Advice
Can I Get An Electric Bike On A Cycle To Work Scheme?
Getting an electric bike on a Cycle To Work scheme is an easy way to make the switch to greener, powered cycling in an affordable way.
Words by: Auto Trader
Published on 21 September 2023 | 0 min read
Yes, you can get an electric bike on a Cycle To Work scheme if you are over 16, employed, earning above the National Minimum Wage and your employer is signed up to a UK Government-backed Cycle To Work scheme. Electric bikes are continuing to grow in popularity and are ideal for new and experienced cyclists. Here is everything you will need to know about getting an electric bike on the Cycle To Work scheme.
Through a Cycle To Work scheme, bike riders of all experience levels can get any type of bike, including electric bikes, to ride to work. If you are a working adult aged 16 years or over, you will be eligible for a Cycle To Work scheme such as Cyclescheme. Your employer will need to be signed up the scheme and you will need to be earning more than the National Minimum Wage, after the salary sacrifice is taken from your gross salary. The extra power electric bikes provide riders offers a lot of confidence and support wherever they are being ridden – whether that be in cities, on country trails, up hills and or down streets. They are a fun, greener and often cheaper alternative to driving your car or taking public transport to work.
Through a Cycle To Work scheme, bike riders of all experience levels can get any type of bike, including electric bikes, to ride to work. If you are a working adult aged 16 years or over, you will be eligible for a Cycle To Work scheme such as Cyclescheme. Your employer will need to be signed up the scheme and you will need to be earning more than the National Minimum Wage, after the salary sacrifice is taken from your gross salary. The extra power electric bikes provide riders offers a lot of confidence and support wherever they are being ridden – whether that be in cities, on country trails, up hills and or down streets. They are a fun, greener and often cheaper alternative to driving your car or taking public transport to work.
How Does An Electric Bike Cycle To Work Scheme Work?
An Electric Bike Cycle To Work scheme works the same as those for standard bicycles – it is an agreement between an employer and an employee for the employee to get a new bike they can use to cycle to work. Here is how a Cycle To Work scheme works:
- An employee chooses a bike up to a maximum value decided by the employer – this could be anywhere between £2,500 to £4,000! Quick tip: when shopping for an electric bike you will want to consider your employers' scheme limit to ensure you know what you will save, because electric bikes often cost over £1,000.
- An employee then signs a salary sacrifice agreement to pay for the bike out of their gross monthly salary (before tax), meaning that they could save up to 42% on the cost of their new electric bike.
- The electric bike gets delivered, the employee enjoys it for the length of their agreement, and hands it back at the end of the agreement (replacing it with a new electric bike on a new agreement).
How Much Does An Electric Bike Cost?
An entry-level electric bike can roughly cost you £999, but at around the £1,500 mark (the average price for an electric bike that will tick most user’s boxes) you will see some electric bike with brand-name components and externally mounted batteries. From £3,000 up, you will see electric bikes with integrated batteries and carbon frames. And £5,000 plus will get you high-end models with specialist components and innovative features. Our best advice is to see what works for your needs and budget and make your choice that way.
What Journeys Can You Use An Electric Bike For?
You can use your electric bike for any journey and especially your commute to work. According to nationwide figures, over two thirds of UK car journeys are less than 5 miles long – most of those trips would be easy to do on an electric bike.
What Types Of Electric Bikes Can You Get On A Cycle To Work Scheme?
There are many types of electric bikes you can choose from, including city models, hybrids, folding and other types. We would always recommend visiting your local electric bike shop to see for yourself what is available and even have a test ride!
How Far Can You Ride An Electric Bike?
Depending on what type of electric bike you choose the electric-powered range of an electric bike ranges from around 20-100 miles or more. These four factors will determine how far your electric bike will be able to go under its own power:
- The total weight of you and any luggage you are carrying.
- Where you are riding – in a city, up a steep hill, a stony path, etc.
- The weather – e.g., wind, rain, and temperature – will affect your range.
- And, the size of the electric bike's electric motor, its battery charge (the fuller, the more power you have to use) and the level of powered assistance you ask the electric bike to provide.
Where Can You Store A Cycle To Work Electric Bike?
To store your Cycle To Work scheme electric bike safely, you should have practical security options at home and work.
At work, many employers will have parking or storage areas available for all types of bikes, including electric bikes. At home, a garage is the easiest suggestion, and you could always keep in your hallway if you put down a tarpaulin or towels. The best theft deterrent is a reliable and strong lock - some electric bikes feature integrated locks, but if yours does not then we would recommend following the Secure Sold ratings to make sure you choose the best lock available. You can also get electric bike insurance, with many Cycle To Work schemes offering discounts on insurance policies taken out at the same time as the agreement on the electric bike.
At work, many employers will have parking or storage areas available for all types of bikes, including electric bikes. At home, a garage is the easiest suggestion, and you could always keep in your hallway if you put down a tarpaulin or towels. The best theft deterrent is a reliable and strong lock - some electric bikes feature integrated locks, but if yours does not then we would recommend following the Secure Sold ratings to make sure you choose the best lock available. You can also get electric bike insurance, with many Cycle To Work schemes offering discounts on insurance policies taken out at the same time as the agreement on the electric bike.