Clean Air Zones – and how e-bikes can help

All your Riese & Muller e-bike questions answered

Clean Air Zones – and how e-bikes can help

In February, Bristol City Council announced plans to bring in a Clean Air Zone (often snappily shortened to ‘CAZ’) in October 2021 to improve air quality – bringing it in line with European Union legal standards.

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But this isn’t just unique to Bristol: Bath already has a ‘Class C’ CAZ, Birmingham will launch a ‘Class D’ CAZ on 1st June, and many other cities are following suit later this year and into 2022. So what actually is a Clean Air Zone, what does it mean for you and your commute or business – and importantly, how can e-bikes help?

Firstly, what’s a Clean Air Zone?

A Clean Air Zone is an area in the UK where targeted action is taken to improve air quality. A CAZ can be non-charging or charging. Whether a vehicle is charged when entering or moving through a CAZ depends on the type of vehicle it is, so if your vehicle exceeds emission standards, you may have to pay a charge.

There are four classes of Clean Air Zone (from A-D), with differing rules on which vehicles are covered. A local authority can decide what level of restrictions to apply.

Why are CAZs important?

Although a rather tricky change to navigate for the many businesses and homes that will be affected by the new Clean Air Zones, the ultimate goal is to improve air quality for everyone. Air pollution has been linked to many major health challenges, such as cancer, asthma, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and even dementia – so improving the air quality can only be a good thing long term!

What does it mean for your commute or business?

Each vehicle type has a ‘minimum emission standard’, which can be found in the vehicle logbook or from the vehicle manufacturer. To avoid being charged in a Clean Air Zone, the vehicle must meet the minimum standards. 

The difficult part for businesses who operate within a CAZ comes when their current vehicles – such as delivery vans and lorries – or those vehicles belonging to suppliers that need to access the premises to deliver goods, supplies or parts, fall outside of the minimum requirements, and therefore incur a charge – ultimately increasing the cost of goods or services. This could especially impact smaller businesses who are based in and deliver around city centres, such as florists, bakers and other artisan makers.

But never fear… the e-bike is here!

Bikes – both traditional mechanical bikes, and their electric counterparts – are naturally exempt from any CAZ restrictions. But if the thought of peddling around the hilly slopes of Bristol or your local town fills you with dread, fear not! 

When you have a large amount of deliveries to make in a day, an extra boost to help carry more weight, and haul the load with less effort is always incredibly welcome. This is where e-cargo bikes really come into their own. Equipped with generous cargo bays, pannier racks and even capable of pulling a trailer, the electric motor on an e-cargo bike powers the rider up any steep slope without them even breaking a sweat, meaning they can go further and deliver more than if they were on a traditional bike. What’s more, during the time you’re out and about, the e-bike creates zero emissions, meaning you can sail around a Clean Air Zone without a care in the world!

Many businesses have now chosen to switch their standard delivery vehicle to a e-cargo bike – often branded in their company colours and logo – benefiting the environment and also promoting their business to the community in an eye-catching way as they are out on their travels!

Towards the end of 2020, we donated one of our Packster40 e-cargo bikes to the awesome The Bike Drop social enterprise in Stroud. The Bike Drop is all about connecting local businesses and local riders to local people. Set up in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a team of dedicated young people got together to collect and deliver items locally by bike. The Bike Drop offers training and employment opportunities and provides a sustainable pedal-powered delivery service for the Stroud District. 

Harry McKeown, Director at The Bike Drop Stroud explains how the Packster40 has helped: “The incredible Packster40 is a vital lifeline to The Bike Drop and the deliveries we do all over the Stroud District! Each week it is out on the streets delivering pints of beer, countless loaves of bread and freshly baked croissants, locally made soaps, locally grown flowers, home-made meals, local magazines and books – with over 150 deliveries made each week!

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“We have maxed out the Packster40’s impressive carrying capacity by adding a trailer with cargo box and a huge cargo box on the front, along with panniers too! We can take a whopping 350 litres of cargo in one haul and our heroic riders can haul that rig all over Stroud, Minchinhampton, Nailsworth and beyond! Even the famous W (steep winding road from Nailsworth to Minchinhampton) does not halt a fully loaded up Packster40!

