The cargo bike—a mode of transport with the most potential in micromobility—has its own dedicated festival. What other vehicle, besides the bicycle, can say the same? Last Friday, we attended the International Cargo Bike Festival, held October 25-26 at the Jaarbeurs in Utrecht (The Netherlands). Here’s a look at what caught our eye. More choices for you as a business owner It was the perfect day to focus entirely on the promising future of the cargo bike. Alongside more brands with their own cargo bike designs, we also saw new solutions for different types of cargo. It's not just small parcels anymore; larger containers are joining the game. What we observed last year is even more evident now: cargo bikes are thriving in the micromobility sector, and as a business owner, you have more choices than ever within the cargo bike range—different brands, options for your own branding, and tailored solutions for various types of cargo. Growing interest, despite political headlines Interest in cargo bikes is booming, the benefits are clear, and businesses are increasingly inspired by the incredible initiatives already in place. In general, we’re seeing more people opting for bikes, cities being designed with cyclists in mind, and last-mile delivery by bike becoming more popular than ever. Regardless of upcoming political decisions on zero-emission policies, we’re convinced that the shift toward greener cities is here to stay. Bring on the cargo bikes! Here’s to even more cargo bike solutions in 2025! We’re excited to see what’s in store for next year. In the meantime, we’re already partnering with many of these brands and suppliers, offering a comprehensive range of cargo bikes, parts for maintenance and repairs, and accessories to enhance the ride. Let’s work together to make cities greener and cargo bikes even more popular in today’s urban landscape! About the International Cargo Bike festival The International Cargo Bike Festival is organized by Jos Sluijsmans and Tom Parr, who aim to inspire the world to replace cars and vans in urban areas with cargo bikes. They believe we’re in the Decade of the Cargo Bike, and that cargo bikes are set to become mainstream this century. #decadeofthecargobike
Oct 28, 2024
•Danique Jans
•2 min. reading time
Whether it's riding an electric bike from the train station to work, using a cargo bike for trips to the market, or zipping around on a scooter to reach the city center quickly, micromobility is everywhere, and we expect it to keep growing. Here are the seven major trends in micromobility. We describe micromobility as: "Light, healthy and sustainable means of transportation for daily travel within the city and its surroundings." Emission free urban centers Car-free city centers and low-emission zones are already familiar to us. In order to significantly reduce air pollution in cities, urban areas are becoming more environmentally friendly by taking a more conscious approach to emissions. These so-called low-emission zones mean that cars, trucks, and other goods transport can only enter certain areas if they are emission-free or use less polluting transport. If this is not the case, it is advised to park outside these zones and continue into the city center using alternative transportation. In some cities (e.g., in Belgium), a day pass can be requested to enter the zone. In zero-emission zones, all vehicles within the area must be emission-free. This means that gas and diesel-powered goods transport must switch to electric vehicles or find alternative ways to deliver packages, supplies, or hot food. First and last mile City centers are getting increasingly congested, cars are being restricted more often, and traffic jams are getting worse. This leads us to the next trend: using lightweight transportation for the first and last miles of your journey. In other words, combining various modes of transportation to reach your final destination more easily, quickly, and sustainably. Last mile You start your trip by car, park it at a mobility station, and then continue with a pre-booked electric bike. The benefits? Avoiding traffic jams in city centers and maintaining flexibility. First ánd last mile You commence your journey with a (foldable) bike, then switch to public transportation, and finally, complete your trip on a scooter. The benefits? No waiting for bus connections, enjoying the scenery, and steering clear of traffic congestion. Rising popularity of lightweight transportation Fat bikes are zipping past, e-bikes are becoming fashion statements, and we can’t wait for the day e-scooters hit public roads. The bike path is now shared with dozens of new types of vehicles. Add to that the helmet law for mopeds, and it’s no wonder people are opting for other forms of micromobility. Micromobility is on the rise, and investing in high-quality, enjoyable-to-use modes of transportation is becoming increasingly essential. One could say that micromobility is becoming a way of life, wouldn't you agree? 😉 Avoiding traffic congestion We've already discussed this, but congestion around city centers, industrial areas, and popular routes is on the rise. You end up spending more time in traffic, and other modes of transportation are becoming more appealing. Sometimes, even those who aren't keen on biking at all find it an attractive option to reach their destination faster and with less frustration. Plus, it's a healthier choice. The growing importance of accessories and maintenance More and more people are opting for lightweight transportation, whether to replace their (second) car or to make their daily commutes more efficient, flexible, or enjoyable. Making stops along the way isn't an option, and practical accessories that make travel easier or more comfortable are a great addition. A breathable raincoat, a laptop bag that can easily be attached to your rack, solar-powered lighting, or a cargo fork that turns any bike into a compact cargo bike—all these accessories enhance the experience. Investing in such accessories and proper maintenance ensures lasting enjoyment! Packed and loaded Whether it's a cargo bike for parcels, mail, or deliveries, or a longtail bike for school runs, we're searching for fresh ways to transport ourselves, our shopping, and our children, along with all their school and sports gear. This also applies to the professional sector, for mail and package deliveries, technicians who need to move quickly between clients, and delivery drivers tasked with promptly delivering hot meals. We are actively seeking alternatives to delivery vans and cars, especially in car-free city centers and emission-free zones. From our perspective, this is a positive development! Healthier and more sustainable life It might sound cliché, but a significant trend is emerging toward a healthier and more environmentally conscious lifestyle. Sustainability has become a major concern for consumers and businesses, driven partly by the energy crisis and rising energy costs. We are becoming more conscious of our energy consumption, increasingly favoring electric transportation over gasoline or diesel vehicles. Amid the daily hustle and bustle, both mental and physical health are gaining importance. Our desire is to lead a life that is healthier, more sustainable, and more enjoyable, and this is where micromobility fits in perfectly. Want to stay informed about the latest trends? So, now you know everything about micromobility. Or do you? The way we move around cities is changing. New forms of urban mobility are emerging and gaining popularity. Micromobility is on the rise, and we’re here to keep you updated. Follow PENDLR for the latest news and updates!
