Saving you the expense of public transport fares or running and parking a car, cycling to work is a great way to combine cost cutting with improving your physical and mental wellbeing. Why not amplify those financial benefits even further by taking advantage of the Cycle to Work scheme?
First introduced in 1999, the Cycle to Work scheme was set out by the government in an effort to reduce air pollution and promote healthier commuting habits. Since then, upwards of two million employees have received a bike through the scheme, and more than 40,000 employers have signed up, as reported by the Cycle to Work Alliance (CTWA).
What is the Cycle to Work Scheme?
Employers in the UK can sign up to one of many Cycle to Work scheme providers. Signing up allows their employees to save significant money on a bicycle (and other cycling equipment) purchased for their commute. Cycle to Work operates using a salary sacrifice model, in which the employee agrees to give up part of their pre-tax salary to cover the costs of a bike (usually spread over a number of months).
Are Electric Bikes Included in the Cycle to Work Scheme?
Yes – e-bikes that meet the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) guidelines can be used on the road, and are therefore eligible for purchase under the Cycle to Work scheme. Read our blog post here to find out more on EAPCs and electric bike laws in the UK.
6 Financial Benefits of the Cycle to Work Scheme
- No Upfront Payments. Buying a brand new electric bike outright could take a significant chunk out of your monthly pay packet. With the Cycle to Work scheme, there’s no upfront payment to save up for; you can start enjoying your e-bike now and simply pay as you go.
- No Credit Check. The Cycle to Work scheme operates as a salary sacrifice arrangement. Because of this, no credit check is required for you to be eligible.
- Convenient Monthly Payments. The price of your electric bike will be spread over a number of monthly payments, typically ranging from 12-18 months (depending on your preference and the provider your employer is signed up to).
- Tax-free. As well as splitting the cost into manageable chunks, instalments for your Cycle to Work e-bike are paid through your salary before tax deductions. In practice, this means you could save up to 47% on a brand new electric bike, depending on your salary and tax bracket.
- Save on Cycling Equipment. Not only will the Cycle to Work scheme save you significant money on your e-bike itself, but you could also save on essential equipment like clothing, tyres, helmets, locks, lights, and mudguards. Ask which scheme your employer is registered with to find out more.
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Save on Commuting Costs. Indirectly, the Cycle to Work scheme could also save you significant money on commuting costs by eliminating or minimising your need to use public transport. It could also reduce your outgoings for parking, fuel, vehicle maintenance, and car insurance.
What are the Best E-bikes for Commuting?
Ready to take advantage of the Cycle to Work scheme, and need some inspiration on which e-bike to choose? Here are two of our favourite electric bikes for commuters.
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ENGWE E26. Complete with a lengthy 140km range, comfortable extended seat, and large tyres for a sturdier feel, the ENGWE E26 is a robust and comfortable commuting e-bike. And with a durable rear rack capable of holding up to 25kg, it’s a great choice for commuters who take lots of equipment to work (or like to run errands along the way).
- ENGWE EP-2 Pro. This nifty e-bike can be quickly folded in three simple steps for easier storage, making it perfect for commuters using public transport for part of their journey. But its compact design doesn’t mean compromised quality; the EP-2 Pro features the highly regarded Shimano seven speed gear shifter, a strong rear rack, and a battery capable of providing juice for 120km on a single charge.
Read our blog post here to discover more of the best e-bikes for commuting.
Our Cycle to Work Partners
E-Bikes Express currently works with seven of the most popular Cycle to Work schemes. If your employer’s scheme isn’t on our list yet, let us know! As keen advocates of the Cycle to Work initiative, we’re always looking to partner with new schemes and help UK employees enjoy the benefits of an electric bike at a fraction of the cost.
We Currently Work With the Following Cycle to Work Partners:
- Cycle2Work from Halfords
- Cycle Solutions
- Gogeta
- Bike2Work Scheme
- Vivup
- Cyclescheme
- Green Commute Initiative
Get in Touch to Find out More
Find out more on our partners and how the Cycle to Work scheme operates here. Already know which scheme your employer is registered with? Browse our selection of quality electric bikes, or get in touch with our dedicated e-bike experts to find your ideal match today!
