Skijor,

What part of the state are you in? If you can make it to Madison there are plenty of bike shops that have cargo bikes in them. So far I've seen Utes, Big Dummys, Radishs, Xtracycles, and the latest Trek Transport bike. Once things warmed up you should be able to do plenty of test rides.

I've had my Xtracycle for quite a while and have found it to be the most useful bike I've ever owned. I used to put it on my roof rack (recumbent tray), but these days I just prefer to put it onto a hitch-mount rear rack. I think you should try one out before you take the advice of your local shop.

Jon