Cycle to Work Schemes vs Direct Discounts: What’s Best for UK Commuters?
Apr 22, 2025
Which Cycle to Work Option Is Right for You? A Comparison of Top UK Schemes vs Glide & Gear’s Direct Discount
If you're considering cycling to work, you're not alone. With fuel prices rising, traffic congestion growing, and a renewed focus on health and sustainability, more UK commuters are turning to bikes as a smarter way to travel.
But the question many people ask is this: Should you go through a Cycle to Work scheme, or is it better to buy your bike directly with a discount?
At Glide & Gear, we support all the major Cycle to Work schemes—but we also offer something many riders don’t expect: a guaranteed 5–7% discount on the original (non-sale) price of any commuter bike when you purchase directly. No paperwork. No waiting. Just immediate savings and total ownership.
Let’s explore your options.
Top Cycle-to-Work Schemes in the UK
These are the most commonly used Cycle to Work providers, each offering unique benefits to employers and employees:
1. Cyclescheme
One of the UK's most established Cycle to Work providers. Offers a wide retailer network and flexible voucher options. Particularly good for commuters who want access to high-street brands and e-bikes.
2. Halfords Cycle2Work
Backed by one of the UK’s largest cycling retailers. Includes Tredz and selected partner shops. Good for in-store collection, but some employers may cap spending or limit where you can redeem vouchers.
3. Vivup
Popular in NHS trusts and the public sector. Offers a straightforward digital system for HR teams and integrates with wellness benefits.
4. Cycle Solutions
Works extensively with councils, schools, and public bodies. Provides employer-branded portals and full administrative support. A strong choice for larger teams.
5. GoGeta
A tech-forward, digital-first platform. Fast processing and flexible employer options make it ideal for start-ups or SMEs.
6. My Benefits World
Integrates Cycle to Work as part of a larger benefits platform. Appeals to organisations that want multiple perks in one place.
7. Caboodle
Used by mid-sized and large firms. Offers automation, analytics, and smooth employee engagement through a centralised system.
8. Bike2Work Scheme
Helps UK employees save up to 48.25% on electric bikes and accessories through salary sacrifice, making commuting more affordable and sustainable.
Each of these schemes allows you to save up to 42% on the cost of an electric bike and accessories by paying through salary sacrifice. But there are a few things they all have in common.
What All Cycle-to-Work Schemes Have in Common
● The bike technically belongs to your employer or the scheme provider during the term.
● You may need to pay a final ‘fair market value’ fee to own the bike outright.
● Your choices might be restricted by the employer’s approved limits or vendors.
● Approval timeframes depend on your HR team and internal workflows.
● As a salary sacrifice scheme, it may impact things like pensions or maternity pay.
So while the savings are real, they come with trade-offs in terms of ownership, flexibility, and timing.
The Glide & Gear Alternative: Buy Directly with Instant Discounts
That’s where Glide & Gear offers a compelling alternative. Instead of applying through your employer, you can buy your commuter or electric bike directly from us and receive an instant 5–7% discount based on the non-sale/original price.
Here’s how our offer compares:
| Feature | Cycle to Work Schemes | Glide & Gear Direct Purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Tax savings | Yes (via salary sacrifice) | No (but direct discount applied) |
| Upfront cost | £0 upfront | Requires direct payment (can be split via buy now, pay later options if needed) |
| Bike ownership | Not immediate | Immediate, full ownership |
| Approval time | Varies by employer | None—instant checkout |
| Discount control | Employer scheme sets limits | You choose any model and receive a fixed discount |
| Flexibility | Scheme rules may restrict options | Total freedom—any bike, any accessory |
| Support | Depends on the scheme provider | Dedicated Glide & Gear team support |
| Hidden fees (end-of-lease) | May apply | None |
Why Many Riders Are Choosing Direct Purchase Over Cycle to Work Schemes
For many customers, the ability to:
● Own the bike outright from day one,
● Skip employer paperwork,
● And still get a sizeable discount on the original price.
Is enough to make direct buying the better option—especially if you're not eligible for salary sacrifice or want to avoid the complexity of scheme approvals.
Even better, the discount isn’t tied to a sale price. If a bike is originally priced at £2,400 but discounted to £2,300, your 5–7% discount is still calculated on the £2,400 original price—giving you greater value than most schemes.
Which Option Is Best for You?
Choose a Cycle to Work scheme if:
● Your employer is already registered
● You’re happy to wait for approvals and own the bike at the end.
● You want to maximise tax savings through salary sacrifice
Choose Glide & Gear’s direct discount if:
● Do you want immediate bike ownership
● You want to skip the admin process.
● You want total freedom to choose your bike and gear.
● Or if you're not eligible for a Cycle to Work scheme
Need Help Deciding?
Whether you plan to use a Cycle to Work voucher or want to purchase independently, we’re here to help. Our team can walk you through the options and ensure you get the best commuter setup—at the best value.
Get in touch today to explore our electric bikes or request your exclusive discount. Your better commute starts here.
