How Cargo Bikes Can Help Women (If Cities Let Them)

Inspired by Women Mobilize Women + Planetizen

It’s not just about the bike—it’s about who can ride it, where, and why.

Around the world, women are embracing cargo bikes as a smarter, safer, more joyful way to get around. Whether it’s transporting kids, groceries, or even water and crops (as women in Zambia and Ghana do with incredible grit and creativity), cargo bikes are proving to be a powerful tool for mobility, independence, and care.

So what’s the holdup in the U.S.?
In a word: infrastructure.

A growing body of research (and common sense) tells us that cargo bikes meet many women’s needs better than cars or buses. Women are more likely to "trip chain"—stacking errands, school drop-offs, and work commutes into one route. With their added capacity and e-assist features, cargo bikes can turn that logistical juggling act into a smooth ride.

But according to articles from Women Mobilize Women and Planetizen, U.S. cities are still lagging behind. Safety concerns, especially around cars, continue to discourage would-be riders. Even though 75% of cargo bike buyers are moms (shoutout Motherload documentary), the lack of protected lanes and bike-friendly routes makes biking feel like an extreme sport rather than a viable choice.

And that’s a loss—for our health, our planet, and our freedom to move.

At Christiania Bikes, we believe the solution isn’t just more bikes—it’s more bike equity. That means cities need to build for real people doing real things—hauling kids, carrying groceries, building businesses, and getting where they need to go safely.

We’ve seen what’s possible when people are empowered with the right tools and the right support. 

📚 Want to learn more?
→ Read Can Cargo Bikes Close the Gender Mobility Gap?
→ Read How Cargo Bikes Can Help Women
→ Watch Motherload for a dose of inspiration