This week we focus in on local lad, Christian who set up solo here in Copenhagen a year or so ago and has quickly managed to pivot and make a market for himself, delivering from bakeries and other raw producers to cafe's and restaurant's. Onward Delivery operate now with two eBullitts and deliver throughout the course of the day to ensure supplies can keep up with demand.
We fired over some questions to Christian about his reasons for working with the eBullitt, questions which he kindly took the time to answer really thoroughly and thoughtfully. Here are some of his responses below:
Was your primary reason for investing in a cargo bike business, economic, environmental or social?
The business idea was essentially delivering great food on a cargo bike. The Bullitt ended up being the perfect fit for my business because it provides such a smooth ride, which is very important when I’m handling delicate food goods. I also needed presentable storage space and I wanted it to be environmental as well.
Did you as a business adopt the Bullitt primarily to cut costs?
Cutting costs wasn’t the primary factor. Most importantly I wanted to have fun riding around beautiful Copenhagen. But actually it did end up cutting costs. Before adopting the Bullitt, I had a different cargo bike which required constant repairs. When I purchased the first Bullitt, I wasn’t sure if I would end up having the same issues. Now it’s two years later, I have two Bullitts and I cannot wait to add one more to the collection.
Was it an environmental choice due to vehicle restrictions brought in? The banning of diesel vehicles for example.
I’ve always had environmental considerations in mind so the banning of diesel vehicles did not impact my decision.
Do you feel more engaged as a business with society at street level and are therefore able to adapt and pivot more effectively?
I’m never one to sit behind a desk and the Bullitt keeps me engaged with people, and allows me to talk with my clients directly. We don’t need to pivot too much with the deliveries because we mostly do ongoing scheduled deliveries.
How does using a Bullitt effect the everyday running of your business?
First and foremost, the Bullitt makes everyday fun. I’m also extremely pleased with the sleek design. I know I can rely on the Bullitt so I’m more focused on the clients rather than making sure that the bikes are in order.
Time efficiency?…the time saved in urban environments using a cargobike for short journeys.
I cannot image how much time is saved compared to delivering with a car. I find that the Bullitt is extremely fluid and almost dolphin-like so I can get from A to B very easily.
Running costs in comparison to vehicles. Parking costs, service, fuel?
I’ve never really considered vehicles even on a personal level. Parking costs, service, and fuel costs are certainly big deterrents. The primary reason why I got into this industry was to combine biking around Copenhagen, meeting good people and being close to good food, and the Bullitt is a great way for me to do this with no issue.
How do people react to you using a cargobike?
The reactions are very positive and they seem to appreciate that it’s a great way to get goods across town without degrading the environment.
Does it generate conversation with customers?
Yes, I find that it does. I think a big reason why my customers choose my services is because it doesn’t involve fuel-based vehicles. When we have a mutual interest in quality food goods it also means having a mutual interest in up-keeping the environment.
Do you believe your business has potentially generated income due to your adoption of a cargobike in your business model?
Certainly and for many reasons. First and foremosts it’s the easiest way to get around Copenhagen. I’m also very pleased that I don’t have the hassel of fuel and parking costs.
Why did you choose the Bullitt over other cargobike options?
The first time I tried the Bullitt I fell in love because the biking experience is superior. It’s got great suspension and I can hardly feel the rough ground underneath. The other cargo bike options I’ve looked into rattle a lot, and they’ve turned out to be quite unreliable.
How has aftermarket service and warranty been post purchase?
Since the bikes are in constant use, I bring them by monthly to tighten everything up. It’s always a great experience when visiting Larry vs. Harry. I’ve had most interactions with Tobias who’s such a good person and great at his work.
Did the high resale value of the Bullitt offset the relatively high purchase cost?
I haven’t tried selling any of the bikes yet.
Did the aesthetic of the Bullitt drive your purchase choice or was it due to it’s practicality and customisation options?
The practicality and customisation options came first. But the aesthetics definitely drew me in as well. It’s such a beautiful bike and the design is so sleek and professional.
