Try Before You Buy Scheme

Short-term Cargo Bike Hire for Families

Try a Cargo Bike – Easy, Fun, Car-Free Family Days in Cambridge

Enjoy a short-term hire that lets you experience everyday family life by cargo bike.

Check comfort and safety for real, book online in minutes, and collect easily with a friendly handover from our team, so you ride away relaxed and confident.

From £15 for 1 week | Bring proof of address | Pick up from Cambridge

How It Works

We recommend test riding our range of bikes before selecting your hire to ensure you get the most from your hire. Book your test ride here
Choose a Cargo Bike, then make your booking & payment below (you will also be asked to pay a £100 security deposit which will be returned at the end of your rental)
Collect Bike from our Shop (you will need to bring Photo ID)
Enjoy your rental and feel free to get in touch with any questions.
Return Bike to our shop at end of rental period (you will be refunded the deposit amount)

FAQs

Pricing

The scheme offers low rates to make trying a Cargo Bike more accessible.

Choose the best duration to suit your needs.

1 week from £15

2 weeks from £25

Book a Bike

Wondering How a Cargo Bike Can Benefit Your Family?

Outspoken Cycles are thrilled to be running the E-Cargo Bike Try Before You Buy Scheme for Cambridgeshire County Council.

The scheme is an exciting opportunity for you to trial either a two, three-wheeled or Longtail E-Cargo Bike at a low cost and with little risk to see how it can work over a longer period and within normal daily routines.

We hope this will ensure you can make an informed and confident decision, both on whether or not to purchase a cargo bike, and if purchasing, which bike works best. Throughout the process we are on hand to give open and honest advice.

What Cargo Bikes are Available?

Cargo Bikes open up a world of possibilities for Families and are a great asset for transporting children, pets, groceries, and more!

A versatile and cheaper alternative to a vehicle
Allow you to take more direct routes across town using cycle paths and green spaces
Beneficial for the health and wellbeing of both the rider and children
Engaging mode of transport for children – with them sat in front you can talk and point out things around you they may find interesting

Cargo Bikes come in two, three wheel and longtail options. If you need help deciding which is best for your needs please visit the following page: test ride

For the Try Before You Buy scheme we have Three great options for you to choose from…

Winther Cargoo Trike

The Winther Cargoo is a contemporary 3-wheel trike with the highest quality standards at an affordable price. An elegant three-wheel cargo bike with a beautiful luxury design with enough space for up to 4 children.

A cargo bike that will impress!

Suitable for 1-4 children from 8 months and upwards
Stable trike design – no need to put a foot down at lights!
Powerful Bafang midmotor with intergrated lights
Powerful disc brakes
Large box with rounded shapes and raintent
Various options for child seating for younger children
Available to purchase in three levels – non-electric, rear hub motor and midmotor
Comes with 3 speed automatic gears

Product Page

Urban Arrow Family 2-wheel

The Urban Arrow Family is powered by a Bosch mid-drive motor with power sensor and has a stepless Enviolo (NuVinci) gear.

This combination provides a smooth cycling experience!

Suitable for 1-2 children from 8 months and upwards
Extra space for shopping
Spacious box with rounded shapes and raintent
Sturdy bench for children to sit on
Stable but nimble cargo bike
Powerful motor and smooth stepless shifting

Product Page

Bicicapace Justlong

The Bicicapace Justlong is powered by a Shimano mid-drive motor. With a rear hub gear shifting is smooth and positive. The most nimble of the offerings.

This combination provides a smooth cycling experience!

Suitable for 1-2 children from 6 months upwards
Rear safety rail with cushions and rain tent. Can be fitted with a child seat
Sporty and agile cargo bike
Improved visibility for the rider
The cargo bike that handles like a regular bike
Convenient bag for all your items

Product Page

The Cargobike of Sweden Flex

Versatile design for families and businesses
Low-maintenance spoke-free wheels
Rear motor with a 40km range
Hydraulic brakes, automatic lights & 7-speed Shimano gears for smooth riding

Product Page

Cykelfabriken

Affordable e-cargo bike with a 30-60 mile range, powered by a reliable Samsung battery
Lightweight aluminium frame and hydraulic disc brakes for safety in all weather
Unique dual steering arm for extra stability and control
Spacious design fits 2 children + groceries, with add-ons for an older child

Product Page

Book your Cargo Bike experience

Book a Test Ride

Book a Short Term Hire

Need more inspiration? Check out our Case Studies below

How to Get Your Child to Wear a Bike Helmet

Helmet battles before a family bike ride? You’re not alone. Here are simple, parent-friendly ways to help children feel happier wearing a bike helmet.

