Monday 6 December was Tom’s first journey using the e-cargo bike share scheme, which launched in partnership with the Zero Emissions Network - a partnership between the London Boroughs of Hackney, Islington and Tower Hamlets, supported by the Mayor of London - in September 2021.

The scheme comprises eight e-cargo bikes, fitted with pedal-assist motors, which cost £1.50 to unlock and are 10p per minute to ride. They are available to hire from four hubs - one in London Fields, one in Stoke Newington and two in Shoreditch, close to the borders with Islington and Tower Hamlets. 

The bikes are available for hire through Beryl’s free to download app, ensuring use is accessible, affordable and convenient. 

A keen cyclist in his spare time, Tom used the bike to carry his work tools between sites. The 43-year-old said: “I was particularly grateful for the electrical assist towards the end of my journey, as it gave my tired legs a much needed boost.”.

His tools, which include a hoover, chisels and various electrical components, are too heavy and bulky to carry on foot but fit perfectly in the e-cargo bike storage facility. “The capacity was great, I could have got a lot more in and, most importantly, it kept everything nice and dry.” he added. 

Tom had previously used a van to get between sites but grew frustrated with the levels of traffic and road closures across central London. As well as the obvious environmental and health benefits associated with its use and the savings on fuel costs, the bikes also give the 43-year-old family man some precious time back. 

“Compared to driving in traffic, I think that using the cargo bikes took me 50% less time to get to where I needed to be; but it was also good not to have to use a large van to transport a relatively small amount of tools around, which I often find frustrating.”

Tom also felt the cargo bike was very pleasant to ride. “It took a short while to get used to the balance and weight which is obviously different to my normal bike, but I got there pretty quickly. I also thought the brakes were really good.” he explained. 

He was also pleased with the user experience, describing the customer service on the app as ‘on point and sharp’ and insisting that it was an important factor in any rental service. 

As well as using the bikes for work in the future, Tom also plans to use them to collect parcels and shop. He was delighted when the scheme arrived in Hackney, as he feels that cargo bikes are too expensive to buy and too difficult to store residentially. 

“I’ve got two kids aged six and nine, so I’d be keen to see the scheme possibly expanded to include passenger bikes, which would allow me to take them on family rides. '' he suggested.