No they are not popular in the Netherlands. Easily 90% of cargo bikes are two wheeled, because tricycles are really only for novice/disabled cyclists. Going above say 20km/h is just plain dangerous with a tricycle, definitely not stable at higher speeds in even the most gentle curve
There are a couple of advantages of tricycles that go beyond novice/disabled. They don’t need a kickstand, so they’re easy to park when loaded. They don’t need balancing at stops. They generally have better load capacity.
There’s also tricycles which can lean into a corner which makes them similarly agile as two-wheeled bikes. They’re still wider, though.
Trikes are certainly not for long distances and a sporty style, but as a short distance cargo/kids hauler, they’re cheap, reliable and effective. I know quite a few people
Who are happy with them.