Cycling Instead of Driving: Could One Journey Feel Better?

Imagine what the school run could feel like by bike? A small change to one everyday journey could make a bigger difference than you think.

Test Ride our Cargo Bikes at Herne Hill Veldrome

Join us at Herne Hill VeloPark to test ride cargo bikes in a safe, traffic-free space. Compare models, bring the family, and see what works for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the scheme cost?

For Families the scheme costs £15 for 1 week or £25 for 2 weeks.

For Businesses the scheme costs £30 for 4 weeks and £50 for 8 weeks.

All prices include VAT

What is the purpose of the scheme?

The scheme is designed to allow families and businesses who may be considering purchasing an E-Cargo bike the opportunity to trial one for an extended period before buying. We hope through this we can help further grow the use of cargo bikes in the city.

If I enjoy using the bike, do I have to purchase through Outspoken Cycles?

No, not at all. We are on hand to provide impartial advice on bikes available and will always point you to the most suitable bikes, even if these are with alternative retailers.

After my trial can I purchase the exact bike I’ve been trialling, as an ex-demo?

No, unfortunately not. These bikes are specifically allocated to the project. We do occasionally have ex-demo models, and we do keep popular models in stock where we can. Otherwise we order in models specially.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes, we require a deposit paid by bank card of £100 which is returnable once the bike and all accessories are returned in the same condition as they went out in. We also require you bring photographic proof of ID such as a driving license or passport when you collect your bike.

Are the bikes insured?

The bikes are insured against theft provide specific conditions are met. The bikes must be stored within a secure location overnight such as in a locked garage. When in use and left unattended the bikes must be locked to an immovable object (such as a sheffield bike stand) through the frame using the lock we have provided and must not be left unattended overnight. Any damage or thefts must be reported to us within 24 hours and in the case of criminal damage or theft must also be reported to the Police and a crime number taken. If in doubt contact us for guidance. In the unfortunate event of theft, the person or business trialling the bike would need to pay the insurance excess of £250 if all conditions are met and the bike is insured. If the conditions have not been met, eg the person trialling had not locked up the bike while leaving the bike unattended they would be liable for the full replacement cost.

What is included in the offer?

The fee includes the cargo bike, plus lock and charger. For Family bikes we include any required seats (excluding compatible car seats) for children from 8 months upwards and canopies. For Business bikes we include lockable boxes.

Can I try more than one bike?

Yes. For businesses you may swap to an alternative bike within your trial period, provided alternatives are available. Contact us for details. For families you may trial an alternative bike eg if you have tried the Babboe City bike you can also try the Babboe Curve trike, if available. However this will be a new trial with the associated costs. Each bike can only be tried once per household.

I’d like to trial a bike but I can’t get to you to collect it. Do you deliver?

Yes, we can deliver bikes for trial within the local Cambridge area for £48. If you live further afield, please contact us to discuss costs.

How far can the bikes go on one charge?

Distances vary bike to bike and in different conditions (heavy loads / hills etc) from 20-50 miles. See the answers in the specific bike details but if you have any further technical questions do let us know – we’re here to help!

I’d like to do the trial but I don’t have somewhere to store the bike. Is it still possible?

We do have to ensure that our insurance conditions are met for every trial as the bikes are very valuable. However, do get in touch with your specific circumstances and we’ll do our best to help work out a solution for you.

My business would like to brand up the bike for the duration of the trial. Is this possible?

Yes, you can do this. We just need to agree to the details beforehand in writing. Any existing branding must remain and any branding you add must be fully removed leaving no trace before you return the bike. If in doubt do just get in touch to discuss.