“Our aim is to support as many local businesses as possible with deliveries while reducing carbon emissions and road congestion, along with providing employment to local people. The incredibly generous gift has allowed The Bike Drop to grow and fulfil these aims. We currently provide eco pedal-powered deliveries to 15 local businesses and have just hired our 7th rider – and I honestly don’t think we would be in this position without the help of the Packster40!”

Help buying an e-cargo bike for your business

We’re often asked if it’s possible to buy an e-bike through your company. We’d always recommend you speak to your accountant, but a lot of our customers buy their cargo bike as a business asset, which means they’re able to claim the VAT back if their business is VAT registered. EDEMO’s Dan explains a little more here:

You can also buy an e-cargo bike through schemes such Cyclescheme or the fantastic Green Commute Initiative. GCI is a Social Enterprise with a vision to get commuters out of cars and onto a bike, with the dual purpose of improving both the individual’s health and wellbeing, as well as reducing the environmental impact of pollution and congestion from cars. One of the great things about the initiative is that you’re not restricted by the normal £1,000 limit of other cycle to work schemes. That’s right, no limits! This is made possible because GCI is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority – so they are definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for help to buy your e-bike.

It’s also worth looking locally to see whether your Council is offering any support. The e-Cargo Bike Grant Fund scheme, funded by the Department for Transport and delivered by the Energy Saving Trust, has already meant £2m was allocated in 2020 to 18 local authorities. Taking Bath as an example, this meant that ten new e-cargo bikes are now operating on the streets of Bath after the council secured a £40,000 grant – four will be loaned out to local businesses free of charge should they wish to trial e-cargo bike deliveries before investing themselves. Whilst the window for new applications for the funding is currently closed, it’s an idea to keep an eye on developments in this area if you might be considering an e-cargo bike for your business in the future.

As another ‘try before you buy’ option, Riese & Müller – who make a number of incredible e-cargo bikes such as the Load60 or Packster – have a ‘rent a bike’ scheme, allowing you to rent a Load75 e-cargo bike for a month to see if you like it, before investing in one for your business. Find out more here – but get in touch with us directly to get the wheels in motion.

Is there anything else I can do?

Along with choosing to cycle, the Clean Air for Bristol campaign suggests a few small and simple ways you can help improve the air quality in your area – no matter where you live:

  • Try walking or cycling the kids to school as much as possible, but at least twice a week.
  • Limit use of wood burning stoves and don’t burn wood on an open fire.
  • Walk, cycle or get the bus whenever you can.
  • Recycle your waste. Never burn it.
  • Walk to the shops if you only need a few things.

Let’s get e-biking!

If you’d like to know more about some of the brilliant Riese & Müller e-cargo bikes – or their e-bikes in general – please do get in touch. We can talk through your specific requirements with you, and work out which model and spec would be the perfect fit for you and your business. Get in touch with us today and book your test ride!

Just at the start of your e-bike journey? Why not download our Buyer’s Guide covering everything you need to know about electric bikes.

