It’s amazing what you can squeeze into a cargo bike: a week’s worth of groceries, a new family of houseplants, and even four little youngsters. If you want to test out one of these contraptions for yourself, let us point you in the direction of Flotte. Since launching in 2018, this community-orientated bike rental service has built up a citywide network of 146 cargo cycles which you can reserve and ride. And the best part: the entire thing is free of charge. So whether you are heading to the Baumarkt, finally getting rid of all those Pfand bottles, or simply want to test one of these bulky beasts, all it takes is a few clicks. To rent, check the website for available bikes in your area, complete a short registration and reserve your cycle. You then take a booking form to your local pickup point, collect the key and away you go. The Flotte fleet has vehicles of all shapes and sizes, including models with child seats and cargo decks so you can pick the right wheels for the job. Simply return your cycle to the collection point when you are finished, and that’s it. You will be a three-wheeled fan in no time! (Text: Benji Haughton / Photos: Savannah van der Niet)
Flotte is a non-profit service run by bike owners club ADFC Berlin. Donations are welcome.
@flotte_berlin
