A Fruit Loop Over the Rainbow Road.
Taking a Fruit Loop over the Rainbow Road sounds more like a kid’s fairy tale than a bikepacking adventure — but that’s exactly what unfolded over the summer of 2025/26.
One of our neighbours, long-time supporters, and proud owners of their very own Cargo Bike World Fruit Loop (affectionately known as the “RufLoop”) decided to point their bike toward one of the South Island’s most iconic backcountry routes: the Rainbow Road.
Starting in Hanmer Springs, the intrepid family of riders loaded up their RufLoop and made a beeline for Island Gully Hut — a classic four-bunk DOC hut tucked deep into the high country. With gear packed and plenty of summer daylight on their side, the RufLoop proved itself more than capable of handling the gravel, climbs, and remote terrain — although we suspect the well-seasoned ultra cyclist within the group may have helped a little too!
After a night in the comfort of the hut, it was back in the saddle for the ride along the Rainbow Road toward St Arnaud. Big landscapes, wide skies, and the kind of scenery that reminds you why bikepacking in Aotearoa is so awesome.
The 100km plus adventure was a perfect example of what our Fruit Loop cargo bike is built for: carrying gear, hauling kids’ bikes when needed, transporting kids themselves, and tackling just about any ride you can dream up.
Cargo bikes are all about turning ambitious (and maybe even crazy) ideas into unforgettable journeys. Whether it’s commuting around town or exploring remote backcountry roads, the Fruit Loop continues to prove that cargo bikes — and kids! — are capable of far more than most people imagine.
We love seeing where our bikes end up — and what they end up carrying. Dogs, kids, groceries, camping gear, or all of the above — every ride tells a story, especially when they’re taking on Kiwi adventures like this one.
If you’ve taken your Cargo Bike World ride somewhere cool,
we’d love to hear about it: shell@cargobikeworld.com
Rolling from Alps to Ocean.
Rolling from Alps to Ocean on a Cargo Bike World BLT
Some adventures start with a wild idea. Mine began with a simple one:
What if I rode the Alps to Ocean trail on my Cargo Bike World BLT?
Not the typical touring bike setup. No carbon frame, no ultralight gear. Just a solid, do-it-all cargo bike, fully loaded and ready for anything.
And honestly? It was great.
Getting to the Start Line
One of the surprises with the Cargo Bike World BLT is just how practical it is—even before the ride starts. The whole bike breaks in two, which meant it fit snugly into the boot of a mid-size vehicle. No need for a towbar rack or a roof system. We drove to Twizel, popped the bike out, bolted it back together, and I was ready to roll.
Why the BLT?
The Cargo Bike World BLT isn’t just for school runs and supermarket hauls. This bike is built tough but rides smooth, with a low center of gravity that makes it surprisingly nimble. I had mine kitted out with panniers, a roll bag,tents and enough food to feed two families. The BLT took it all in stride.
Cargo bikes often get pegged as city haulers, but I was determined to prove that they belong out on the open trails too. And this thing held its own on gravel, climbs, fun descents and the single track.
Even fully loaded, it cruised like a dream.
The Trail Unfolds: Lakes, Canals and Country Roads
From Ōhau’s lunar landscapes to the rolling farmland of the Waitaki Valley, every day was different. The wide-open skies made for uplifting scenery and the small towns along the way were full of friendly faces and curious questions
“You’re riding that thing all the way?”
Yep! You bet - its fun!
The BLT's low centre of gravity meant I always felt stable—even on loose gravel or steep descents. And having absolutely everything needed within arm’s reach? Bliss. I didn’t have to overthink packing —just pedal, camp, and picnic.
Riding around Lake Benmore
Highlights & Hiccups
Top moment? Gliding beside Lake Ōhau with a tailwind. It felt like flying.
Toughest bit? Climbing up to the Tarnbrae Saddle. Let’s just say I got a serious leg day in. But the descent made it all worthwhile—switchbacks, views for days and a huge sense of accomplishment.
Biggest surprise? How many people wanted to talk about the bike! It turned into a great conversation starter—especially with fellow riders who were amazed at how well it performed
Would I Do It Again?
In a heartbeat. The Cargo Bike World BLT gave me freedom, flexibility, and fun—all wrapped into one unforgettable ride. Whether you’re hauling gear, kids or just your adventurous spirit, don’t underestimate what a cargo bike can do.
A Few Tips for Fellow Riders:
Gear wisely: Good tyres and reliable brakes are must-haves. The BLT came through on all fronts.
Pack like you're going camping... because you are. The BLT can handle it.
Don’t rush. There’s a lot to see, and a cargo bike invites a different kind of ride—more relaxed, more grounded.
Hydrate often. There are long stretches without water, and the sun can be sneaky.
Trust the bike: It’s built for more than you think - it's built for everything!
Battery-conscious? Don’t worry—the BLT’s range is no joke. Over 100km on a single charge made planning simple.
From snowcapped peaks to salty air, riding the Alps to Ocean on a cargo bike wasn’t just a cycling trip—it was a celebration of fun, self-reliance and the freedom of the long road.