The Free Cargo Bikes Forum celebrates ten-year anniversary

Source: Saz Bike

The Free Cargo Bikes Forum marked its tenth anniversary with a major networking event in Einbeck, Germany.

From March 7 to March 9, 2025, approximately 50 representatives from cargo bike initiatives across Germany gathered to exchange ideas, develop new strategies, and shape the future of sustainable transport.

Event highlights

The annual networking meeting, organized by the Association of Free Cargo Bikes e. V., included a variety of activities aimed at promoting cargo bike use. One of its key attractions was the cargo bike market in Einbeck’s city center, where visitors can explore different cargo bike models and concepts. The program also featured hands-on workshops and insightful lectures from industry experts.

Prominent attendees included Bundestag member Karo Otte from Bündnis 90/Die Grünen and YouTube influencer Tilman Sander of “Radelbande,” both of whom contributed to discussions on sustainable transport and cargo bike advocacy.

Supporting the growing popularity of cargo bikes

Since its inception in 2015, the Free Cargo Bikes Forum has convened annually in various cities, providing a platform for cargo bike initiatives to collaborate and grow. In 2023, the previously informal network was officially named “Verband Freie Lastenräder e. V.,” and now represents around 170 independent initiatives. Collectively, these initiatives lend more than 600 cargo bikes, not only in Germany but also in Austria, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

This year’s event was hosted by the local initiative “Bolle Lastenrad Einbeck,” reinforcing the community-driven spirit of the movement.

Free cargo bike concept

The Forum’s principle of free cargo bikes is based on a nonprofit sharing model. Users can borrow the bikes free of charge, eliminating ownership barriers and encouraging sustainable transport. The initiative is primarily funded by user donations. Several cities have already established successful cargo bike-sharing programs under unique names, such as “fLotte Berlin,” “Lara – Cargo Bikes for Leipzig,” and “Kasimir – Dein Lastenrad” in Cologne.

Open invitation

The Free Cargo Bikes Forum is an open event, welcoming all interested individuals to participate and engage in discussions about the future of urban mobility. As cargo bike usage continues to grow, this annual gathering serves as a vital hub for innovation and collaboration in sustainable transport.