Woman cycling through a quiet European city street with a backpack, commuting calmly in a dedicated bike lane.

Bike2Work Scheme UK: Save Up to 48% on Bikes with Glide & Gear

May 09, 2025

Maximise Your Commute Savings with the Bike2Work Scheme

Cycling to work is an increasingly popular choice for UK commuters who want to cut costs, stay healthy, and embrace more sustainable travel. The Bike2Work Scheme is one of the government-approved Cycle to Work initiatives that make investing in a new bicycle and accessories significantly more affordable through a salary sacrifice arrangement.

At Glide & Gear, we proudly accept Bike2Work Scheme vouchers, and we’re here to help you make an informed decision that fits both your budget and your lifestyle.

What is the Bike2Work Scheme?

The Bike2Work Scheme is a government-approved Cycle to Work initiative that helps employees save up to 48.25% on the cost of a electric bicycle and essential cycling accessories. This is achieved through a salary sacrifice arrangement, where the cost of the bike is deducted from your gross salary over a fixed term—typically 12 months. Since deductions are made before tax and National Insurance, the overall price you pay is significantly lower than retail.

The scheme is designed to encourage greener commuting, reduce reliance on cars and public transport, and promote physical well-being across the UK workforce.

How the Scheme Works

The process of joining the Bike2Work Scheme is simple and efficient:

Step 1: Confirm your employer is registered with the Bike2Work Scheme. Registration is free and takes only a few minutes.

Step 2: Choose your ideal electric bike and accessories from an approved retailer like Glide & Gear.

Step 3: Apply for a certificate through the scheme’s platform, stating the value of your chosen package.

Step 4: Once approved, you order your bike with us and begin your commute shortly after.

Step 5: Repay the cost monthly through salary deductions, enjoying substantial tax savings.

At the end of the hire period, you may be offered the option to extend the hire, return the bike, or purchase it for a fair market value.

Why Choose the Bike2Work Scheme?

1. Substantial Cost Savings

With savings of up to 48.25%, employees gain access to premium bikes and gear that may otherwise be financially out of reach. Whether you're after an everyday commuter, an electric bike for longer distances, or specialist accessories to enhance your ride, the scheme makes it more affordable.

2. No Upfront Payment

One of the key advantages is that you don’t need to pay anything upfront. Everything is handled through your monthly payroll, making the purchase feel manageable without impacting your cash flow.

3. Improved Health and Lifestyle

Cycling to work supports cardiovascular health, builds stamina, and helps reduce stress. It’s also an excellent way to fit regular exercise into your daily routine—particularly for those with busy schedules.

4. Support for Employers

Employers benefit too. They can save on National Insurance contributions and offer a valuable perk to support staff wellbeing, reduce absenteeism, and promote environmentally responsible commuting habits.

Who Can Apply?

Most UK employees are eligible for the Bike2Work Scheme as long as the salary sacrifice does not take their earnings below the National Minimum Wage. Employers must be registered with the scheme, but joining is quick, cost-free, and open to businesses of all sizes.

Are There Any Limits?

While the scheme itself doesn’t impose strict spending caps, employers often set internal limits—typically £1,000 or more. Some organisations allow higher budgets, especially for electric bikes or full commuting packages that include helmets and locks.

Important Considerations Before Applying

While the Bike2Work Scheme offers great advantages, there are a few things to bear in mind before committing:

The bike technically belongs to your employer during the hire period. Ownership may only be transferred at the end, usually for a small fee.
The scheme relies on salary sacrifice, which may slightly impact your take-home pay or other salary-based benefits such as pension or maternity pay.
There may be a delay between application, approval, and actually receiving your bike—depending on your employer’s internal process.
Some employers may set upper limits (e.g. £1,000), which may restrict access to certain electric bikes or high-end commuter bike models.

Why Many Customers Prefer Buying Direct from Glide & Gear

While Cycle to Work Schemes can be a fantastic solution, many of our customers also explore an alternative that offers immediate savings, faster delivery, and complete ownership from day one.

Here’s why:

1. Instant 5–7% Discount on the Non-Sale Price

At Glide & Gear, we offer a guaranteed 5–7% discount based on the original (non-sale) price of any commuter bike when you choose to buy directly, instead of using a Cycle to Work Scheme. This gives you immediate savings without having to go through lengthy approval processes, employer sign-offs, or salary deductions. You get full control, faster checkout, and access to the exact model you want—without compromise or delay.

2. No Complications Around Ownership

With direct purchase, the bike is yours from the moment you pay. There’s no ambiguity around end-of-hire terms or fair market value charges.

3. Flexibility on Payment and Budget

You’re not limited by employer-set caps or scheme restrictions. Choose the bike that’s right for you, whether it's a lightweight folding model or a top-tier electric commuter.

