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Cycle Solutions Scheme UK: Save Up to 42% on Electric Bikes with Glide & Gear

Apr 18, 2025

Maximise Your Commute Savings with the Cycle Solutions Scheme

Cycling to work is a powerful way to improve your physical health, reduce travel costs, and embrace a more active lifestyle. The Cycle Solutions Scheme is a well-established, government-backed Cycle to Work programme that helps UK employees access new bicycles (and electric bikes) and accessories while saving on tax.

At Glide & Gear, we accept Cycle Solutions vouchers and support commuters looking for the most efficient and cost-effective way to get the right bike for their daily journeys.

What Is the Cycle Solutions Scheme?

Cycle Solutions partners with employers across the UK to deliver a fully managed Cycle to Work programme. Employees save up to 42% on the total cost of a bike and accessories through a salary sacrifice arrangement. Payments are taken directly from gross salary, before tax and National Insurance, which reduces the effective cost.

Cycle Solutions is especially popular among large employers, councils, and NHS trusts, and offers dedicated support, employer branding, and easy online account management.

How the Scheme Works

Using the Cycle Solutions Scheme is a straightforward process:

1. Confirm that your employer is registered with Cycle Solutions.

2. Choose your preferred electric bike and accessories from an approved retailer such as Glide & Gear.

3. Get a quote or basket reference for your chosen items.

4. Submit your application through the Cycle Solutions portal.

5. Once your employer approves it, a voucher is issued.

6. Use the voucher to collect your bike and begin your commute.

7. Salary deductions begin, spread over 12 to 18 months depending on your employer’s terms.

At the end of the agreement, you’ll be offered options such as extending the hire, returning the equipment, or purchasing it at fair market value.

Why Choose the Cycle Solutions Scheme?

● Tax-Efficient Savings

Save up to 42% on your cycle-to-work package through pre-tax salary deductions.

● Fully Managed Scheme

Cycle Solutions handles the administration, approvals, and communication—ideal for large teams and HR departments.

● Employer-Branded Portals

Employers can offer a seamless branded experience for staff using the scheme.

● Excellent Bike Selection

A wide choice of commuter bikes, electric bikes, accessories, and safety gear.

● Backed by Public Sector Organisations

Trusted by NHS Trusts, schools, and councils throughout the UK.

Who Can Apply?

Any UK employee whose company is registered with Cycle Solutions can apply, provided the salary sacrifice does not bring their wage below the National Minimum Wage. Employers can register for free, and the scheme is open to both public and private sector teams.

Are There Any Limits?

Cycle Solutions does not enforce a hard cap, but your employer may set a limit on how much you can spend. Many offer a standard cap of £1,000, while others allow higher budgets—especially for electric bike and full commuting kits. Always confirm with your HR department before selecting your gear.

Important Considerations Before Applying

● You won’t technically own the bike during the hire period. Ownership may be transferred at the end of the agreement, usually for a small fee.

● Salary sacrifice may reduce your pension contributions or affect certain statutory benefits.

● Some employers may impose brand, retailer, or accessory restrictions.

● The approval timeline can vary, especially in larger organisations.

Why Many Customers Prefer Buying Directly from Glide & Gear

While Cycle Solutions offers solid long-term savings, many of our customers choose to buy directly from Glide & Gear for speed, flexibility, and upfront value. 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. Immediate Ownership

The bike is yours from the moment you buy it—no leasing or end-of-term charges.

3. No Spending Caps or Restrictions

Choose the exact electric bike and accessories you want without employer-set limits or exclusions. You can also purchase any bike from our range and not be restricted by UK's EAPC regulations when making your choice.

4. Faster Delivery and Dedicated Support

Skip delays and get help from our team to find the ideal setup for your commute. We're here to recommend the perfect setup for your route, height, and riding style—without scheme-related delays.

Then buying directly from Glide & Gear—with a guaranteed 5–7% discount applied on the non-sale price—is often the faster, more flexible way to get riding.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Cycle Solutions is a reliable scheme for those working in large organisations or the public sector, especially if your HR team is already enrolled. But if you’d prefer:

● Faster delivery and checkout

● Full ownership from day one

● No brand or budget restrictions

● Or you’re not eligible for Cycle to Work

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 Cycle Solutions, you can check eligibility or learn more at www.cyclesolutions.info.

Need Help Deciding?

Our team can help you explore both routes. Whether you're using a Cycle Solutions voucher or planning to buy directly, we’ll guide you to the right commuter bike with professional support and expert recommendations.

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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.