We love a chat with our community members, but sometimes, you meet a rider who just gets you right in the heart strings. Say hello to Margaux, a brilliant, 87-year-old cyclist and Lug+Carrie customer in Brisbane who is showing everyone that age really is just a number.
Margaux cycles an impressive 15km a day around Brisbane with her beloved canine companion, Sally Salami the Sausage Dog. Powered by her Lug+Carrie eBike – the Tern NBD, she rides from home in West End along the river to Kangaroo Point and back.
We caught up with Margaux to find out all about her life by bike.
Q. Margaux, 15km a day is serious dedication! You were riding before the eBike, right?
Margaux: Oh, yes! I used to ride an ordinary city bike. I’d done 20,000 km on it. But I realised as I was getting older—I’m 87 now—the hills were becoming a real strain. I could feel it on my knees from pushing harder and harder to get up. I’m so fortunate that this one came into my life at the right time.
Q. How did you find your way to Lug+Carrie?
Margaux: Would you believe, it was a chance encounter? I was tying up my old bike in the car park and a Lug+Carrie subscription eBike was right next to it in the rack. I left a note on it and later spoke to the owner—she had a child seat in the back—and asked what she thought of the electric bike. She said I should check out Lug+Carrie and that was it!
Q. You’re riding a Tern NBD with the low step-through— was that an important feature for you?
Margaux: It was essential. Because of my age and my knees, the lower the step-through, the better. Especially when you stop at a red light, you need to be able to get your feet immediately on the pedal. It’s about being secure and ready to go. Plus, I added the double stand, which is a huge advantage for parking. A heavy bike would wobble while you’re trying to stabilise it.
Q. And we have to talk about Sally Salami the Sausage Dog! How does she handle the daily commute?
Margaux: She loves it. She’s five and she’s been in a bike basket since she was eight weeks old. She’s securely tied in at the front and back of the basket, so she’s not going anywhere. By the time I get home, I’ve smiled at so many people and many of them call out, “Good morning, Sally!” It’s a bonus having her.
Q. What advice would you give to other older people thinking about cycling?
Margaux: Go for it…It’s easier than you think. Just make sure the bike accommodates your strength, your ability to climb on and off and your balance. More people should do it. It’s there, and it’s easy.
Spread the Joy
Inspired by Margaux? The freedom to ride doesn’t have a best-before date. If you’re ready to tackle the hills the easy way, or you have a parent or friend who deserves this kind of independence, let’s get them rolling.
