Why cycle to work?
Everyone has their own reasons for choosing to cycle to work, but the benefits often go far beyond what you first expect:
✓ A healthier mind and body
✓ Hitting your fitness goals faster
✓ Feeling happier and more energised
✓ Enjoying your commute rather than dreading it
✓ Arriving on time, fresh and ready to work
✓ Saving money on fuel and parking
Cycling to work doesn’t just benefit you – it also helps the environment by reducing congestion, lowering emissions, and cutting noise pollution.
How the scheme works
Cycle-to-work schemes make it easier and more affordable to get a new bike and accessories through your employer. The process may vary slightly depending on the scheme provider, but the general steps are:
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Choose your package – This usually includes your bike and can also cover safety equipment, accessories, and clothing. (HMRC rules exclude GPS or bike computers.)
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Apply through your employer’s scheme – Most employers are registered with a provider. You’ll need to submit an application, often with a quote for your chosen package.
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Approval & voucher – Once approved, your employer arranges payment with the scheme provider, and a voucher is issued to cover your bike package.
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Salary sacrifice – You pay your employer back via a salary sacrifice agreement, meaning payments are taken from your gross salary (before tax). This gives you significant savings on the overall cost.
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Collect your bike – Once everything is signed off, you can pick up your new bike and start riding to work.
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End-of-scheme options – At the end of your hire period, your provider will explain the options available if you’d like to keep the bike. This is usually straightforward and low-cost, though details vary between schemes.
Your bike package
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Bikes included: Conventional bikes, electric bikes, and cargo/trike-style bikes are generally eligible. Motorbikes, mopeds, and scooters are not.
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Brands: Bikes must be from reputable, road-legal brands. E-bikes must meet UK regulations.
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Accessories: Locks, helmets, lights, racks, child seats, and clothing can usually be included.
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What’s not included: Anything that modifies a bike into a moped (like speed dongles) is not allowed.
Ultimately, eligibility depends on HMRC guidelines and your scheme provider’s rules.
