Cycle to Work scheme; a safer bet than Santa

There's no doubt about it; Santa discriminates against grown-ups. By the time you've entered the world of work, it doesn't matter how many letters you write, or how well you behave; it's unlikely you'll be surprised by a bicycle under the tree.

Luckily, there's a more dependable way to treat yourself to the bike of your dreams. The Cycle to Work scheme is a tax-free initiative that can save you money on a brand new bike; you pay for the bike with a monthly fee directly from your salary before tax. And depending on your income tax bracket, you can save 32-42 per cent on the cost of a bike and accessories.

At the end of this so-called 'hire' period, you can buy the bike from your employer - usually for nominal fee.

Do I need insurance for my Cycle to Work bike?

Yes. Quite apart from all the benefits included in a good cycle insurance policy, if your bicycle is stolen, you're still liable for the remainder of your payments. Here at the ETA we insure many Cycle to Work bikes. It's quick and easy to get a quote, our policy is fully comprehensive and rest assured that you're in safe hands; we're named the UK's most ethical provider by The Good Shopping Guide.

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We never devalue, so if your Cycle to Work bike is stolen, you won't be left short. And if you opt for an e-bike and its battery is pinched, don't worry - we cover that as standard.

How do I encourage my employer to get involved in the Cycle to Work scheme?

If your workplace doesn't have a Cycle to Work scheme in place, it's a good idea to do a straw poll among your colleagues to gauge interest before approaching your employer. When you're ready, refer them to this Cycle to Work guidance published by the government.

Can I buy an e-bike on the Cycle to Work scheme?

Yes, and e-bikes can be an excellent choice for commuting. Here in the UK, e-bikes continue to be the only type of electric vehicle (EV) to benefit from absolutely no grants whatsoever. However, the Cycle to Work scheme isn't too prescriptive about the type of bike you choose; E-bikes are permitted and there isn't a price cap - although you'll have to check whether your employer wants to apply a limit.

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance, breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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