4. Priority Fulfilment and Customer Support

By shopping directly, you benefit from priority processing, quick dispatch, and personalised assistance from our cycling experts. We're here to recommend the perfect setup for your route, height, and riding style—without scheme-related delays.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The Bike2Work Scheme is a fantastic way to reduce the cost of a new bike if you're eligible and happy to wait for the approval process. However, if you’re looking for:

Immediate ownership
Faster checkout and delivery
Custom options not covered by your employer’s scheme.
Or if you're simply not eligible for a Cycle to Work scheme

Then buying directly from Glide & Gear may be your best option—with a guaranteed 5–7% discount based on the original bike price.

If you’re still considering using Bike2Work Scheme, you can learn more about how the programme works and check your eligibility at www.bike2workscheme.co.uk.

Need Help Deciding?

Our team is here to guide you through both options. Whether you're redeeming a Bike2Work Scheme voucher or purchasing independently, we’ll make sure you walk away with the right bike, at the right price, with the right support.

Get in touch today to browse our latest models, to explore our wider range or request your exclusive discount. Your better commute starts here.

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frequently asked questions

Who are Glide & Gear?

Glide & Gear are a specialist UK-based electric bike store offering expert advice, top brands, and reliable delivery across the UK.

Click here to explore what Glide & Gear has to offer.

Do you offer flexible payment?

Yes, we offer flexible payment and buy now, pay later options including Klarna and PayPal's Pay in 3 amongst others.

Click here to learn more about our flexible payment options.

Can I speak to someone before buying?

Of course. Contact us here for one-to-one expert advice.

I need assistance in choosing a ride. Can you help?

Of course! Take our 2-min quiz to help you find the perfect ride for your needs.

Alternatively, you can consult one of our many buying guides listed below:

If you're looking for something more specific, refer to our guides by electric bike type:

If you still need any assistance, we're always here to help! Simply contact us and we can help you find the ride of your dreams.

Are electric bikes road legal in the UK?

Yes. Electric bikes are legal in the UK as long as they comply with UK's Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) Standards.

Effectively, a bike is road legal if it has a motor of 250W that cuts of once the rider reaches a speed of 15.5mph.

For more information, please refer to our legal guide.

Do I need a licence or insurance?

No licence or insurance is required for road-legal e-bikes with pedal assist in the UK.

However, we do always recommend our customers to insure their rides to protect against theft and injury.

At Glide & Gear, we offer 14-days worth of free insurance for any new bike purchased via our partners at Cycler Insurance.*

Click here for more information.

*Ts&Cs Apply

Can I purchase a bike using a Cycle to Work Scheme?

Yes, of course! We at Glide & Gear accept all major cycle to work schemes.

Click here to learn more about cycle to work and how to make a purchase with us using a cycle to work scheme.

Can electric bikes be used in the rain in the UK?

Yes — all the e-bikes listed above are weather-resistant and built to handle British wet weather conditions. While you should avoid puddles and ensure proper drying, they’re safe for daily use, even in drizzle.

How do I maintain my electric bike?

Maintaining your electric bike is essential for safe, smooth rides and to extend its lifespan. With a little regular care, you can keep your e-bike performing at its best.

To help you get started, we’ve put together a simple maintenance guide you can use as a go-to resource.

cycle to work faqs

Does Glide & Gear accept any cycle to work schemes?

Yes! At Glide & Gear, we currently accept the following cycle to work schemes:

We can also accept any other scheme in certain circumstances. Please contact us for more information.

How do I redeem a voucher at Glide & Gear?

Simply send us an email at info@glideandgear.co.uk with the following information:

Copy of the voucher/Loc
Confirmation of which bike (including variant) you are interested in.
Delivery details, including name, email, shipping address and phone number.
ID Proof (driver's license, utility bill etc.)

Once you send us this information, we can begin processing your order.

What can I buy through the Cycle to Work Scheme?

You can purchase bicycles, including e-bikes, and a range of cycling safety equipment such as helmets, lights, locks, and reflective clothing. The scheme covers any cycle that helps you commute, including non-standard cycles like tricycles and adapted cycles for disabilities.

Only bikes that meet UK EAPC regulations are eligible for purchase using a cycle to work scheme. Bikes with motors over 250W will not eligible.

Can I use the bike for personal use?

Yes, while the bike should primarily be used for commuting, you can also use it for personal activities.

What happens at the end of the hire period?

At the end of the hire period, you can choose to return the bike, buy it at a fair market value, or extend the hire period. Most providers offer the option to buy the bike at a significantly reduced price after the initial hire period.

What if I leave my job during the hire period?

If you leave your job, you may be required to pay the remaining balance in full. It’s advisable to check your employer’s policies regarding early termination of the hire agreement.