cargo over Stuttgart’s hilly terrain was no problem. The charging port near the seat post is easy to access, but in reality, most users will likely remove the battery to charge it indoors, while the bike stays outside. Despite its cable steering, maneuvering the Hêta through a narrow hallway or basement entrance is hardly an option due to its sheer size.

Another big plus for carrying kids or cargo is the Shimano CUES 10-speed Di2 automatic shifting, which is integrated with the motor system. Using motor sensors, it selects and shifts into the right gear automatically, as long as the bike is moving.

There are two pre-configured automatic modes, both adjustable via the app. The system also shifts without pedal pressure, automatically returning to a chosen start gear when stopping. These features make riding under load noticeably more comfortable and safe. Prefer full control? You can override the automatic mode at any time, or switch to manual shifting completely.

The Douze Hêta also delivers a surprising level of comfort. While kids and cargo benefit from an 80 mm air suspension fork up front, the rider sits on what appears to be an unsuspended aluminium rear frame. But looks can be deceiving – Schwalbe’s Pick-Up tires, designed specifically for cargo bikes, provide more cushioning than expected. Despite their low rolling resistance, these tires offer excellent grip and high puncture protection, ensuring a worry-free ride, even on gravel. If that still feels too rough, Douze offer a suspension seatpost as an optional upgrade.

The Hêta is highly adjustable: both the handlebar and saddle have a wide adjustment range, allowing for seat heights from 60 to 83 cm from the bottom bracket. However, when raising the handlebar, it’s important to check that the cables have enough slack. In our test, a tightly routed cable to the Shimano display initially limited the adjustment range.

The riding position is comfortably upright, though smaller riders might find it a bit stretched out. A handlebar with more backsweep could help improve ergonomics in that case, reducing the reach slightly.
The kickstand is solid but not outstanding. Smaller or lighter riders might struggle a bit when parking on soft ground, or with a full load.

On the plus side, the TEKTRO 4-piston brakes handle this heavyweight with confidence, and the optional add-ons available in the configurator are impressive in both quality and function. The custom-fit child seat fits securely in the cargo box and features high-quality FIDLOCK magnetic buckles – easy to use, but also easy for older kids to open themselves, which can be either a pro or a con depending on the situation.

The soft cover for the cargo box is well-designed and stays firmly in place. If you’re looking for more protection – especially against theft – the lockable hardcover is the better choice.

Tuning-Tipp: A suspension seat post provides more comfort, and a handlebar with more backsweep improves control for smaller riders.

Who Is the Douze Cycles Hêta For?

With its sturdy build, spacious loading area, and high weight capacity, the Douze Hêta is a true transport champion. Few cargo bikes are as well-suited for urban businesses, or self-employed professionals needing a reliable workhorse.

Families will also appreciate its smart design. The cargo box, combined with the Douze child seat, comfortably fits two kids, while still leaving enough space for groceries. Need even more room? With a child seat on the rear rack and a trailer, you can haul up to six kids if necessary. One thing’s for sure – your big family won’t be outgrowing this bike anytime soon!

The Douze Hêta also appeals to anyone who values sustainability, technological flexibility, and European manufacturing – few cargo bikes implement these principles as thoroughly.

That said, there’s an obvious drawback: the Hêta is big and heavy. No matter the setup, it takes up a lot of space – not every city basement or courtyard will be able to accommodate it. And while the battery is easy to remove, leaving the bike unattended in public for long periods might not be ideal either.

Conclusion: Douze Cycles Hêta 2S CUES Di2

Douze deliver a surprisingly agile heavy-duty cargo bike with the Hêta CUES Di2. With its versatile cargo configurations, the Hêta doesn’t put all of its eggs in one basket, making it suitable for a variety of commercial and family uses. Add the innovative cable steering system and sustainably produced aluminium frame, and the Hêta is a great forward-thinking choice, provided you have the space to park it.

Tops

• Surprisingly easy to manoeuvre thanks to cable steering
• Sturdy die cast aluminium frame
• Externally mounted ebike system ensures long-term adaptability
• Designed with sustainability in mind

Flops

• Very large and very heavy
• Basic lighting system could be improved

For more information, head to douze-cycles.com.

Words: Jonny Grapentin Photos: Jan Fock