Cycle to Work Scheme

What is the Cycle to Work Scheme?

The Cycle to Work Scheme is a government initiative that encourages people to use cycling as their main mode of transport to get to work. The scheme allows employees to purchase a bike and safety equipment up to a certain value, and then the cost is deducted from their salary in a tax-efficient way. The scheme is open to employers of all sizes and is administered by the UK government.

The scheme is designed to encourage people to use cycling as their main mode of transport to work. It also helps employers to reduce their car-related costs, such as parking and congestion charges, and to reduce their carbon footprints.

The Cycle to Work initiative is a great way to make cycling to work more affordable and to encourage people to use cycling as their main mode of transport to work.

Benefits of the Cycle to Work Scheme

The Cycle to Work Scheme offers a number of benefits to employees and employers alike. 

A More Affordable Source of Transport

Cycling, in general, is a great way to save money as you will not be paying to fuel your vehicle. With all UK Cycle to Work Schemes, you pay the purchase amount of your bike through salary sacrifice. It’s deducted from your gross salary and not your net earnings. That means you don’t pay any form of income tax or national insurance on the payments you’re making on the bike. As a result, you can save even more money than you would when purchasing a bike.

Huge Savings on Electric Bikes

If you’re thinking of purchasing an electric bike through a UK Cycle to Work Scheme, then you’ve come to the right place. In the last decade, electric bikes have taken the world by storm and are an excellent solution if you want to take some of the pedalling out of your commute. It was recorded in the UK that, on average, 10 miles travelled on an e-bike will cost you as little as 3p when you charge at home. Compare this to a petrol or diesel-powered car, which will cost you upwards of £1.50 for every 10 miles you travel. 

A Healthier, Happier You

Cycling is a certified method of improving mental health, relieving stress and enhancing cognitive function throughout the day. The great thing about cycling is that exercise does feel like a chore. Instead, you are focused on the environment around you whilst setting a comfortable yet aerobically beneficial pace. 

As mentioned above, everyone will agree that cycling, especially on an electric bike, does not feel like a chore. This makes cycling to work easy to fit and maintain in your daily routine.

Improved Travel Efficiency

Suppose you work in a built-up area, such as a large town or city. You will be familiar with the frustration caused by traffic jams and congestion, resulting in longer travel time and more significant fuel consumption than anticipated. 

When you cycle to work, you can take all the stress out of your commute, save time, get to work earlier than planned and save money on fuel you were using while sitting in a long line of vehicles.

Tips on How to Choose the Right Bike

Choosing the right bike for you is essential for a comfortable ride and to ensure that you get the most out of your cycling experience.

When selecting a bike, it’s important to consider the type of cycling you’ll be doing, the terrain you’ll be covering, and the type of bike that will suit your needs and budget.

You should also consider the size of the bike and the type of frame. A bike that is too small or too big can be uncomfortable and can make cycling more difficult.

When it comes to safety, it’s important to make sure that the bike is fitted with the right safety equipment and that it is regularly maintained.

Examples of Employers Who Have Implemented the Cycle to Work Scheme

Many employers have implemented the Cycle to Work Scheme and have seen a number of benefits.

For example, the BBC has been running the scheme since 2007 and has seen many benefits. The scheme has helped to reduce car-related costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and improve the health and well-being of their employees.

Another example is Microsoft, which implemented the scheme in 2008. The scheme has undoubtedly improved their car-related costs, carbon emission output and the health and well-being of their employees.