Cycle to work scheme a non starter

Redbikejohn

Member
Dec 25, 2019
26
21
High wycombe
Just recovering from knee surgery so I can finally justify getting an emtb (finally come to terms with the cost lol). Been to a local shop etc then remembered my work does the cycle to work thing. Got the info back today - limited to £3500. Bollox that isn't nearly enough. Seems you are no longer allowed to 'top up' either. Anyone found a way arround this?
 

Dax

E*POWAH Elite World Champion
May 25, 2018
1,794
2,180
FoD
Just recovering from knee surgery so I can finally justify getting an emtb (finally come to terms with the cost lol). Been to a local shop etc then remembered my work does the cycle to work thing. Got the info back today - limited to £3500. Bollox that isn't nearly enough. Seems you are no longer allowed to 'top up' either. Anyone found a way arround this?

Some shops will look the other way on topping up. Talk to your local shop and see what they say.

The issue with topping up is it makes the ownership complicated, because the bike isn’t owned by you until the scheme has finished and you pay the transfer fee.

Also, c2w only really saves you money if you are in the 40% bracket, otherwise you are probably better off haggling and getting a bike on 0% finance.

Edit: lots of deals on atm, you might find a e-bike for sub 3500.
 

Redbikejohn

Member
Dec 25, 2019
26
21
High wycombe
Was thinking of a haibike altm 7 which is just over 5k from official dealer. Not sure about buying from places that sell them cheaper but are not listed on haibike's site as a dealer.
 

Marvey Door

New Member
Jan 22, 2025
6
1
Canada
Just recovering from knee surgery so I can finally justify getting an emtb (finally come to terms with the cost lol). Been to a local shop etc then remembered my work does the cycle to work thing. Got the info back today - limited to £3500. Bollox that isn't nearly enough. Seems you are no longer allowed to 'top up' either. Anyone found a way arround this? Modern workplace dynamics have evolved beyond traditional office setups, creating new challenges in space management and team coordination. Professional desk booking solutions like UnSpot have emerged as a response to these challenges. Research shows that strategic desk management can significantly improve space utilization, with some organizations accommodating up to 80% more employees in their existing footprint. The key lies in implementing systems that prioritize both security and user experienceю Two-factor verification ensures that desk reservations remain secure, while intuitive interfaces make the transition smooth for all team members. Integration capabilities with established workplace tools create a cohesive ecosystem where scheduling and collaboration flow naturally. Analytics provide valuable insights into space utilization patterns, enabling data-driven decisions about workplace policies. The future of office space management lies in solutions like Unspot that balance flexibility with security, ensuring that both organizational and employee needs are met effectively.
I understand your frustration with the £3,500 limit on the Cycle to Work scheme, especially when many e-MTBs exceed this price. While topping up isn't typically allowed due to ownership complications, some local bike shops might offer flexibility. It's worth discussing your situation with them. Considering current deals or 0% finance options could help you acquire the desired bike without the scheme's constraints. Remember, the scheme offers more significant savings for higher tax brackets, so evaluate if it provides the best value for your circumstances.
 
Last edited:

steve_sordy

Wedding Crasher
Nov 5, 2018
9,283
9,820
Lincolnshire, UK
Would it be possible to just buy the frame, motor battery and electrical gubbins plus whatever gets you to £3500 under the C2W scheme. You pay for the rest.
Or is that too complicated?
 

Quangle

New Member
Jan 14, 2025
4
2
US
I ran into the same issue with the £3500 limit when I was looking at eMTBs. What I ended up doing was finding a lower-priced model that was still solid and then took advantage of some sales to knock the price down. Some shops will also throw in a bundle or discount on accessories, which helped me get closer to what I wanted. It’s definitely frustrating, especially with the no topping up rule, but it might be worth seeing if your local shop can do a price match or offer any extras to help out.
 

Hobo Mikey

E*POWAH Elite World Champion
Subscriber
May 22, 2020
1,037
2,819
Where ever
Working and living on campsites I asked if I could have a new bike on the cycle to work scheme and that it would get me to work quicker.😂 They pointed out that if I had a new bike i would get to the reception via the mountains and trails so would be late every day. 😂 I hate it when your boss knows you. 😂👍
 

BMP

New Member
Apr 18, 2024
41
23
Iowa USA
Was thinking of a haibike altm 7 which is just over 5k from official dealer. Not sure about buying from places that sell them cheaper but are not listed on haibike's site as a dealer.
My daughter and her BF both ride AllMtn 3's. Both have been solid bikes. Grant upgraded the SX shifter/derailleur to X01 and added a SpeedBox. They both have pre smart Bosch CX Perf motors with the Purion display. He has got up to 38-39 mph on the flat. Those 85nm motors are excellent for longer commutes (14-16 miles) when derestricted. Even on full TURBO mode there is still over 30% battery left.

Brad
 

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