Borrow an E-bike/Cargo E-bike through our Traveling E-Bike Lending Library!
E-bikes are a transportation option that is becoming more familiar and necessary, and the goal of this program is to introduce Vermonters to how they can be incorporated into everyday life and replace car trips. From commuting to work to picking up groceries and carrying kids to school, e-bikes provide an extra boost of power that makes miles feel shorter and cargo feel lighter.
Local Motion's Traveling E-bike Lending Library will be in several locations this spring and summer, thanks to our hosts, which consist of towns, libraries, and energy committees across Vermont. Head to the How it Works section below to reserve an e-bike for a test ride.
Approximate 2022 Schedule Dates
St. Johnsbury: Mid-April to Mid-May
Lyndonville: Mid-May to Late June
Northfield: Late June to Late July
Waitsfield: Late July to Late August
Bristol: Early September to Early October
Vergennes: Early/Mid October to Early/Mid November
How it Works for Borrowers
- Head to the reservations page (click on the button below) to reserve your loan period.
- Choose the available dates (see each e-bike on the reservation page for details) and complete the form. You'll receive a confirmation email.
- Coordinate a pick-up time with the host at the location indicated on your confirmation email.
- Have fun and enjoy a car-free life!
- Return the bike on the last day of your loan period. Hours of drop-off are coordinated with the host.
Please Read Below Before Reserving a Bike - Important Borrowing Details!
- Overnight storage: You must be able to store bikes in a locked indoor location (that is NOT a shared or communal space) to be eligible to borrow a bike! We're sorry if you can't, but we can't afford to lose them! Also, note that some of the bikes are heavy so some bikes won't be able to go upstairs. See each bike for weights below.
- Transport from pick-up: Ideally, you will ride the e-bike home. If that is not possible, you will need to transport the bike in a truck, van, or SUV with the car seats down. It really depends on which bike since some are quite large. We cannot send e-bikes out on car bike racks due to the risk of rack failure (it has happened).
- Cargo: When carrying heavy items, be sure to balance the weight on both sides of the bike to prevent wobbly and sketchy riding.
- Child seats: The cargo e-bike has optional child seats to borrow.
- Helmet: We will supply you with a helmet if you want, but feel free to use your own.
Interested in hosting the library?
There are no more openings to host the Traveling E-bike Lending Library in 2022. If you are interested in being placed on a waitlist to be a host site, please read our Getting Started Guide first to gain an understanding of program responsibilities.
Then complete the form below to add your organization to the waitlist.
The E-bikes
Rad Power Bikes RadWagon
The RadWagon is a cargo e-bike that can carry you and your kids, groceries, and other valuable cargo around town and some mild backroads. You have the option to borrow one or two Yepp kid seats that are rated for kids up to 45lbs each. The 5 pedal-assist levels and throttle help take the buckets of sweat away from your bike commute and the cargo carrying ability makes this a true car replacement.
MSRP: $1,999
Minimum rider height: about 5'2"
E-bike weight: 73 pounds
Transport: ride home
Ride1Up 500 Series Step-Thru
The Ride1Up 500 series provides a comfortable, upright riding position and is easy to get aboard thanks to its step-through frame design. With integrated fenders, rear rack, and front lights, the Ride1Up is a great option for a novice e-biker. With a front shock and thick tires, this e-bike can handle all the bumps and grit of Vermont roads.
MSRP: $1,495
Minimum rider height: about 5'1"
E-bike weight: 55+ pounds
Transport: ride home, truck bed, van
