In the heart of Norwich, The Common Lot recently hired a new cast member, a cargo-bike, thanks to the Norwich E-cargo Bike Library Scheme.  Picture this: a street theatre show with props on wheels, zipping through the city centre. But, as with any new act, when local businesses and groups try them for the first time, there are always some pre-stage nerves. Take these examples from The Common Lot:

• Storage Drama: Finding a spot to park the new star was a bit tricky. The bike needed a safe, secure place to rest when offstage.
• Riding Nerves: Not all cast members were immediately confident in taking the bike for a spin.
• Speed: For street theatre, the ability to move slowly and precisely is crucial. They needed the bike to follow or lead the show at a walking pace without causing disruptions.

Overcoming the Obstacles

• Storage Solutions: Could you use it as part of your business display if you have a shop? Could a local business offer up some space? Is there parking for cargo bikes available in the vicinity—like Cycleloop cycle shelters? Try using a bike that can be stored vertically.
• Building Confidence: With a couple of practice sessions, you will be amazed at how quickly you feel confident. Most schemes like this will offer these in advance of the hire.
• Speed Control: The cargo bike comes with electric pedal assist settings, helping you maintain the pace you need.

The E-Cargo Bike Experience: A Standing Ovation

Despite obstacles, Jacqui Mackay from The Common Lot is a big fan of the scheme and was thrilled with the opportunity to hire the e-cargo bike for free for eight weeks. She said, “The bike is brilliant. Being able to promote the scheme generated so much interest, and using it for street theatre was a great advert. We recommended the scheme to other arts organisations and feel really lucky to have had the opportunity to use the e-cargo bike.”

If you’re part of a local business or group and want to give the cargo bike a whirl, now’s your chance! Bookings for summer are filling up faster than seats for a blockbuster show, so don’t miss out.

For more info or to book your free trial, visit the Norwich E-cargo Bike Library website.