What happens if I have a mechanical problem such as a puncture during the trial?

The bikes have been chosen because they are robust and all bikes are serviced before going out. However, no tyre is completely puncture-proof and mechanical issues can happen. If this is the case, you will need to contact us asap and we’ll book the bike into our workshop (see our website for opening days). You are responsible for getting the bike to us at your cost, however we do offer a collection and drop off service at a small fee. See here for details: https://www.outspokencycles.co.uk/repairs/workshop-repairs/ Provided the repairs are not due to improper use we will fix them at our own cost.

I like the idea of trialling a bike but are they difficult to ride? I don’t know if I’d have the confidence to ride one.

The bikes are indeed all straight forward to ride! With the electric motor they also feel very light to ride. You are more than welcome to get in touch and arrange an initial test ride to see how you feel on the bikes before committing to trial one further. Our sister company Outspoken Training also provider tailored dedicated 1-2-1 cargo bike training in 2 hour sessions. Contact us or visit their website at https://outspokentraining.co.uk/

Shop FAQs

What are your shop opening times?

Our Cambridge shop opening hours are:

Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 5pm
Saturday: 9:30am to 4:30pm
Sunday: Closed

Please note that test rides are currently unavailable on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Our Norwich shop follows the same opening hours, but is closed on Mondays.

How do I find your shop?

Please visit the how to find us page for information on getting to The Bike Depot

Which payment types do you accept in the shop?

If you are paying for goods or services in our shop we are only able to accept card payments (including by mobile phone). Unfortunately we are unable to take cash payments. Bikes and other goods and services can be paid in advance by BACS bank transfer. Please ask us for details or see the account details at the bottom of your invoice.

How can I book a test ride?

Please book a test ride through our test ride booking page, or click one of the buttons throughout the shop section.

You can also call us on 01223 789606 to arrange a test ride in Cambridge or 01603 514 883 for Norwich.

Feel free to drop in for a test ride, but it is best to call ahead to check we have the bike you are interested in riding in stock.

Do you offer a cycle to work scheme?

Take a look at the range of Cycle To Work Plans on offer to help spread the cost, and 0% Finance on bikes over £500 via Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. (T&Cs Apply) Contact us for details and minimum pricing. Please note our one year's free servicing on cargo bikes is not included with bikes bought on the CycleScheme.

What's the difference between a two wheeled or three wheeled cargo bike?

Choosing between a two, or three wheel cargo bike depends on a number of factors.

See here for details.

Why can't I order a bike through the website?

Each of our cargo bikes include a wide range of options, from frame colours, through to different child seat cushions. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service and would always like to speak with customers first to ensure they're getting the best bike for their needs.

If you're based far from Cambridge, that's no problem. Get in touch and we can work with you to still spec the best bike for you.

How long does it take for my order to be ready?

The lead times across our product range vary greatly. For most cargo bikes please expect 2 weeks minimum for delivery to us. This can be more depending on stock levels of certain models from our suppliers.

For Frog bikes, please expect 1 week for delivery and assembly. This is also dependent on stock levels from Frog Bike. There are often certain colours that sell out quickly.

For smaller products such as Accessories, Tools, and Bike Parts, delivery to us is usually within a few working days. We do stock a large number of these already, so get in touch as the product you need may be available same day.

What is included in the one year's free servicing on cargo bikes?

All parts and labour excluding normal wear and tear e.g. brake blocks, worn tyres etc, and damage through improper use such as crash damage or overloading the bike. Get in touch below for further details.

I can't get my cargo bike to you for repair, can you collect?

Yes, we offer a cargo bike collection service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. If it's an emergency, call us and we'll help you out. Contact us for more information.

Have a question?

Get in touch

Why Choose Outspoken Cycles?

At Outspoken Cycles, we’re passionate about making cycling accessible, practical, and fun for everyone. Whether you’re commuting, delivering, or adventuring, we’re here to support you every pedal of the way. So, let’s get rolling - visit, or contact us today and experience the joy of life on two (or more) wheels!

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