OurBike: A Look at London’s largest E-Cargo Bike Share scheme

Recently, OurBike Manager Douglas Leroy shared insights about our community-focused cargo bike scheme at the Walking and Cycling Conference. We’ve adapted his presentation to bring you the OurBike story, highlighting how we're building community connections through sustainable transport.

With 3,785 trips, 8,593 hours logged, and a collective distance of nearly 15,000 miles (at the time of publishing), OurBike isn’t just an e-cargo bike share; it’s a movement toward community-driven, sustainable travel.

The 2,200 members of OurBike aren’t simply renting bikes—they’re part of a shared vision that places community at the heart of sustainable travel. Here’s how OurBike is working to create social connections, support local businesses, and make cargo bikes accessible to everyone. Unlike other mobility hire schemes, OurBike allows users to hire e-cargo bikes by the minute and book them through a simple app.

We currently operate 50 bikes across 11 London boroughs and even have a bike in Saffron Walden!

The key Pillars of OurBike: Collaboration, Accessibility, and Connection. 

Collaboration

Working closely with local councils, business improvement districts (BIDs), and community stakeholders, we ensure OurBike is available in areas where it’s most needed. Local councils cover equipment and service fees, including maintenance and customer support, and choose bike locations based on community needs.

This cooperative model helps OurBike contribute to local goals, like reducing car use and supporting Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) initiatives. Local hosts—such as shops, community centres, and offices—also play an essential role. They keep the bikes charged and ready for use in exchange for free access to the bikes and brand exposure. Acting as physical stations, hosts make OurBike more accessible and visible within the community.

Accessibility

At OurBike, we aim to make active travel available to a wide audience. Our three-wheeled cargo bikes are designed to be user-friendly, even for those new to cargo biking. Each bike has a spacious box with a padded bench, making it perfect for carrying kids, groceries, or cargo. Before taking their first ride, members can watch an instructional video or request a training session.

OurBike’s affordability is another important aspect of accessibility. With fares set at just £3 an hour, our scheme is within reach of more people. Additionally, we work with councils to place bikes in high-deprivation areas, where they’re needed most. As a result, 62% of members say they would use a car if they didn’t have access to OurBike, underscoring the positive impact on car usage and emissions.

Connection

Beyond just a ride, OurBike fosters community connections. By hosting an OurBike, local businesses gain exposure and support. Hosts report that their decision to partner with us is motivated by the convenience of having a cargo bike available, offering added value to their customers, and gaining visibility in the community.

OurBike members also connect with these local businesses, whether by borrowing a pump or engaging with hosts about their bike experience. This interaction strengthens community bonds, creating a more connected and supportive neighbourhood.

The Bigger Picture: Community Ownership and Empowerment

OurBike’s collaborative approach reimagines traditional mobility services. By involving local residents and businesses, we’re transforming transport from a simple A-to-B service to a community-centred experience.

With every trip, we’re helping build sustainable habits that benefit people and the planet. So, here’s to our riders, hosts, and partners, who are making this vision a reality—one trip, one connection, and one community at a time.

Please get in contact if you would like to find out more:  douglas@ourbike.co.uk