What exactly is a Cycle to Work Scheme?
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How much money can I realistically save?
Depending on your tax rate, you could save between 30% and 47% on the total cost. The higher your tax band, the more you save thanks to reduced income tax and National Insurance contributions.
Who can apply for the scheme?
Employees aged 18 or over, paid through PAYE, and earning above minimum wage after deductions are typically eligible—assuming their employer offers the scheme.
How long do the repayments usually last?
Most payment periods are between 12 and 18 months, depending on your employer’s agreement. Payments are automatically deducted from your salary each month.
What happens after the payment term ends?
After the hire period, you may have options to extend, return the bike or take ownership by paying a small fee (typically 3–7% of the bike’s value or as little as £1 after a few years).
Can part-time employees use the scheme?
Yes, provided they meet the same conditions as full-time staff: paid via PAYE and earning enough post-deduction to stay above minimum wage.
Do I need to use the bike for commuting only?
Not exclusively. You should use it mainly for work journeys (50% or more), but personal rides and leisure cycling are allowed too.
What if I leave the company before the scheme ends?
You’ll usually be required to pay the outstanding balance from your final payslip. This repayment will be from your net salary so tax savings won’t apply on the remaining amount.
Can I use the scheme again in the future?
Yes, you can reapply typically once every 12 months though some employers may have different policies.
Can I pay extra if the bike I want costs more than the scheme limit?
No. According to Department for Transport rules, you cannot top up the voucher with personal funds. The full value of the order must be covered by the scheme certificate.
How does the tax saving actually work?
The bike cost is taken from your gross salary reducing your taxable income. This means you pay less in income tax and NI, which is where the saving comes from.
What if my bike is stolen or damaged?
You are responsible for the bike’s care. Even if it’s stolen or written off, you must continue your payments. It's strongly recommended to insure your bike.
Who technically owns the bike during the agreement?
During the lease, the bike is owned by your employer or the finance company. You’re essentially renting it until the hire period ends after which ownership may be transferred.
Am I free to pick any bike or brand I want?
Your options will depend on the Cycle to Work provider your employer is signed up with. We offer a wide selection of bikes and brands through various partnered schemes so in most cases you’ll have plenty of choice.
How quickly will my certificate be approved once I place an order?
As long as you already have your certificate, approval usually happens within 24 hours though in some cases, it may take a bit longer. The process is generally smooth but we do need to wait for final confirmation from your scheme before we can get everything ready.
Which Cycle to Work schemes can I use?
We accept the vast majority of Cycle to Work schemes and vouchers. Take a look at the section below to view all our partners.