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Original poster

Any bakfiets riders around?

9 replies

User24689 · 02/12/2018 21:31

Recently moved to Cambridge and got a two wheeled Bakfiets cargo bike (long version). Thought it would change my life as driving here is so terrible, plus heaps better for the environment and fun for the kids.... But I'm really struggling to get used to it!

I had preferred the trike version but the man in the shop told us they were less safe and didn't handle well round corners so we went with 2 wheels even though I wasn't confident on it when test riding it in the shop car park and now I'm wondering if we've made a mistake! I just feel unstable on it and I darent ride it with the kids in yet - they are 14kgs and 11kgs so add a fair amount of weight and im so worried about toppling them!

Any fellow cargo bike riders who can tell me if they just take getting used to? DH says it is just all a question of confidence because he is managing fine. I'm a lot shorter/ lighter than him though so it feels like I have less control.

Thanks!

OP posts:

ragged · 02/12/2018 21:32

don't have one but oh dear, I hope you work it out!

LovesLaboursLost · 02/12/2018 21:37

It’s true that you have to be careful with the three wheelers on corners, as they can tilt. But IMO you need strong leg/hip/pelvis muscles to manage a two wheeler. You will get used to it in the end.

Original poster

User24689 · 02/12/2018 21:43

Thanks! At the moment my plan is to take the two wheeler out empty every evening, just riding it around the quieter local streets after kids are in bed. I figure once I feel confident I can start taking them out on quiet streets too. DH literally hopped on and biked into the city with then on main roads. They loved it (I was terrified on their behalf )

OP posts:

Aftershock15 · 02/12/2018 21:58

I used one for a while to transport my 8 year old with a broken foot. You just have to get used to it. They are quite hard work at first. I went and rode up and down the guided bus way. Dh rode it there with child and I went on my own bike. Once we got there I just cycled until I was happy. If you tried it, you could start with one child and leave dh and other one watching you, then when you are used to the weight move on to the second. I’m sure you will get there in the end, and end up with thighs of steel too!

Original poster

User24689 · 02/12/2018 22:18

Thanks Aftershock, good idea to try with one. I could definitely take the little one out while the eldest is in preschool in the afternoons. He's only 1 so won't pick up on my nerves with it, which is my main concern with the 3yo. Plus if I tipped him, he would be much more forgiving!

OP posts:

Aftershock15 · 03/12/2018 08:11

I’m sure you’ll get there in the end. Make sure the saddle is low enough that you can get your feet comfortably on the floor (makes it harder work to peddle but makes you feel more stable when you stop) Practise with the little one and then enjoy the freedom of not needing to use the car and sitting in traffic.

thereinmadnesslies · 03/12/2018 08:18

I started cycling in Cambridge this year on a normal bike. It definitely takes a while to get used to cycling generally, so I imagine a cargo bike would be even harder.
Are you connected to the university? They run free cycle training sessions. Otherwise could you spend some time using the bike without the DC to get used to it.

TabithaBraithwaite · 03/12/2018 18:22

‘I had preferred the trike version but the man in the shop told us they were less safe and didn't handle well round corners’
——
Personally I have a 3 wheeler and love it, had it for 7 years. I find it very safe but he is right you do have to be careful going round corners, but I just slow right down and make sure I take the corner at right angles so no tipping.

I’ve never had the nerve for a 2 wheeler but they are supposed to be faster and nippier.
I like that when I’m at the traffic lights I can just sit and wait happily, no pushing off and getting the balance right.

Good luck and lots of practice & I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it soon

TropicPlunder · 03/12/2018 18:27

I've just got a 3 wheeler. Been cycling with kid on the back in a seat for a long time....but cargo bike will fit child and dog! I'll need to be much fitter to cycle both. Cambridge streets are very used to cargo bikes, and you'll see lots of fellow child-bike-transporters on your way. good luck! Hope it works out great for you (And for me too....first school trip with mine will be this week )

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