Employers urged to join bike scheme

Businesses across the country are being called on to sign up to the government’s Cycle to Work scheme

According to bike retailers, there is huge interest from people frustrated that their company has not signed up to the scheme. So far fewer than 100 public sector organisations and major companies, including the likes of local authorities, the NHS and GlaxoSmithKline, have joined the scheme.

How does the Cycle to Work scheme work?

The scheme allows people to buy a bicycle at a sizeable discount if it is to be used for commuting. Once an employer is signed up to the scheme, payments for the bicycle are taken directly from the participant’s gross salary – the total saving on the bicycle can be over 30 per cent.

Protect your Cycle to Work bicycle from theft

Try to stay one step ahead of bike thieves by taking the following simple steps:

• Insure your bike – according to research only 2 per cent of cyclists have adequate insurance. You may be covered on your household insurance policy, but read the small print. Spend a little time doing research before you buy cycle insurance as some providers offer much more for your money. Cycle insurance from the ETA includes new-for-old replacement, third party insurance (in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else), personal accident cover and if you breakdown, they will even come out and recover you and your bike. More info

• Buy a good lock – Aim to spend 10 per cent of your bike’s value on a stout lock and make sure you use it properly; always secure the frame and do not leave the lock on the ground as it makes it easier for the thief to smash

Compare the cycle insurance market

A highly-competitive market has now prompted one cycle insurance provider to include third party and personal injury cover as standard.

A spokesperson for the ETA said: “Just as with any other type of insurance, it is vital that people shop around – many cyclists are paying over the odds for the extras that we include for free.”

Related cycling articles:

• Cycle to Work scheme – more information
• Grow your own bicycle
• The ultimate folder – win a 24ct gold Brompton

• The electric bicycle of the future is…a penny farthing