E-cycle trial scheme in York
This post was originally published in 2021. It shared early success from the E-Cycle Switch scheme in York. The programme is no longer running, but we are keeping this page as an archive.
About the E-Cycle Switch scheme
The E-Cycle Switch scheme was delivered in partnership with City of York Council.
It gave people living, working, or studying in York the chance to try an e-cycle before buying. As a result, more people could experience electric cycling without commitment.
Participants could borrow an e-cycle from a local bike shop. After the trial, they could decide if it suited their needs.
A real customer story
One of the early participants, Jack Rose, aged 84, took part in the scheme.
He trialled an Etnnic electric trike and found it worked well for him. As a result, he chose to go ahead and purchase one.
He was then able to enjoy cycling again, including spending time riding with his great-grandchildren.
Stories like this showed how e-cycles can support people to stay active and independent.
We offer our full range of inclusive e-cycles for 1-day trials (unless otherwise stated), including recumbents, upright trikes and tandems.
Inclusive e-cycle options
At the time, we offered a wide range of e-cycle trials. These included:
- Electric trikes
- Recumbent e-cycles
- Electric tandems
This helped ensure people could try a cycle that suited their comfort, balance, and mobility needs.
What the scheme offered
The scheme included:
- Free short-term e-cycle trials
- Access to inclusive and adapted e-cycles
- A discount towards purchase after completing a trial
This made it easier for people to explore electric cycling as a realistic option.
E-cycling today
Although the E-Cycle Switch scheme has ended, interest in e-cycles continues to grow.
At Get Cycling CIC, we still support people to explore electric cycling through:
- Advice on choosing the right e-cycle
- Access to inclusive and adapted options
- Opportunities to try different cycle types
E-cycles can make cycling more accessible. For example, they can help with hills, longer distances, or reduced strength and stamina.
Looking ahead
This 2021 scheme showed how effective try-before-you-buy approaches can be.
We continue to support inclusive cycling in York and beyond. Our Pathways to Pedals programme offers free cycle loans. Our aim is to help more people find a cycle that works for them.