Free electric bike trials for commuters in Leeds

Commuters in Leeds can now borrow an electric bike free of charge for up to two weeks, as part of a new council initiative to promote sustainable travel,

Electric bikes, which make cycling easier and more accessible for many, have surged in popularity over recent years. Leeds City Council hopes that the trials will encourage more commuters to leave their car at home and build more sustainable and active habits.

A single charge will assist cyclists for dozens of miles and the bikes can easily be charged at home or work using a standard socket. Both fixed and folding e-bikes are available to borrow.

The scheme follows the success of the council’s similar ‘EV Trials’ scheme earlier this year, which gives businesses, charities and other organisations the opportunity to trial an electric van at no cost.

Lisa Mulherin, executive member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainable Development, said: “As part of Leeds City Council’s transport vision and efforts to tackle the climate emergency, we've set ambitious targets to increase active and sustainable travel. We're committed to increasing cycling by 300 per cent and this new scheme is a great way to help do that.

“The new e-bikes scheme is a continuation of our support for cycling following the launch of the pop-up bike hub last month, which provides secure bike parking in the city centre. Not only does cycling improve the health and wellbeing of people living and working in Leeds, but encouraging more people to leave the car at home and take up cycling will reduce our carbon footprint and improve levels of congestion.”