Thread by @fare_city

*New research* 1/10: We're very pleased to announce #London's first non-commercial #cargobike policy report 'Sharing the Load'. View or download the report here:👉farecity.org/2021/05/20/sha…

2/10. What are Cargo Bikes? For the study, cargo bikes are defined by the two most common types. First, is the ‘box bike’, which has a platform, or box, between the rider and the front wheel(s). Second, are the ‘mid’ and ‘long-tails’, which feature a regular riding position

3/10. The commercial & communal role: Cargo bikes are more efficient than motor vehicles as they are able to access more routes, are less likely to be stuck in traffic and are easier to park. Their versatility makes them a perfect fit for the hyperlocal nature of communal tasks

4/10. Safety: Safety is the biggest single barrier to cycling in London and, by extension, greater non-commercial cargo bike use. However, users believe cargo bikes are safer than regular cycles owing to their size, visibility & the need to maintain a more central road position

5/10. Infrastructure: Fear of theft is considered a major barrier for non-com cargo bike uptake. Secure home parking deterred one potential user, while suppliers think that both manufacturers & London boroughs must do more including immobilisers & onstreet parking, respectively

6/10. Cost & Commitment: Potential users may take years before they finally decide to purchase a cargo bike. Doing so is considered a financial investment, which requires a level of commitment to be able to justify the outlay. The pandemic, has provided the final push for many

7/10. Culture: A reluctance to try a cargo bike can be attributed to attitudes about cycling more generally. In the UK, cycling is predominantly seen as a recreational pursuit – rather than a legitimate means of transportation & is not yet considered equitable to the needs of all

8/10. Recommendation 01: *City leaders must pair London’s COVID-19 response directly with cycling* City leaders must stand resolute in the face of opposition in passing pro-cycling measures which will enable cycling to become the most equitable mobility choice for all Londoners.

9/10. Recommendation 02: *Establish cargo bike clean air markets* Cargo bikes should be paired with an issue Londoners care about - such as clean air. A low emission market where goods for sale are brought via cargo bike will help the public understand their wider benefits.

10/10. Recommendation 03: *London boroughs must provide more options for cargo bike use* Boroughs must make access to cargo bike hire and purchase easier, while providing improved levels of infrastructure to facilitate their use, including dedicated on-street home parking.