Alice A.
Alice A.
1684740087
I came across these guys as I couldn't find a stockist in Scotland who did the bike I was looking for. From the get go the staff were really helpful, I mostly dealt with Jen, they didn't bat an eyelid at my many requests and changes including delivery to central Scotland - working around my timescales. Brilliant service!
Neale B.
Neale B.
1683894820
Great service from choosing the correct model to delivery and tuition - all part of the service which is Platinum
Preston S.
Preston S.
1682507724
Lots of good advice, no pressure and plenty of opportunity to road test bikes. I was on a break in Glos and called in to EDEMO, having previously watched a number of their very useful you tube videos about Riese & Muller bikes. Two days later my chosen stock bike was prepared and paid for and a week later delivered to my address in Cumbria. Faultless. A pleasure dealing with them. The bike is great too!I would recommend.Thank you
Michael D.
Michael D.
1682274189
Excellent service. Dan guided me through all the choices, Jen organised the delivery and kept me updated, and AJ delivered the bike and got me set up and going. The team let me know I can come back to them anytime for any help or support I might need.
Mike R.
Mike R.
1681987430
I had a test ride booked and was pointed to a very steep hill to try the bike on and then a reasonably flat cycle-way to give me an idea of different riding scenarios. Enjoyable test ride. Got back to the shop and had a talk about the bikes and tried a different model. I got some very helpful advice, decided on the bike and purchased it. They delivered the bike to my home and spent some time running through all the features and adjustments I could make. Very happy with the bike and the service from Edemo.
Mike M.
Mike M.
1677260519
Nice shop, good selection and helpful staff, good place to buy a bike.
John H.
John H.
1675859607
It was such a pleasure to buy my bike from Edemo after years of dealing only with internet based suppliers. I used the Bristol based office/workshop and enjoyed the entirely personal service provided by AJ who also delivered my bike to me when it was ready and explained how to operate and maintain it. In particular I felt reassured that Edemo would continue to provide support during my ownership of the bike. Great service throughout!
Charlotte C.
Charlotte C.
1675791717
Dan and the team at EDEMO were super helpful in getting my new bike sorted. We found them really knowledgeable, and honest in how they helped me choose; finding something that would be exactly suited to what I needed, not just the most expensive option in the shop. The process of trying out bikes and chatting through everything was enjoyable. For me, the Riese & Muller range that they stock encompassed great options. Using only one supplier did make the process more straightforward than at other places as EDEMO could provide a wider range of options rather than just having lots of very similar bikes from different suppliers. Dan was helpful in organising what we needed so we could use the cycle-to-work scheme. The pick up process was thorough and thoughtful, making sure I had everything I needed and knew all the ins and outs of the bike.
Mark A.
Mark A.
1675435853
A top team! Really know their products, are willing to invest the time in helping you understand them as well. One of the best sales and service experiences I’ve ever gone through! Now bought two bikes from them! Just cannot fault any aspect of their service delivery.
Timm
Timm
1674989277
Another 5* review from me.If you were on the fence of spending the extra £££ on a R&M, visit the shop and test ride one of their bikes. They seem to have most, if not all their models in store.Very friendly service too :).
Ben R.
Ben R.
1674056195
Excellent purchase process with no pressure. Edemo were patient and happy that I wanted to try many different makes of cargo bike before deciding which one to purchase.. In my view, for my needs, the R and M Load 75 was superior in all respects. Since purchase the bike has exceeded my expectations
Isabel B.
Isabel B.
1673467673
We received absolutely brilliant customer service from Edemo. They all have really in depth knoweldge about the different bikes so could answer any question. We could test ride any bike we wanted which is so important. They were really accomodating with our Bike to Work scheme. When we bought the bike it was delivered with a really in depth handover, and after sales support is very helpful. Can't fault them!
m W
m W
1672337321
Very helpful staff in the Nailsworth shop (even though I came on the wrong day)Was able to try three different models and different setups which was invaluable and meant making the right choice of bike was easy.The R and M website is good but being able to try and chat about the various models and options made sense of it all. The Edemo website is also extremely helpful.Ordering was very easy and delivery happened when they said it would. When the bike was delivered it was all set up with a couple of small adjustments done on the spot.I would happily recommend Edemo to anyone.
Paul B.
Paul B.
1671735666
A really excellent service, especially from the workshop team who had no problem ordering extra parts from Germany and helping me make changes to the Multicharger I bought from them.I would highly recommend Edemo to anyone looking to purchase a Riese and Muller Ebike. With so many things in life the back-up and after sales service is key, especially with an investment such as one of these excellent bikes.
Katherine P.
Katherine P.
1671395084
Excellent all round service . Really knowledgeable about all things electric ! I can’t recommend enough .
Benjamin B.
Benjamin B.
1670711970
Amazing service from wonderful people who assisted me in purchasing an e-bike. Every request was fully explained, and nothing was too much trouble. Thank you very much, Team.
Julian B.
Julian B.
1670683515
Thanks to Dan, Jen and AJ. Great doing business with you and thank you for your ongoing support. The Tinker is an amazing eBike which is easily carrying me and my things around 70 miles each week as I commute across Bristol. Great to do business with you. Thank you!
Sayed H
Sayed H
1669291794
Really good experience, Johan was great, he let me test ride some amazing ebikes which helped me decide which models suited me best, a lovely showroom and location too.
Boo and M.
Boo and M.
1667656037
What a breath of fresh air it has been, talking with Dan about R&M bikes. His knowledge is vast, his patience and humour, to be praised, from the first initial enquiry, to the delivery of my fantastic bike. Thank you 😁
Liam P.
Liam P.
1667504289
Great crew providing excellent service! Have even taken the time to discuss things I would describe as outside their remit - ex. having the little one on the back, insurance etc
Gareth E.
Gareth E.
1667399525
Excellent service and advice. Test ride was greatly appreciated as was Dan looking after Walter (my dog) whilst I had the test ride!
Paul B.
Paul B.
1665916010
Tremendous knowledge and service. I’m so pleased we went with EDEMO for our bike purchase. I really can’t recommend enough!
Steve C.
Steve C.
1665560253
Bike is great everything I expected, typical excellent German quality of design and manufacture.The service received from Dan and his team was 1st Class, friendly, knowledgeable and professional.Thoroughly recommend both the product and EDEMO.
Peter M.
Peter M.
1665497553
All worked well and am happy with the bike as well as the support from Dan's team. There is quite a lot to learn because the bike is a step up from previous electric bike that I have had but the result is very good and I am still learning.
David S.
David S.
1665252882
Excellent all round buying experience. Dan was really helpful going through options no hard sell or pressure too buy. We visited his shop twice and test rode any of the bikes as many times as we liked. Nailsworth has good test ride conditions and good lunch stop for a nice day out. We bought 2 charger 4’s didn’t really want to spend that much money but they are already paying back as the car is parked up for many of our trips a 20 mile trip is quite easy now, we live rural with big hills. Bikes took about 3 months to come so if your thinking about it get your order in. They were delivered by AJ who gave us a good briefing. If you want a R &M get it here if your no sure go test ride one.
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DualBattery 1250

