Employers urged to join bike scheme

November 2, 2009

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.”

Cycle insurance from the ETA includes the followingDoes your policy match up?
New-for-old replacement – free race coverNo matter the age or condition of your bicycle
Cover for accidental damage – free race coverMuch like fully-comp car insurance cover
Free Cycle Rescue breakdown cover for bike and rider worth £34If you are unable to continue your journey due to an accident, vandalism or mechanical failure, a van comes to get you
Third-party cover up to £5millionYou don’t need to join a cycling club to get third party insurance – it’s included with this cycle insurance as standard
Personal accident coverPays out up to £20,000 in the case of death or serious injury
Cycle hireIn the event of a claim, keeps you on the road
90 days’ worldwide coverCovers your bike on holiday
‘Get you home’ coverReimbursement for a taxi home should your bike be stolen or damaged
No-claims discountUp to 40 per cent
40 per cent discount for folding bikesThis type of bike is less likely to be stolen, so you shouldn’t be paying the same rates as non-folding cycles


Related cycling articles:

Information correct at time of publication.

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