As a single mum running a gardening business in Brighton & Hove, efficiency, time management, and practicality are essential parts of my daily routine. One of the most impactful decisions I've made is integrating an ecargo bike into my work-life balance.
Brighton & Hove City Council’s eCargo Bike Accelerator Project enables me to acquire an ecargo bike suitable for my needs.
“It’s been a game-changer, allowing me to not only manage my gardening jobs but also handle my school runs and everyday tasks with ease.”
Transportation: saving time and stress
Before incorporating the eCargo bike, I often found myself struggling with the challenges of transportation—especially when it came to carrying tools to various job sites. Driving meant dealing with traffic, finding parking, and loading and unloading heavy equipment.
“The ecargo bike has drastically improved my workflow by allowing me to avoid these frustrations.”
The bike is equipped with ample storage, which fits everything I need - rakes, shovels, pruning shears, compost, and even the occasional plant delivery, without the need for a bulky van.
Parking is never an issue. I can simply park my bike anywhere, without having to circle the block or pay for expensive parking. This easy access saves me precious time, especially on busy days when every minute counts.
The joys of riding: a stress-free commute
Riding my eCargo bike around Brighton & Hove has truly been a breath of fresh air. Not only do I save on time and fuel, but the actual experience of riding is incredibly stress-free.
“I’ve come to enjoy the freedom of riding through the city, avoiding traffic, and taking in the sights and sounds.
It's a form of exercise that doesn’t feel like a chore, and it’s a joy to be outdoors, especially when you’re working in the gardening business, which keeps you closely connected to nature.”
The bike has also been a huge help when juggling my work and family life. The ability to combine school runs with work tasks has made my life much easier.
I drop my children off at school, head to a gardening job, and have everything I need with me on the bike. It’s made the chaos of daily life much more manageable.
Winter challenges and battery life
The winter months have presented their own set of challenges, as working outdoors can be tough in colder conditions. However, I’ve learned to adapt. The bike’s battery has held up well even in these conditions, lasting throughout most of the day.
On the rare occasion that I need to recharge during a job, it’s simple and quick, meaning I don’t lose much productivity.
“Though the cold has made some of my rides a bit more challenging, I’ve come to accept that this is part of the job when you work outside. I’ve found that the eCargo bike handles winter well, and the added physical exercise from pedalling helps me stay warm during colder days.”
The future: anticipating the warmer months
Looking ahead, I’m excited for the warmer months. The bike will be even more useful when the weather is nicer, allowing for longer rides without the chilly winds.
I anticipate being able to take on more jobs, carry larger loads, and even venture further across Brighton and Hove without worrying about traffic or parking.
Conclusion
Overall, using the eCargo bike has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my gardening business. It has saved me time, reduced stress, and given me a newfound sense of freedom and enjoyment in my daily routine.
As a single mum balancing work and family life, the ease and efficiency it offers are invaluable.
I’m excited for the future and can’t wait to see how this small but mighty bike continues to support my business in the months ahead.