January is often framed as a time for big promises — move more, be healthier, live more sustainably, slow down, do better.
But research consistently shows that overly ambitious goals are harder to maintain, especially when they rely on motivation alone. Sustainable habits tend to stick when they’re:
realistic
flexible
integrated into everyday life
That’s where everyday transport — particularly eBikes and cargo bikes — quietly shines.
You don’t need intensity to see benefits
One of the biggest myths around cycling is that it only “counts” if it’s intense or frequent.
In reality, studies show that moderate, regular movement delivers significant physical and mental health benefits — especially when it’s part of daily routines rather than an added task.
Using a bike for transport:
increases overall physical activity without requiring dedicated workout time
reduces stress compared to car commuting
supports cardiovascular health even at lower intensities
Electric assist plays an important role here. It allows people to:
ride further and more often
manage heat, hills, fatigue or injury
stay consistent without overexertion
In other words, you can stay active without pushing yourself to exhaustion.
Outdoor time, without needing “extra” time
Spending time outdoors is strongly linked to improved mood, lower stress levels and better mental health. But for many people, finding additional outdoor time feels unrealistic.
Transport riding changes that equation.
School runs, errands, commuting and social trips become:
moments of fresh air
short breaks from screens
opportunities to slow down
It’s not about adding something new — it’s about changing how you do what you already do.
Connection matters (and bikes support it)
Connection is one of the most overlooked contributors to wellbeing.
Cargo bikes in particular support:
shared rides with children
conversation side-by-side instead of front-to-back in a car
stronger connection to local streets and communities
For families, riding together often feels less rushed and more present.
For solo riders, it can be a rare quiet moment in a busy day.
Sustainability that fits real life
Many people want to reduce car use but feel overwhelmed by the idea of “giving it up”.
The good news?
You don’t have to.
Replacing some car trips with a bike:
meaningfully reduces emissions
eases congestion
lowers running costs
And it does so without demanding perfection.
Every trip replaced is a positive step — no all-or-nothing thinking required.
Why realistic goals last longer
Behavioural science tells us that habits are more likely to stick when they:
feel achievable
deliver immediate benefits
fit naturally into existing routines
That’s why transport bikes work so well for so many people. They don’t rely on motivation or willpower — they rely on usefulness.
If riding makes life easier, you’ll keep doing it.
A gentler way to start the year
At Dutch Cargo, we’ve spent 15 years helping people find transport solutions that work in real life — through changing seasons, growing families, injuries, busy schedules and evolving needs.
January doesn’t need big promises.
It just needs small, realistic shifts that support the life you’re already living.
If you’re curious, start with:
a calm test ride
a short subscription
a conversation about what might work for you
No pressure. No resolutions required.