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DualBattery Technology perfected by Riese & Müller ensures twice the range or far higher climbs, fewer charging breaks and longer-lasting riding pleasure.

With the 1,250 Wh now available, completely new destinations can be reached and you no longer have to worry about the range in your daily routine.

DualBattery 1000

dual-battery-1000

DualBattery Technology perfected by Riese & Müller ensures twice the range or far higher climbs, fewer charging breaks and longer-lasting riding pleasure. With the 1,000 Wh available, completely new destinations can be reached and you no longer have to worry about the range in your daily routine.

Additional Chain Lock with Bag

Additional chain lock with bag

The sturdy Abus chain lock, in addition to the Abus Shield frame lock, provides twice the security for your E-Bike. The 130 cm long chain is latched onto the frame lock and you can quickly lock your bike to the nearest lamppost or lock it together with up to three other bikes. The chain thickness of 6 mm ensures a high level of anti-theft protection.

Especially practical: frame lock, chain lock and battery lock all use the same key. The bag is firmly attached to the saddle and allows quick and easy removal of the chain lock thanks to its ergonomic shape and Fidlock magnetic closure.

Please note: for smaller frame sizes the lowest saddle position may not be usable when the lock bag is fitted.

Smartphone Hub Cockpit

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The Bosch SmartphoneHub and free app turns your smartphone into an E-Bike display which combines smart navigation with live weather, fitness data and much more. Your smartphone’s standard functions are perfectly integrated and can be operated from the handlebar. The Bosch SmartphoneHub is just as perfectly integrated into the tidy minimalist cockpit with internal cabling and adjustable stem angle. And if you leave your smartphone at home, the permanently fixed display also shows the key riding data.

Please note: This option is not compatible with rohloff and HS models.

Bosch eBike ABS

With Riese & Müller Control Technology you are sporty, safe and comfortable on the road. In addition, the ABS option ensures optimum control even in the event of sudden braking. It prevents tires from slipping, the rear wheel lifting and the whole bike skidding out to the side. The proven technology from the world of cars and motorcycles is now also available for your E-Bike.

Please note: This option is not compatible with rohloff models.

GX option with Fox suspension

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Air suspension upgrade (Fox Float)

The Fox Float air suspension fork with 140 mm travel offers optimum riding conditions for discerning cyclists. The GRIP damping system reliably absorbs shocks from stones, sticks or roots lying on the way and effortlessly compensates for unevenness. With 15 finely adjustable rebound damping levels, this excellently manufactured air suspension fork can be tuned to any undertaking – whether uphill, downhill, field and forest tracks or asphalt.

