Small Change

A column about the small and simple changes we can make to reduce our carbon footprint and save money too…

E-cargo bikes

What are e-cargo bikes?

An e-cargo bike is basically an electric bike with a large storage area attached. In the centre of Leeds, you can often now see e-cargo bikes with their box in front or behind; some are operated by Argos, DPD or DHL, some are the Yeadon-based Last Mile bikes or Leeds CC e-cargo bikes.

An e-cargo bike often carries a load, but equally it can carry a child. All over the country, e-cargo bikes are carrying children to school. For some, an e-bike with a child-carrying trailer is preferable, sometimes with a rain hood or a small, enclosed cabin. They come in all shapes and sizes.

Why e-cargo bikes?

E-cargo bikes are an environmental alternative to cars and vans for deliveries, the school run, shopping, taxi service, or for carrying a tool bag or a case to work.

They are far cheaper to run than a car, with just a small electric charge, no car tax, minimal (if any) insurance, no MOT, and very modest repair bills. Plus they are zero carbon! A car, even an electric one, cannot compare.

The cost of an e-cargo bike varies enormously, from £1,500-£3,000 to £10,000 plus, but there is a growing second-hand market. For family use, the e-cargo bikes at the lower end will in many cases be fine. Look online or talk to Chevin Cycles for advice before buying.

In the 1950s, the butcher, the baker and the greengrocer rode bikes with a box behind, or a basket attached to the front. It was just treated as normal then. Now we have an imperative to go zero carbon, their modern equivalent has a big role to play - with some useful added extras, like a rain hood, electric power and waterproof boxes!

E-cargo in Otley

The first e-cargo bike is now on loan to Otley from West Yorkshire Combined Authority. It has a large box upfront, which is very helpful for carrying bags of compost or a few pots from the garden centre, or for collecting a TV or printer. Some local businesses plan to use it for deliveries and, it is equally ideal for ‘last mile’ deliveries.

If you are interested, you can now come and have a look at the e-cargo bike in Otley. For a modest fee you can also be trained to ride it. The training dates are Tuesday 1 August and Wednesday 2 August.

Contact lianne.lett@otleytowncouncil.gov for more information.