The Unexpected Long-Term Benefits of Riding Together
When our kids were little, we rode everywhere.
School drop-offs. Weekend park hangs. Groceries. Sports. Even last-minute errands.
They’d be tucked in the front of our cargo bike—snacks in hand, music playing, the occasional tantrum echoing in the wind.
At the time, we didn’t think much beyond the practical benefits: getting around easily, avoiding traffic, squeezing in movement, and staying close as a family.
But recently, something shifted.
Our daughters jumped on the O2feel Equo longtail, with a front rack and rear passenger pad. Off they went—to the gym, then to Bunnings (not the easiest ride). They came home with a stack of plants and zero issues. Our son scooted to his gym session on his electric scooter. No car. No stress.
They catch trams, ride regular bikes, walk across the city.
They plan hikes in the Macedon Ranges, camping trips to French Island, and food missions to places like Tambo Ciek in Caulfield for Indonesian eats.
And it hit us: they move freely. Confidently. With curiosity and independence.
And that, it turns out, is the long-tail magic of cargo bikes.
More Than a Bike: Raising Independent Teens Starts Early
We didn’t set out to raise confident city-savvy teens.
We just wanted a better way to get around Melbourne with toddlers in tow.
But by normalising bikes and public transport—by weaving them into our daily life—we taught our kids something far more valuable: how to navigate the world on their own terms.
We didn’t need to lecture them about sustainability or independence.
We showed them, every day, by riding side-by-side.
Why the Cargo Bike Years Matter
If your kids are still little, here’s why investing in an electric cargo bike today is about much more than convenience:
1. You Make Active Travel Normal
Kids learn by watching. If they grow up seeing you choose bikes over cars, they’ll follow your lead.
2. You Build Spatial Confidence
Riding through city streets, bike paths, back lanes, and suburban shortcuts helps children develop a deep understanding of their environment. By the time they’re teens, they’ll have a natural sense of how to get from A to B—by bike, tram, train, or foot.
3. You Reduce Car Dependency Early
We know the climate and cost realities of car-heavy lifestyles. But kids who grow up with electric bikes and public transport as part of daily life are more likely to keep those habits as adults.
4. You Foster Resilience
Not every ride is smooth. Sometimes it rains. Sometimes the chain drops. But learning how to troubleshoot and adapt gives kids grit—and a belief in their own capability.
The Ripple Effect: Teens Who Know How to Live Well
In a world of traffic, overstimulation, and rising anxiety, it’s refreshing to see teens who can slow down, move mindfully, and explore with confidence.
We’ve seen it firsthand. Our kids don’t think twice about jumping on a Specialized eBike to run errands, taking the Cannondale Cargowagen to meet friends, or hopping on a tram to get to uni. They're not waiting for a lift. They are the lift.
They’re fitter, more independent, and more connected to the world around them.
And it all started with a front-loading bike and a toddler seat.
What We Ride Now
We’ve tested and used a wide range of family bikes and electric cargo bikes over the years. Each phase brought something new:
Urban Arrow Family: A go-to for the early years. Stable, safe, and seriously fun. Great for school runs and big hauls.
Riese & Müller Multicharger & Packster 70: Sleek, powerful, and built for older kids and longer distances.
O2feel Equo: Our current household hero. Longtail with plenty of capacity for a teen + gear. Great for urban rides and even gym runs.
Cannondale Cargowagen Neo: Versatile for both teen riders and parent haulers.
Amflow eBikes: Ideal for teens who want a sleeker, sporty electric ride that doesn’t scream “mum’s bike.”
Specialized Turbo Porto: Compact, nimble, and made for serious city living.
From commuting to campus, picking up groceries, or heading to sports, there’s an electric bike or cargo bike setup for every family and every age.
Major Cities, Major Wins
Whether you’re in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, or beyond—cargo bikes just make sense for family life in Australian cities.
With safe cycling infrastructure growing, and electric assistance making even hilly suburbs accessible, there’s never been a better time to choose a cargo bike.
You’ll beat traffic. Avoid parking stress. Save on fuel. And best of all? You’ll build something deeper: connection, independence, and a sense of shared adventure.
So, How Are Your Teens Getting Around?
Are they waiting for lifts—or planning their own adventures?
Do they feel free to explore—or stuck in the backseat of a car?
And if your kids are still small—what future are you riding toward?
We believe the right electric bike today can shape the way your family moves, connects, and thrives for years to come.
Let us help you find the right ride.
From test rides to tailored advice, the Dutch Cargo team is here to help you start strong—whether you’ve got a newborn, a toddler, or a teen ready to take the reins.Ready to Ride?
Explore our range of:
Or book a free test ride at our Melbourne showroom.
Let’s find the perfect setup for your family—and ride toward freedom, together.
