Delivery Gig Shifting to E-Bikes: For Aging, There Are Three Wheels

 "I am afraid. I don't know if I can get up on two wheels and stay up."

That's what an aging client lamented when they heard the delivery gig involves 1) having an e-bike and 2) using only it for handling those packages.

More businesses, ranging from Amazon to mom-and-pop eateries, are shifting from the traditional van or auto to some version of e-bikes. In Manhattan, documents The New York Times, this use of e-bikes to deliver cargo started in 2024. In Europe, with its narrow streets and embedded cycling ethos it's been around for much longer than that.

The good news for seniors is that there are mass-produced and customized e-tikes. Those have three wheels and are equipped with a large basket in back for parcels. Some also have a basket in front.


Amazon lists them, starting at about $700.

In Sierra Vista, Arizona M & M Cycling are among the growing number of shops which will customize an e-trike. That includes setting the miles-per-hour to be in compliance with local or state regulations.

Of course, you can put together your e-trike yourself. That could run anywhere from $600 to $13,000. If your investment is at the high end the good news is that some insurance firms will provide coverage under separate policies known as "personal property." Yes, you can keep the e-trike indoors. If you do that can lower your insurance premium. Also, some towing outfits provide services to haul the e-trike to be fixed in case of a flat or a wire coming loose.

But before you start tooling around town in your delivery gig learn two things. One is the law.  Does your jurisdiction allow riding on sidewalks? What about mandated equipment? And two, how to operate. It requires steering like a car, not like a two-wheel bicycle. In addition, get a feel for the e-trike in a low gear.

And, yes, purchasing and operating your e-trike could be tax-deductible.

Careers? So Over. It’s about Earning a Good Living. No matter what.

Complimentary consultation. No Pressure. Street-smart Guidance. Contact Jane Genova janegenova374@gmail.com.




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