Dear Sam,
These days, I see more and more people riding really big bikes with room for passengers and packages. What are these, and where would you recommend I go try them out, as I might like to buy one?
Sincerely,
Paul
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Dear Paul,
Wow, your question has perfect timing as I’ve been noticing them, too! It is true that if you spend any time on bike lane roads these days, you are bound to see people riding non-traditional bikes. These people are taking advantage of innovations in the cycling arena to embrace a more car-free lifestyle.
The bikes you are describing are called cargo bikes or family bikes, and they come in electric and non-electric forms. They allow cyclists to transport not only themselves but small amounts of cargo and even additional (2-4) passengers (usually of the child variety!). They can be open-air or have rain- and wind-protection covers. Popular versions are called “front loaders,” which offer a low center of gravity and excellent stability. The children or cargo sit in the front of the bike in a box, which allows for better monitoring and weather protection. Here is an example of a typical front loader:
Another popular model is a “longtail,” which offers cargo and/or extra seating in the back in the form of an extended rack over the rear wheel. These models ride more like a traditional bike and are generally easier to store. Here is an example of a longtail model:
Cargo bikes can be pricey, with a starting price typically well above $1,000. If you are interested in trying one out, there is a great resource in Minneapolis for doing so. It is called the Minneapolis Cargo Bike Library and is a community-run partnership between the Bicycle Alliance of MN, Cyclehoop, and the Lyndale Neighborhood Association. At the library, you can borrow a cargo bike (electric or non-electric) for up to a week for FREE. You just need to take a one-hour in-person orientation, then book a bike rental time. Here is a short video about the program.
If you are looking to test and purchase a bike like those I’ve mentioned above, you can visit one of Minneapolis’ many bike shops to see what they have in store. Tangletown Bike Shop is close by at 50th & Bryant (816 W 50th St). Another great shop I’m familiar with that specializes in e-bikes, including cargo e-bikes, is Watt Cycleworks (4313 E 54th St). It looks like both offer fee-based rentals of at least one cargo bike model, too.
Minneapolis has an excellent system of bike paths that run throughout the city. This critical infrastructure makes cargo bikes a great fit for families and individuals looking for a convenient, low-carbon way to get around town, have some fun, and get some exercise! I encourage you to rent a bike from the Minneapolis Cargo Bike Library (free!) or a local bike shop and give one a try!
Sustainably,
Sam