How to safely use WESTcargo bikes

Despite their size, e-cargo bikes are safe and easy to use. There are however some rules and tips that you need to know before you ride. Read on to find out how to best use WESTcargo bikes.

If you are riding a cargo bike for the first time we recommend a few laps in a large, safe space such as a parking lot to get used to the bike. Wearing a helmet is suggested. Be sure to look forward and not at the front wheel while riding and take bumps and rough roads a little slower.

Always remember that e-cargo bikes are motor vehicles and must follow local traffic laws. Never ride while impaired!

Using the kickstand

How to use the kickstand

Raising the stand

  1. Load and unload cargo only when the bike is securely on its stand.
  2. When you’re ready to ride, stand next to the bike and hold the handlebars.
  3. Push the bike forward until the stand folds up.

Lowering the stand

  1. When it’s time to park the bike, stand next to it again and hold the handlebars.
  2. Push the stand down with your foot.
  3. Keep pushing against the stand with your foot and pull the bike backwards onto the stand until it fully engages.

Loading your cargo

Rules for loading your cargo bike

  1. The cargo should not exceed 80kg.
  2. Use straps to secure your cargo.
  3. Be sure that your cargo does not extend forward, backwards or sideways out of the cargo bucket – for your safety and those around you.
  4. Always load and unload your bike while it is on the stand.

Adjust motor support

Set the level of electric assistance for your ride. This needs to be done manually and is usually set to the minimum level as the default.

  1. Locate the motor adjustment buttons on the left handlebar
  2. Use the “+” button to increase motor support
  3. Use the “-” button to reduce the motor support

Turning with a cargo bike

Steering & riding a cargo bike

  1. Cargo bikes are longer than a regular bike – plan a larger, slower turn radius when taking corners
  2. Pay attention to clearance on the sides of your bike when navigating narrow sections – cargo bikes are wider than regular bikes.
  3. Always look further ahead when riding in order to react to obstacles. Do not focus on the front wheel.
  4. Slow down for bumps or rough road segments.

Parking your cargo bike

Important considerations when parking a cargo bike

  1. Always park your bike in a manner that doesn’t block other pedestrians or vehicles.
  2. Not everyone can see where you parked your bike – consider people with visual or auditory impairments when parking your bike and ensure it is out of the way.
  3. When returning your WESTcargo, always park it at it’s home station to avoid a fee.
  4. If you accidentally return a bike when you meant to park it, we’ve got you covered – learn about rental mergers in our FAQs.

Riding with children

How to ride safely with children

  1. Kids should always use the safety straps provided in the cargo bucket.
  2. Children should remain seated throughout the ride in the provided seating area of the container.
  3. The maximum total weight for children to safely ride in the basket is 80 kg

Rules of the road

Follow the rules to keep yourself and others safe!

  1. Never ride while impaired from alcohol or other substances.
  2. Remember: An e-cargo bike is a motor vehicle and must follow traffic laws. Please review and follow your local code to avoid fines or potential affects on your driver’s license.
  3. Cargo bikes should always be ridden on bike paths or on bike-approved roads. Do not ride on the pavement.

Please read the above rules before riding. Have a safe ride!