Cargo bike FAQs

What is a cargo bike?

Cargo bikes are specially designed bikes for carrying heavy loads, large items or multiple passengers such as children. They come in a variety of sizes and designs depending on the intended use. Some also come with electric motors that help you when you pedal so that you can go up hills more easily or travel longer distances.

What can cargo bikes be used for?

People use cargo bikes for everything we use bikes and motor vehicles for. Carrying passengers and children to school or the park, transporting bulky goods or lots of parcels or running a mobile business like a coffee shop. Cargo bikes are very versatile and you can purchase boxes, seats and other add ons that you attach to the different basic types creating your own bike for your needs. 

Who can use them? 

Anyone who can ride a bike can use a cargo bike. You do not need a driving licence and you can ride them everywhere you can ride a bike including roads, cycle lanes and bus lanes. ZEN provides free cargo bike training for businesses.  

How much do they cost? 

Cargo bikes like all vehicles vary in price depending on your particular needs. Generally the entry level cargo bikes cost between £1,800 and £2,000. Additional or bespoke boxes or seats can cost between £500 to £1000. You can expect to pay an additional £1500 to £2000 for an electrically assisted cargo bike depending on power and range.

Retailers also offer rental or finance schemes with monthly payments so that you have more options when it comes to using a cargo bike. 

And there is a growing second hand market for cargo bikes.  

Where can I get one?

There are a range of retailers in London and online, but the Zero Emissions Network recommends that you try a cargo bike before purchasing to see what bike fits your needs best and suits your riding style. ZEN provides free cargo bike trials for businesses. 

• London green cycles

• Carryme Bikes

• Fully charged

• Urban e-bikes

How can the Zero Emissions Network help?

ZEN offers a free one week trial of any available cargo bike for Zero Emission Network members. Simply click here to book your free trial with London Green Cycles. 

ZEN has helped lots of businesses and residents trial and purchase cargo bikes. Read how cargo bikes have benefitted ZEN businesses. 

Other cargo bike guides

Business cargo bike guide

Sharing the load: the potential of e-cargo bikes

A guide to going electric: electric cargo bikes for business (Fully charged)

Guide to cargo bikes (CarryMe Bikes)