E-Cargo Bikes: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much will it cost me to borrow an e-cargo bike?

It is completely free; you will need to be a registered business and show proof of public liability insurance before borrowing the bike.

2. What is the purpose of the scheme?

It is aimed at encouraging businesses, organisations, community, and voluntary groups across Stratford on Avon District to use electric bikes instead of cars and vans for local deliveries.

3. Do I need to pay a deposit?

No deposit is required

4. How long can I keep the bike/trike?

The plan is for the business to borrow the bike for 3 months, but dependant on how busy the scheme becomes, that may be negotiable.

5. Are the bikes insured?

The bikes are insured against theft and damage provided that the contractual requirements have been met.

The bikes must be stored within a secure location overnight such as in a locked garage. When in use and left unattended the bikes must be locked to an immovable object (such as a Sheffield bike stand) through the frame using the lock we have provided and must not be left unattended overnight. Any damage or theft must be reported to us within 24 hours and in the case of criminal damage or theft must also be reported to the Police and a crime number taken. If in doubt, contact us for guidance.

Any business “borrowing" the bike will need to provide their own Public Liability insurance. There is the potential that your businesses public liability insurance will cover the use of the bikes. Before the bike is handed over, Stratford District Council will need evidence that you have suitable public liability insurance.

6. What happens if the bike is stolen or damaged?

You will have to pay an excess of £200.

7. What is included in the offer?

The loan of the bike, a lock, and some initial awareness training. The bike will be maintained appropriately and there will be support during the normal working week for any routine repairs/punctures etc.

8. I would like to borrow a bike, but I can't get to you to collect it. Do you deliver?

Unfortunately, we do not deliver, the bike will need to be collected and returned to the Pashley depot in Stratford where a basic familiarisation will be given.

9. How far can the bikes go on one charge?

Distances vary bike to bike and in different conditions (heavy loads / hills etc) from 20-50 miles. See the answers in the specific bike details but if you have any further technical questions do let us know – we're here to help.

10. I'd like to borrow a bike, but I don't have somewhere to store the bike. Is it still possible?

We do have to ensure that our insurance conditions are met for every trial as the bikes are very valuable. However, do get in touch with your specific circumstances and we'll do our best to help work out a solution for you.

11. What happens if I have a mechanical problem such as a puncture during the trial?

The bikes have been chosen because they are robust, and all bikes are serviced before going out. However, no tyre is completely puncture-proof and mechanical issues can happen. Stratford District Council will fund the servicing and maintenance of the E-Cargo bikes on loan. If any repairs are deemed to have caused by damage or neglect, the business loaning the bike will be liable to pay as agreed in the Terms and Conditions.

12. I like the idea of trialling a bike but are they difficult to ride? I don't know if I'd have the confidence to ride one

Anyone who cycles regularly can usually ride an e-cargo bike. In the beginning you might have to get used to the size of the bike; however, most people adapt to this within 5 minutes.

13. What are the dimensions of the bike / trike for storage?

• Bike – Length 1870mm & Width 780mm
• Trike – Length 2430mm & Width 800mm