When I started Years ago, when cargo e-bikes were being discussed, they were expensive, niche vehicles for a specific subset of eccentric people. Today, e-bikes are everywhere, but there is one demographic for whom an e-bike is especially useful:parents.
Parents, especially moms, travel a lotI have a full-time remote job. and A 7-year-old and a 9-year-old. On any given day, I drop the kids off at school and pedal home to work on the computer. I stop at the grocery store to buy bananas on the way to drop them off at a play date or volunteer at an event. Without a motor on my bike, I simply wouldn’t have the muscle power to carry my kids and all their stuff. I’d need a car.
An electric bike changed everything for me. It turned my endless, boring errands into breezy opportunities to get exercise, take my kids for a ride, and stop to chat with our neighbors. I love my electric cargo bike — maybe a little too much. If you’re thinking about taking the plunge, here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way.
Don’t see what you need here? Check out our guides on the best bike accessories or how to style your outfits.
Updated September 2024: We’ve added new sections on whether an e-bike is right for you and how to keep your kids safe. We’ve also updated our gear recommendations and verified links and prices.
table of Contents
- Is an electric bike right for you?
- Keep your children safe
- Choose your trip
- Belts and accessories
- Plan your route
Is an electric bike right for you?
Photography: Urban Arrow
“Saving the environment!” she thought. “Getting exercise! Sign me up!” But before you invest in an expensive piece of equipment, I want you to consider this: Do you live in a climate where you can expect to spend a lot of time outdoors, or is your region frequently plagued by snow, rain or dangerous heat? Several friends who have purchased e-bikes in places like Texas simply can’t bike the kids to and from daycare when temperatures get too high.
