Staff "Try-Before-You-Buy" eBike scheme
The University has a fleet of 8 eBikes for staff to borrow on a trial basis.
April 2023 Update
We are still preparing this scheme to be relaunched with our new fleet of bikes. You can sign up below to join the waiting list and hear when a bike is available for you.
Staff can borrow an eBike for up to a month to try out commuting on it. The purpose of this “Try-Before-You-Buy” scheme is to help you decide if commuting by eBike is a good fit for your circumstances. Bike shops will usually let you test ride a bike, but that doesn't help you figure out if your commute would be feasible, or if the bike would physically fit into your home. Our scheme provides staff with an easy way to work out these smaller details before committing to an eBike of their own, which can be a considerable expense.
If you decide you like the experience, you can use the Cycle to Work scheme to get your own. This provides a discount of usually at least 32%.
About our eBikes
An eBike is just like a regular bicycle, but with a small electric motor that assists you when you pedal. This means you can arrive at your destination comfortably without exertion, even after cycling up a steep hill. We have 3 different types of eBike to choose from:
This is a folding bike with a detachable battery. It packs down very small - you can easily fit it under a desk - and it is surprisingly light too (around 17kg). It has 6 gears, mudguards, and integrated lights. More info here.
This is a full-sized hybrid bike, designed for an upright (i.e., comfortable) riding position. There are lots of practical touches: it has a pannier rack (and bag), full length mudguards, integrated lights, and the 7-speed drivechain is fully enclosed. The frame is "low-step", meaning it is easy to get on/off and you can easily ride in work clothes. More info here.
This is a cargo bike that can carry a lot (it's rated for up to 170kg total load-weight), but is only slightly bigger than a normal bike. You can transport a child, a big family food shop, or (almost) anything else! We have two versions: one set up for carrying toddlers, and one for carrying older children. It can be stood on its back-end to reduce its storage footprint. More info here.
Which bike is right for me?
We are happy to speak to you to offer further guidance, but as a general rule...
- Bromptons are ideal if you live in a flat, don't have a lot of storage space, or want to incorporate public transport into your commute (e.g., cycling to train station).
- Gazelles are the closest to a "normal" bike. The standard sized wheels and suspension will soak up road bumps, and the upright riding position and step-through frame make for a very comfy ride. You will need a bit of space at home, however.
- Terns are for families, or people who need to carry a lot. These bikes require the most space (although they are still only slightly bigger than a normal bike). They are heavy and difficult to carry up stairs however, so should ideally be kept in a garage or shed.
How does the scheme work?
- Register your interest via this form.
- Once your chosen bike is available, the Transport Office will contact you with further information. Depending on demand, you may be on the waiting list for a few months.
- To use the scheme, you will need to pay a refundable £100 deposit, and a non-refundable £20 hiring fee (this fee covers the costs of maintenance). This is done through ePay, the University's online shop.
- Once a bike is available and you've paid the fees, the Transport Office will arrange to meet you with the bike and provide you with an induction into its usage. You will also be asked to sign a hire agreement. The bike is then yours to use for a month - the scheme is primarily intended for commuting, but you are welcome to use the bike for leisure or business journeys too.
- Once the month is up, return the bike to the Transport Office and your £100 deposit will be refunded. You will be asked to complete a short feedback survey. We can also provide you with advice about the Cycle2Work scheme, should you be interested in getting your own eBike.
Project funding
This project was funded in part by Transport Scotland via the Energy Saving Trust's eBike Grant Fund. We are grateful for their support.