GX Option

If you like riding your E-Bike off-road, then simply equip it with a first-class off-road package. The Suntour Aion air suspension fork with 140 mm travel reliably absorbs shocks and effortlessly compensates for any unevenness on the terrain. The solid tire studs on the shoulders of the Schwalbe Johnny Watts tires guarantee outstanding grip, especially when cornering. The wide VP 538 flat pedals provide grip for your feet. The sporty saddle an the adjustable X-Fusion Manic seatpost simply make off-road riding an absolute joy.

AIR SUSPENSION UPGRADE

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Air suspension upgrade (Fox Float)

The Fox Float air suspension fork with 140 mm travel offers optimum riding conditions for discerning cyclists. The GRIP damping system reliably absorbs shocks from stones, sticks or roots lying on the way and effortlessly compensates for unevenness. With 15 finely adjustable rebound damping levels, this excellently manufactured air suspension fork can be tuned to any undertaking – whether uphill, downhill, field and forest tracks or asphalt.

REAR CARRIER

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Rear carrier for Riese & Muller bikes - as standard

Your cargo is co-sprung by attaching the carrier to the main frame and Control Technology. Vibrations and hard impacts, such as on cobblestones or pavement edges, are simply smoothed out, increasing riding safety even with a heavy load. The carrier is equipped with the Basil MIK system. Baskets and panniers can be fixed to it with a single click. This extraordinarily stable system lets you quickly swap bicycle accessories fitted with a MIK adapter plate. Accessories can be obtained from EDEMO Electric Bikes.

Pannier rack

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Pannier rack for Riese & Muller bikes

The minimalist pannier rack is ideal for fixing panniers weighing up to 5 kg each. The rear and brake lights are unobtrusively integrated into it. The “Form follows function” design principle has been exceptionally well executed with the pannier rack.

Front carrier rack with Bag

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Riese & Muller front carrier rack with bag

Keep on the move and still have everything with you. You can secure up to 5 kg of luggage on the front carrier, which is fixed to the frame and hence benefits from the bike’s full suspension, perfectly protecting your cargo from knocks and bumps. The bag offers space for a volume of up to 18 litres. Thanks to the zipper and roll closure, your transported goods are perfectly protected from dirt and rain. The bag can be removed quickly and easily and becomes a shoulder bag using the strap supplied. You can safely store smaller items in the two outer pockets equipped with waterproof zippers.

Front Carrier

Riese & Muller Front Carrier
Riese & Muller Front Carrier

Being sporty when out and about – and yet still having everything you need with you. You can secure up to 5 kg of luggage on the front carrier, fixed to the frame and hence co-sprung, perfectly protected from knocks and bumps. Bungee cords secure a sleeping bag, small sports bag or provisions in place in no time at all. And you’ll come to appreciate your front luggage carrier just as quickly.

Comfort Kit

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Comfort Kit on the Homage

The perfect option for anyone wanting to ride in greater comfort: the classically curved handlebars and wider saddle enable you to sit comfortably in an upright position.

The Kiox Display

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Kiox Display shown on the Riese-and Muller Charger3

The Kiox display is perfectly integrated into the cockpit: the internal cabling creates a tidy, minimalist appearance. The adjustable angle of the stem lets you choose from a sportier or more upright seating position. The Kiox display includes different training modes and is perfect to use with tactile pressure points on the control unit. Heart rate monitors can be linked by Bluetooth. The scratch-resistant Gorilla glass makes the small Kiox exceptionally robust. Map-free navigation (only in conjunction with a smartphone) completes the features of the Kiox.

No cockpit (Intuvia Display)

The E-Bike is equipped as standard with the Bosch Intuvia display, giving you full control and a perfect overview at all times. It provides information about battery status, range, daily mileage, total mileage, ride time, current motor power, time, speed and average speed – clearly legible in any level of sunlight. It is operated by a control unit conveniently mounted on the handlebar grip.

The Nyon Display

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Nyon display unit shown here on the Riese & Muller Multicharger

The Nyon display is perfectly integrated into the cockpit: the internal cabling creates a tidy, minimalist appearance. The adjustable angle of the stem lets you choose between a sportier or more upright seating position. The Nyon display ensures that you are fully connected and ideally equipped with navigation for every tour or day-to-day ride. The colour display, with its intuitive touch function, is very simple to use and, thanks to being robust and easy-to-read, is guaranteed to get you to your destination in any weather. The user interface can be customised to your needs.