Commuting by Gondolier

Bakfiets or Cargo Bikes

The English term cargo bike has a strong and obvious connection to freight. However, the Dutch word, bakfiets is more neutral and literally means ‘box bike’. That makes it perfectly normal for the Dutch to transport not only cargo in these box bikes, but also their children. A number of years ago, I saw a picture of a “box bike” and have always been fascinated with them. 

Since the first time I saw this picture, I was intrigued with the bakfiets.

Up until a few years ago, they were difficult to acquire in the United States; if you were able to secure one, they were quite expensive. Although on my wish list, I didn’t seriously entertain the idea of buying one. 

About a month ago, I came across a bicycle company in San Diego that manufactures and distributes a number of box bikes. The company is Virtue Bikes. You can see their website HERE.

The line at the top of their page says it all for me —
It’s not sport, it’s not hobby, nor is it recreational. It’s lifestyle.

Virtue offers several different models of box bikes. (Do visit their website and see them all) I was especially interested in the model they call the Gondolier +. It appeared to be just the kind of box bike that I was looking for and seemed to be within my budget. I placed an order for the bike through Ye Old Bicycle Shoppe in San Diego. You can visit their website HERE.

Although I had never ordered from them before, my order helped me start an acquaintance with this shop. Their staff has proven to be everything you would hope for in an online buying experience. They processed my original order promptly and shipped the bike out very quickly. Because the bike required specialized assembly and set up, I had it sent to the Trek Store St. Louis for assembly and adjustment. You can see their website HERE. I might say that customer service at this Trek store is exceptional. George, John, Gary and Justin handled the setup competently and professionally. If you are looking for a local bike shop in the St. Louis area, I can highly recommend these folks. 

Parking outside the front door at work. 

Gondolier looks big next to my '69 VW Bug! 

Bakfiet Debacle or Cargo Bike Collision

Throughly pleased with my new box bike, I was commuting back and forth to work, congratulating myself on the purchase I had made. I had been so pleased with the purchase and setup, that I called both the bike shop in San Diego and the Trek Store, thanking them for their help in the buying process.

Although I have ridden thousands of miles each year for the past ten years, I have been fortunate never to have had a collision with a vehicle. That all changed a few days before Christmas. On the way home from work one afternoon, I had a collision with a vehicle at a four-way stop less than a mile from my house. Thank the Lord, although I was knocked off the bike, I was not seriously hurt. Unfortunately, I could not say the same for my new bike. Initially, it did not appear that the damage was great, however, further investigation revealed the damage was quite extensive. I decided to replace the bike with another one just like it. 

Large, stable kickstand makes it easy to park and secure with lock. 

Revisiting Ye Old Bicycle Shoppe 

After ordering replacement parts for my original bike and getting what I needed to put it back together, I told James at the Ye Olde Bicycle Shop that I wanted to order another bike. He had been so helpful in getting the necessary parts sent out on the first bike. He contacted Virtue and really went to bat for me to secure a new bike at a very reasonable price. He gave me several possibilities for a replacement and showed me all the options and corresponding cost. In the end, he sent out a newer model Gondolier + that is now on the way to the Trek Store for assembly. 

I really appreciate all the help I received from James and Jennifer in San Diego in getting these bikes and parts to me. Their competent, courteous, customer service is exceptional. Although I’m hoping I will not need to order another bike from them anytime soon, if you are in the market for a box bike or anything else they carry, I highly recommend you give them a call!

Awaiting the assembly of the 2015 Virtue Gondolier +

Thanks for taking the time to view my blog. I enjoy sharing my travels and travails with you!   By the way, if you know anyone who might be interested in a non-electric assist box bike, have them contact me….. I will make them a VERY good deal! :-)   I must make room in my garage!

A man who has friends must himself be friendly,

But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24

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