If you have been thinking of how to get to work in a healthier manner whilst saving on transport costs, perhaps the time has come to consider the bike to work scheme. With the goal of inspiring more biking for your everyday transit, this program gives you big discounts on a new bike and perhaps some additional gear. On your bike in a busy town or low-key suburb, the Bike to Work Ireland initiative is a free pass to improved health — and a cool kit.

However, those are terrible ways to utilize the scheme, and there is a more intelligent way to do so. This blog will explain how to cheat the cycle-to-work scheme for maximum value, what the best bike brands are to keep an eye on, and a couple of pro tips to set you off the right way.

What is the Bike to Work Scheme Anyway?

Let’s start with the basics. In Ireland, the Cycle to Work scheme enables employees to buy a bike and safety gear free of tax via an employer. Discounts are redeemed through your salary, which means you’re really getting a discount of 51% at the upper end, depending on your tax bracket.

This consists of €1,250 to spend on standard bikes and equipment and €1,500 on electric bikes. And this is not a one-and-done — you can reapply every four years. 

Hack #01: Choose Your Bike Like a Pro

The first and most prominent question people have is–What bike should I buy? Well, it really depends on your route, lifestyle, and budget. But whatever it is you like, don’t hop into the first bright, shiny, and hot car that catches your eye. Also, riding a decent bike to work is a good way you can stay on something that lasts long; it is comfortable and a good performance.

Cube Bikes

Both new and experienced cyclists have a tendency to go for Cube bikes. They are known for their German engineering & fast designs with great frame quality & reliability. From city commuting to the occasional weekend light trail, Cube has a hybrid or road bike for the job.

Giant Bikes

Giant Bikes is another major player in the cycling industry. From city cruisers to serious road bikes, they make perfect sense for commuters looking for long-term value and versatility. They, too, focus heavily on comfort and design, making those early morning rides far more enjoyable.

Hack #02:  Never Leave Out Accessories

And this is where Cycle to Work is best; it is not only about the bike. All of this can form part of the total value — helmets, locks, panniers, lights, high-vis gear, etc. Use this to your advantage. A good helmet or good biking gear that is resistant to the weather could make all the difference when you have to cycle through the famously unpredictable weather here in Ireland!

Tip: Invest, don’t complain about accessories that enhance your safety, huh? Lights with USB recharge lock, anti-theft, or ergonomic grips wrap around lock. 

Hack#03: Local Bicycle Stores Give You More Bang For Your Buck

Online deals can certainly be enticing, but when you go into a good bike shop, you get more than just a sale; you get experience. They can help you get fitted to the right model for your commute, and their aftersales service is second to none.

Also, having a local shop means repair and maintenance options right there for advice, as well as the ability to test-ride bikes before decisions are made. 

Hack #04: Know the Fine Print

There are plenty of ways to lose out on benefits, the simplest of which is not knowing how the scheme actually functions. Here are a couple of things to bear in mind:

It is required that you use the bike mainly going to and from work (but that does not mean you cannot take it out for weekend rides).

Locally, the scheme only applies to new bikes — there are no second-hand dodges.

You get one bike for every four-year cycle!

Your employer needs to be registered for the scheme (the majority are).

Tip: If your employer does not provide the scheme, encourage them to take it on. That really is the best of both worlds — employers get PRSI reductions as well.

Hack #05: Time Your Purchase

If you are about to apply for the Bike to Work Ireland scheme, schedule your purchase for a new model move-out date. As new stock arrives, lots of bicycle shops will have sales on last year’s models By this, we mean a premium motorcycle with premium bits for a fraction of the cost.

Lastly, spring and early summer are peak buying seasons, so don’t wait too long — the best bikes can go quickly.

Conclusion: Get More Than a Bike

Taking the Bike to Work scheme is not simply a monetary hack — it is a change in habit. You not only get to spend the money on the thing that matters, like your own health and lower your carbon footprint, but also take back your commute time. For expert advice on maximizing the benefits of the Cycle to Work scheme here in Ireland, be sure to visit The Cycle Centre Dundalk. With their seasoned staff, they can connect you to your ideal bike, save you money, and have you easily riding away, grinning on the best ride out there.

FAQ

Q: What is the Cycle to Work Scheme in Ireland?
It’s a government initiative that lets employees buy a new bike and accessories tax-free through their employer, saving up to 51% depending on their tax bracket.

Q: How much can I spend through the scheme?
Up to €1,250 for a regular bike and €1,500 for an electric bike, including safety gear and accessories.

Q: Can I use the bike for non-work purposes too?
Yes — as long as the bike is primarily used for commuting to and from work, you can also ride it for leisure.

Q: How often can I use the scheme?
Once every four years.

Q: Can I buy accessories with the scheme?
Absolutely. Helmets, locks, lights, panniers, and high-vis gear can all be included in your total budget.

Q: Does it apply to second-hand bikes?
No, the scheme only covers new bikes and equipment.

Q: Do all employers offer the scheme?
Most do, but your employer must be registered. If not, encourage them — it offers them PRSI savings too.

Q: When is the best time to buy?
Look out for end-of-season sales or new model release periods to get the best value on higher-end bikes.