Cargo bikes: a family alternative to car ownership in Brussels

Research conducted by Mobilise-VUB (Free University of Brussels) during the cAIRgo Bike project sheds light on the diverse profiles of cargo bike users. These range from parents with young children to entrepreneurs and logistics professionals. The study, based on extensive surveys and qualitative interviews, draws a comprehensive picture of the people embracing this emerging mode of transport – or at least curious about its potential. 

For families, the ability to transport children safely and efficiently is a major draw. Also, cargo bikes offer unmatched flexibility and freedom. A single parent shared, “I want to get around by bike with my 8-year-old daughter and reduce car use. The cargo bike gives me more freedom than a traditional bike.” Another parent, balancing work and family life, explained, “I’ve always loved cycling, but a simple bike isn’t enough for transporting kids or groceries. A cargo bike bridges that gap.”

Young professionals and bike enthusiasts are also drawn to the versatility of cargo bikes. For some, it’s the added capacity that makes them indispensable. “I’m a cyclist, but a simple bicycle seems insufficient in certain situations,” noted one participant. “For example, when I want to go on short outings with my niece, I’ve had to rely on public transport.” Others see cargo bikes as a way to start a business while raising a family: “It seems logical to us to use a cargo bike as a second vehicle to reduce our carbon footprint and also reduce our use of the car.”

The so-called mixed users are a growing category that blends personal and professional use. These individuals use cargo bikes for both transportation and work, avoiding the need to jump from a traditional bike to a car or van. One entrepreneur remarked, “I bought a longtail for my private travels. It was when I saw other entrepreneurs around me adopting this means of transport that the idea of buying one became more concrete.” Similarly, a soon-to-be parent highlighted the long-term benefits, saying, “This will allow me in the future to transport child(ren) by bike in Brussels in an easy and fast way, travel longer distances, transport heavier items.”

Professionals are increasingly adopting cargo bikes for their businesses, especially in fields where traditional bicycles fall short. A photographer explained, “My equipment is too bulky for a regular bike, but a cargo bike fits everything I need.” Small-scale delivery companies also find cargo bikes very useful, citing their efficiency and alignment with sustainability goals. “They save time by bypassing traffic jams and solve parking issues,” noted one logistics manager.

Despite their many benefits, cargo bikes face several adoption barriers. The high upfront cost can be a deterrent, especially for families and small businesses. Theft remains a significant concern, as cargo bikes are more expensive and harder to secure than traditional bicycles. Moreover, the lack of dedicated parking facilities in Brussels exacerbates these challenges, leaving many potential users hesitant to make the leap – although the Brussels Capital Region is taking steps in this direction.

Cultural and experiential factors also play a role. For individuals unfamiliar with (cargo) bikes, the idea of navigating city traffic on such a large bike can feel frightening. Yet, this hesitation often disappears once people have the chance to test the bikes. Trialability – being able to try before committing – has emerged as a key factor in boosting adoption during the project.

From the spring of 2021 onwards, residents of the Brussels Region could rent an electric cargo bike or longtail bike free of charge for two weeks. As one user explained, “Testing a cargo bike for two weeks changed everything. It showed me how easily it could fit into my life.” 

The program has engaged 447 households across 17 municipalities, hosting 48 testing events that reached 58% women and 41% men. While women dominate personal mobility use, men account for 77% of professional users. This imbalance points to untapped potential in certain demographics, suggesting a need for targeted outreach and policies.

Participants overwhelmingly use cargo bikes to transport children, with 90% citing this as their primary motivation. Workshops, training sessions, and guided rides tailored to families’ needs help build confidence and competence. Participants were most often aged 30-45, with higher education, full-time jobs, and children. Six months after trying a cargo bike, 73% of households were convinced of its utility, with 62% either owning, ordering, or planning to purchase one.

The experience of the cAIRgo Bike project made it clear that addressing these barriers requires more than individual effort – it calls for community-driven initiatives. Pro Velo’s Families on Bike programme – a spin-off of the cAIRgo Bike project – is an example of how targeted support can transform the mobility landscape. This free initiative offers Brussels families a comprehensive introduction to cycling as a viable mode of transport. The programme includes again workshops, training sessions, and guided rides tailored to families’ needs. Parents can learn how to navigate traffic safely with children, plan personalised routes, and even gain confidence through beginner-friendly courses. Importantly, Families on Bike allows participants to test different cargo bike models, helping them find the best fit for their lifestyle and budget. Pro Velo has also implemented training sessions on alternative and cost-effective solutions, such as using child seats and trailers, which doesn’t necessarily imply the purchase of a cargo bike and makes cycling more accessible for families.

Beyond training, the programme fosters a sense of community. Events like Kidical Mass, a festive parade designed for children, turn cycling into a shared joy rather than a solitary task. Partnerships with initiatives like Monkey Donkey, which offers affordable cargo bike rentals, further lower barriers to entry.

Brussels stands at the forefront of a mobility transition, with cargo bikes playing a central role. Programmes like Families on Bike are shaping a future where cycling is not merely an alternative but an integral and essential mode of daily commuting. In a city embracing multimodality, cargo bikes ideally complement public transport, offering a practical and sustainable choice for residents.

To fully realise this vision, Brussels must continue investing in safe cycling lanes, secure parking, and affordable rental options, while ensuring inclusivity for all demographics. Initiatives like Families on Bike and partnerships with other services are already reducing barriers, making cargo bikes accessible and fostering a community of users.

Beyond convenience, cargo bikes reduce emissions, ease congestion, and promote healthier lifestyles. By integrating cycling, walking, and public transport into a cohesive system, Brussels can prioritise people over cars and create a cleaner, more connected urban environment.