Can I get an e-bike on the cycle to work scheme?
Yes, you can absolutely get an e-bike on the Cycle to Work Scheme, but not all electrically powered bikes are eligible under the Scheme.
Scheme rules only permit participants to obtain e-bikes of a specification that meets the Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (‘ EAPC’) standards and legal requirements.
There are many products known as ‘e-bikes’ or ‘e-cycles’ available on the market. However, not all of these are classified as EAPCs.
To be classified as an EAPC, the cycle must:
- be fitted with pedals that can propel it;
- have an electric motor with a maximum continuous rated power not exceeding 250 watts;
- cut off electrical assistance when it reaches 15.5 miles per hour (mph).
Your chosen Cyclescheme Partner Retailer will be on hand to advise you on the appropriate e-bike makes and models you can obtain via the Scheme, but you should be particularly careful when obtaining your cycle online and be sure your choice of make and model e-bike meets the EAPC requirements before completing the checkout process. If in doubt, consult with the Retailer directly and ensure they confirm to you in writing that your choice of e-bike is an EAPC, you can absolutely get an e-bike on the Cycle to Work Scheme, but not all electrically powered bikes are eligible under the Scheme.
Please note 🚨
If an e-bike is not an EAPC and does not comply with the regulations, it will be treated as a motor vehicle and will need to be registered, insured and taxed as a motor vehicle before being used on public roads. If you mistakenly obtain a non-EAPC e-bike you will lose your entitlement to the Income Tax and NIC savings and, if you are caught using it without registration, tax, and insurance, the bike may be seized by the Police and you may face prosecution, financial penalties, and potential points on your Driving Licence, so it’s vitally important to check that the e-bike you intend to obtain is an EAPC.
Due to the technology, battery, and motor costs a good quality EAPC often has an RRP over £1,000. But fear not; more employers than ever before are able to offer schemes with limits in excess of £1,000 (meaning you can save up to 47% on the total cost of an EAPC).
Check out our ' How much can I spend?' answer for more information or head HERE, click ‘I’m an Employee’ and search for your employer to find out what their scheme spend limit is.
For a personalised savings figure that includes ownership fees, visit our calculator and enter your details.
You can search to see if your workplace is signed up using the search box on Cyclescheme's homepage.