Cyclescheme UK Guide: Save Up to 39% on Your Commute with Glide & Gear
Apr 19, 2025
Maximise Your Commute Savings with the Cyclescheme Programme
Cycling to work is an increasingly popular choice for commuters across the UK, offering a combination of financial savings, health benefits, and greener travel. One of the most widely used Cycle to Work options is Cyclescheme—a government-backed programme that helps employees spread the cost of a new bike and accessories through salary sacrifice.
At Glide & Gear, we proudly accept Cyclescheme vouchers, and we’re here to help you make an informed decision based on your needs, budget, and timeframe.
What is the Cyclescheme Programme?
The Cyclescheme Programme enables employees to save up to 39% on the cost of a new electric bicycle and essential cycling accessories. Rather than paying upfront, the cost is deducted from your gross salary over a fixed period—usually 12 to 18 months—allowing you to benefit from reductions in Income Tax and National Insurance.
The programme is designed to promote active commuting and reduce dependency on cars and public transport. It supports a broad range of commuter-friendly bikes, including electric bikes (e-bikes), hybrid models, folding bikes, and safety equipment.
How the Scheme Works
The process of joining Cyclescheme is simple and entirely digital:
Step 1: Confirm that your employer is registered with Cyclescheme. Registration is free and widely available.
Step 2: Choose your ideal electric bike and accessories from an approved retailer like Glide & Gear.
Step 3: Apply for a voucher through the Cyclescheme platform, based on the total value of your selected products.
Step 4: Once approved by your employer, order your items at Glide & Gear or a similar retailer and begin your commute.
Step 5: Repay the cost monthly through automatic salary deductions, enjoying instant tax savings with every payment.
At the end of the hire period, you may be offered the option to extend the hire, return the bike, or purchase it outright for fair market value.
Why Choose the Cyclescheme Programme?
1. Substantial Cost Savings
Save up to 39% on bikes and gear through tax-free salary deductions, making it easier to afford premium options.
2. No Upfront Payment
Spread the cost monthly through payroll—no large upfront expense required.
3. Flexible Range of Bikes and Accessories
Choose from a wide variety of electric bikes including commuter bikes, folding models, fat tyre bikes, cargo bikes as well as all the essentials like helmets and locks.
4. Promotes Long-Term Health and Wellbeing
Daily cycling improves fitness, mental clarity, and energy levels.
5. Support for Employers
Employers save on National Insurance and offer a valuable wellness benefit to staff.
Who Can Apply?
Most UK employees are eligible, as long as the salary sacrifice does not reduce take-home pay below the National Minimum Wage. Public and private sector staff can use the scheme, provided their employer is enrolled. If your company isn’t registered yet, it only takes a few minutes to sign up.
Are There Any Limits?
Cyclescheme itself does not impose a maximum value, but some employers may set internal caps—commonly around £1,000. Larger budgets are often approved for electric bikes or full equipment packages. Always check with your HR team before choosing your products.
Important Considerations Before Applying
- The bike remains the property of your employer during the scheme period. You may be offered ownership at the end for a fair market value fee
- Salary sacrifice can affect contributions to pensions, life insurance, and statutory pay entitlements
- Some employers may take several days or weeks to approve applications, causing delays in delivery
- Internal spending limits may restrict your choice of bike or accessories
- There are restrictions on which bikes are applicable for cycle to work schemes. You are limited to bicycles that meet current UK EAPC regulations.
Why Many Customers Prefer Buying Direct from Glide & Gear
While Cyclescheme offers valuable benefits, many customers choose to buy their bikes directly from Glide & Gear for a faster and more flexible experience. 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 Ownership Complications
The bike is yours from day one. No additional costs or end-of-hire decisions to worry about.
3. No Restrictions on Selection
Choose any bike, in any size, from our full range—without employer-imposed limits or scheme exclusions.
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 Cyclescheme Programme is a great choice for those who are eligible and willing to wait for employer approval. But if you prefer:
- Immediate ownership
- Faster checkout and dispatch
- Freedom to choose any bike
- Or if you’re 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 Cyclescheme, you can learn more about how the programme works and check your eligibility at www.cyclescheme.co.uk.
Need Help Deciding?
Our team is here to support you. Whether you’re redeeming a Cyclescheme voucher or looking to buy outright with an exclusive discount, we’ll help you find the right bike for your journey, lifestyle, and budget.
Get in touch today to browse our latest models or request your personalised discount. The smarter way to commute starts here.
