When Zygg launched in its second Canadian location last spring, Michael was one of the first commercial riders to subscribe to his very own ebike in April of 2022. Michael rides an impressive average of 30km/day as a part time food delivery courier. He describes traveling via ebike as “a great transport mode, low-cost and time-efficient”. He has generously agreed to share some insider info. And, Michael has done his research!
Subscribing to an ebike scheme is relatively “low cost, versus a car. At $7.00/day with the annual plan, versus $7/hr operating a car (based on the CRA’s $0.68/km mileage deduction), I find the average trip costs this much or ~ 20% of the trip’s fee.”
He chose Zygg’s Model R because it has a “long range (60-70 km with pedal assist or throttle) and handles hills easily. It works great on dry pavement, but extra care is required on wet roads (ie. limit speed to <20kph). An ebike makes it easier to take on uphill routes, go a little bit further that may not be viable on a bike /e-scooter or even car. The $0.68/km cost of operating a car is very high relative to the trip's paid fee.”
“Zyggcare” - which includes all the repairs & maintenance needed to keep your ebike in great condition - was another factor when Michael chose a Zygg Ebike Subscription Plan in comparison to other modes or purchasing. He confides, “Yes, this is a key selling point / true differentiation. When repairs are required, it's done within 1 hour or swapped out. Appointments are very flexible, and can be booked within the same day.”
“This was the key reason for using Zygg. The alternative if not using a car is to use / own a 2-wheeler (e-scooter or bike). The argument many couriers use is that it saves long-term $, but parts & repair with downtime isn't being factored into consideration.”
“Assuming the average courier is making $25/hr. An 8 hour downtime to repair on your own (1-2 days) plus parts will cost a courier about what a Zygg membership costs (based on my present $207/month annual membership). Anything above 8 hours downtime means the lost time alone (excluding parts) would exceed this monthly membership fee.”
Some of Michael’s favourite routes and sites to visit or pass through via ebike are: “ the downtown core, Olympic Village, Mount Pleasant and Kits.”
Please note: Zygg Membership fees and available plans change throughout the season depending on conditions presently on offer for a Commercial or Personal subscription.
Find more about doing your taxes for bike delivery riders and available deductions from the Canada Revenue Agency.