The progressive plumber
London-based boiler fitter and plumber Shane Topley was inspired to test out an e-cargo bike during the first lockdown. Now it’s replaced the van as his main business vehicle.
“I expected to do something between 50 and 60% of my business by bicycle,” says Shane. “But it’s closer to 95-98%!”
Shane first considered swapping the van for a cargo bike as traffic disappeared from the roads during the first Covid-19 lockdown. “I was sitting on my balcony and I could smell the trees because there was so little traffic polluting the roads. That’s when I thought it’s time for me to think of another way. It led me into using cargo bikes as an experiment.”
Aside from a few adjustments to his work pattern, Shane found that switching from a van to a Tern cargo bike took relatively little effort, but has brought a wealth of rewards. “I have to plan my day a little bit more carefully, which isn’t such a bad thing, but I can’t just have everything to hand. On days when I’m doing boiler servicing, I’ll try to do four or five services.
“It means a little bit more running back and forth for equipment, but it brings me home for lunch!”
Since getting his first electric bike, Shane has bought a second and used the van on only two occasions. “Both times I’ve been seriously disappointed because one time it took me 40 minutes to find somewhere to park, and the other time it was wall-to-wall traffic. I feel rather smug as I cruise down past all those nose-to-tail cars.”
But there are factors to consider before making the switch, he points out. “Storage is a major issue for many people, especially those using cargo bikes in cities. I re-configured my van at first to store the Tern off the road, overnight. But I also rent a garage from the council where I keep my Urban Arrow. I wouldn’t feel comfortable leaving that on the street at night. “Getting one insured can be a challenge too,” says Shane. “Because the garage I use isn’t on my property, the insurance firms are very reluctant to insure it. One did consider it but the premium was ridiculously expensive.
“I also have to charge the batteries every day, but I have no fuel costs, no parking charges and when I’m out on a job I can usually get the bike in a secure place on the property. If I can’t, I lock it securely and cover it to deter thieves.”
Shane suggests you start with a ‘loan deal’ and get good advice. “I found an organisation called CarryMe Bikes (see previous page) and they were fantastic. The founder spoke to me for about an hour before even suggesting what bike I hire from her. I want to keep the air clean. We should all do as much as we can.”