Whether you want to make a longer commute feel more manageable, arrive at work with energy to spare, or simply rediscover the fun of cycling, electric bikes give you an extra boost when you need one.

E-bikes combine the freedom of cycling with electric assistance while you pedal. That can make hills easier, longer journeys more realistic, and everyday commuting more accessible, whether you’re new to cycling, returning after a break, or are already spending plenty of time on two wheels. There are also more types of electric bikes to choose from than ever, from practical city e-bikes to electric mountain bikes and compact folding models.

Through Cyclescheme, electric bikes are more accessible than ever too. With our Cycle to Work Scheme, you could save up to 47% on a new e-bike and eligible cycling accessories through your employer while spreading the cost with tax-efficient salary sacrifice payments.

So, read on to learn more about e-bikes with our guide below and start making your commute easier than ever.

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What Are Electric Bikes? E-Bikes Explained

An e-bike, or electric bike, works much like a conventional bicycle with a little extra help built in. Most road-legal e-bikes used for commuting in the UK combine three main components:

• A motor: Provides electric assistance while you pedal.
• A battery: Stores the power used by the electric motor and can be recharged.
• A display or controller: Lets you select assistance levels and, depending on the model, check information such as speed, distance, and remaining battery power.

You still pedal an electric bike. The motor simply adds assistance, helping you maintain momentum when tackling hills, setting off from junctions, or covering a longer distance.

Why choose an e-bike for commuting?

Electric bikes can make cycling to work practical for journeys that may feel difficult on a conventional road bike. Electric assistance can help when you encounter steep hills, strong headwinds, or longer distances. You can also adjust the assistance on many e-bikes, giving you more control over how much effort you put into each ride.

An e-bike commute still keeps you active while giving you support when you want it. You can skip traffic queues, avoid hunting for a parking space, and build regular movement into your working day. For new and returning cyclists, that extra assistance can also make the idea of cycling to work feel far more achievable.

You can even work out how much money you could expect to save by commuting with an e-bike (or any other bike) with the Cyclescheme savings calculator.

Types of electric bikes: which e-bike suits you?

There are different types of electric bikes, and each one works best for different journeys:

• City e-bikes suit everyday urban commuting.
• Hybrid e-bikes combine features suited to roads and lighter trails.
• Electric mountain bikes provide extra assistance across steeper or rougher terrain.
• Folding e-bikes can work well if your commute combines cycling with a train or if you have limited storage space.

You’ll also find electric cargo bikes designed to carry heavier loads, which can be useful when transporting shopping, equipment, or children. When choosing your electric bike, think about your commute first. Distance, terrain, storage, and how you plan to use your e-bike outside work can all help narrow down the right type for you.

How far can electric bikes travel?

This is a ‘how long is a piece of string’ question. In general, e-bike distance from a single charge ranges anywhere from 20 to 100 miles. Ultimately, the distance you can cover boils down to four main factors:

• Power: The size of your motor, battery charge, and level of assistance you choose.
• Weight: Yours and that of any luggage you’re carrying.
• Terrain: Be that a city, steep incline, or canal path.
• Weather: The wind, rain, and temperature all play a part.

When choosing an e-bike, think about factors within your control, i.e. weight and terrain. Also check the manufacturer’s estimated range and consider your actual return commute rather than relying on the maximum figure alone. With this info, a local bike shop can help to match you with the best e-bike for your needs.

How much do e-bikes cost?

So, how much are e-bikes? Prices vary depending on the motor, battery, frame, components, and features you choose.

Entry level e-bikes, i.e. basic models built for shorter commutes can typically start at around £500 and go up to around £1,000. From there the price range increases, with mid-range models costing approximately £1,000 to £2,500. Beyond this, the more heavily equipped and premium models reach several thousand pounds and higher.

Your ideal budget should reflect how often you’ll ride and what your commute demands. A rider covering longer distances every day may value battery capacity and higher-quality components more than somebody travelling a few miles through town.

Fortunately, Cyclescheme is here to make electric bikes of any price more accessible by helping eligible employees save up to 47% through salary sacrifice payments.

Get Cyclescheme electric bikes through your employer

If your employer offers Cyclescheme, you could save up to 47% on an electric bike and eligible cycling accessories. Cyclescheme uses salary sacrifice, so payments come from your salary before Income Tax and National Insurance deductions. There’s nothing to pay upfront, and there’s no employee credit check.

Once you know your employer offers Cyclescheme, you can apply for the amount you need. Your employer reviews your application and, once approved, you’ll receive your Cyclescheme Certificate to use with a participating retailer. Cyclescheme works with more than 2,600 bike shops across the UK, including independent shops, major retailers, online stores, and brand-direct partners.

Ready to make your commute an e-bike commute?

Ultimately, an electric bike can open up journeys that might previously have felt too far, too hilly, or simply too much effort before a day at work. You might use your e-bike for the full commute, combine cycling with a train journey, or start with a couple of rides each week while you build confidence. There’s no need to become a seasoned cyclist overnight.

The important part is finding an electric bike that fits your journey and makes you want to ride it. Think about what would make your commute easier, whether that’s more range, a comfortable riding position, space for a work bag, or a folding frame you can take on the train.

With Cyclescheme, you can choose from a wide range of brands to find the e-bike that suits your commute the most. You can also ride the electric bike you buy through Cyclescheme for other purposes too, as long as commuting remains the primary use for your e-bike.

Apply today for a Cyclescheme electric bike , and your commute will be easier than ever in no time.

Apply for an E-Bike with Cyclescheme