Sep 24, 2024
•Danique Jans
•5 min. reading time
More daily travel by bikes instead of cars or vans. Bicycles of all kinds: bicycles, cargo bikes and you name it. Both to work, taking the children out or shopping and delivering parcels or meals. But then that bike has to work at all times & if it does go wrong, be repaired quickly. That is what Yeply - the mobile bicycle workshop - and PENDLR - the wholesaler of parts and accessories for all micromobility means of transport - are working on together. Together, they ensure maximum up-time of bikes, cargo bikes and other micromobility vehicles. Yeply is the fastest growing maintenance ecosystem for bicycles and bicycle-like vehicles in Europe Yeply provides first-class maintenance and service solutions for both B2C and B2B bike (fleet) owners in European cities. They already have the largest maintenance network in Europe and aim to become #1 player in the world. ‘At Yeply, we are committed to delivering fast, convenient and transparent service,’ says Carlos Gil, COO and Co-founder of Yeply. ‘Our mission is to empower individuals and businesses to play a crucial role in sustainability, healthier lifestyles and cleaner environments by using carbon-free micromobility & we enablish this by providing exceptional bike maintenance.’ PENDLR is the partner in micromobility, for sales but also all Service & Repair PENDLR (formerly known as Kruitbosch wholesale) is building on its years of experience in bicycles, parts and accessories & is expanding into cargo bikes and other micromobility means of transport and is seeing many new Service & Repair providers emerge, for which it can be the one-stop-shop for all parts and accessories. ‘With us, you can easily and quickly find all parts needed for maintenance and repair of passenger but also cargo bikes with fast delivery and reliable service, which saves a lot of time and worries for the Service and Repair parties of bike (fleet) owners,’ says Harold van der Hoeven, Business Developer at PENDLR. Yeply & PENDLR join forces Together, Yeply and PENDLR aim to revolutionise bicycle maintenance and repair services. ‘Our joint commitment guarantees a response time of 48 hours, ensuring bikes are always in optimal condition,’ Gil said. ‘We analysed with Yeply exactly which spare parts they need so they can always find them with us and we can deliver them quickly. So that Yeply can carry out their repairs without delay and give their customers the service they deserve,’ van der Hoeven said. Yeply and PENDLR have recently started working together, with great satisfaction from both sides. It is another step in Yeply's ambition to become the number one bicycle maintenance and service party in the world & a concrete proof of PENDLR's promise to become the partner of choice for sales, maintenance and repair in micromobility. About Yeply We are Yeply, excited to introduce ourselves! Founded in Finland in 2016, we are Europe's fastest-growing mobile bike service, dedicated to delivering excellence in bike maintenance and repair to your doorstep. Present in Finland, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium, our mission is to empower people and businesses to create cleaner cities and healthier lives through excellent and transparent bike maintenance. Our vision is to facilitate the shift to carbon-free micro mobility, making it central to urban transport. Using cutting-edge technology, we offer top-quality service and clear communication, making us your ideal partner for bike fleet maintenance and repair. Curious to see how we can support your goals, just like Yeply? With our range of reliable vehicles, parts, and accessories, we provide everything you need to make daily mobility more flexible, efficient, and sustainable. Get in touch with us for a no-obligation chat, and let’s explore how we can help you best. Stronger together, seizing opportunities, and ready for tomorrow.
Sep 1, 2024
•Bram van Duinen
•4 min. reading time
Daily travels in and around the city more flexible, efficient and green. We are your partner in micromobility.