Making cycling e-asier impact
The Making cycling e-asier programme is helping more people experience the benefits of electric cycles (e-cycles). Whether you're new to cycling, getting back on a bike after a break, or simply curious about e-cycles, this initiative makes it easy and safe to give them a try.
What the programme offers:
- Free one-month e-cycle loans, so you can test an e-cycle and see if it suits your needs
- Taster sessions and information events, where you can meet our expert team and try out an e-cycle in a supportive environment
Evolution of the programme
Launched in May 2022 and originally funded by Active Travel England, Making cycling e-asier began in four pilot regions: Manchester, Sheffield, Leicester & Burton-on-Trent, and Luton & Dunstable.
From 1 July 2024, funding was devolved to Local Authorities. In Luton & Dunstable, the programme continues under the same name, led by Luton Borough Council. In Manchester, it has rebranded as Borrow an e-bike, funded by Transport for Greater Manchester. Cycling UK successfully retendered to deliver the programme in both cities through 2025.
Despite the shift in delivery, the core offer remains the same: free one-month e-cycle loans and community events designed to increase e-cycle use, support active travel, improve health, and reduce inequality.
Key stats since launch
- Over 4,800 free e-cycle loans enabled people to try pedal-assist bikes first-hand—replacing car trips and building sustainable travel habits
- Over 21,500 people attended taster sessions and information events—boosting confidence and improving knowledge of e-cycling
- More than 1,500 community events delivered—raising awareness, breaking down barriers and giving people a chance to get in the saddle with expert support
Who’s taking part and what they say
Gender-balanced participation: 60% of participants were men and 40% were women.
Reflecting local diversity: 41% of participants came from ethnic minority backgrounds.
High satisfaction: 98% rated their experience with the scheme as good or very good.
Spreading the word: 92% said they were likely to recommend an e-cycle to friends or family.
Feeling safer: 75% reported feeling safe or very safe cycling in their local area after taking part in the loan scheme.
I can’t express how grateful I was to discover the e-bike loan. The loan was a godsend for me after my previous e-bike was stolen. Taking the bus doubled my travel time and my old bike was making my health conditions worse.
I managed to pick up my loan just a few days after my initial enquiry and helped me get around while I waited for the Cycle to Work scheme to replace my stolen e-bike. Thank you!
Ellen and Will who run the Manchester scheme were phenomenal - they took me through the process from start to finish perfectly, so knowledgeable in all aspects of e-cycling.
When the mudguard slipped at home, Will got on a video call to quickly help me reattach and get me on my way again.
Case studies
Discover how e-cycles are making everyday journeys easier, healthier and more accessible. From building confidence on busy roads to replacing car commutes, these stories show the real-life impact of Making cycling e-asier across England.
Luton & Dunstable stories
Ready to try an e-cycle for yourself?
If you’re based in Luton & Dunstable or Greater Manchester, it’s not too late to get involved. Our programme is still running in these areas, offering free one-month e-cycle loans and taster sessions so you can discover the benefits of e-cycling for everyday journeys.
