Free e-cycle trial
Transform your commute with a free e-cycle trial
University staff can hire an e-cycle free of charge for up to 4 weeks under this scheme. We are encouraging commuters to give e-cycles a try but without the financial commitment. The electric assistance on e-cycles helps to make journeys much easier allowing longer distances to be cycled and hills to be tackled without breaking a sweat.
How does it work?
- Choose an e-cycle from the range that includes step-through, folding and an e-cargo bike.
- Hire for up to four weeks free of charge.
- Includes locks, lights, helmet (if requested) plus full support & maintenance.
- The scheme is managed by Manchester Bikes on behalf of our University. It will be available on a first come, first served basis. When you sign up, you will receive more information about insurance, handover, overnight storage, locking your e-bike up securely and how to report any problems.
Browse the range and book your hire at University of Manchester e-cycle hire
What happens after the free trial?
- Rent - carry on renting the e-cycle and equipment, from £15 per week. · Buy - purchase your own e-cycle, take interest-free credit or use our Cycle to Work Scheme
- Return - hand your e-cycle and equipment back, without further cost or penalty.
Build your confidence
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) offers a range of riding courses from complete beginners to experienced cyclists if you want to build your confidence:
Further information
Please email es@manchester.ac.uk
Testimonials
E-bikes and arthritis
Hannah Rundle, Director of Faculty Operations, Humanities
Why did you decide to try an e-cycle?
I have rheumatoid arthritis, it is pretty well controlled but I do struggle with mobility. I was keen to find a low impact way to build exercise into my life, and an electric bike seemed like a good idea after talking to a few colleagues. I was nervous about spending a lot of money to discover it wasn’t right for me. However, I was able to hire a bike through the brilliant scheme we offer here at UoM. It took me a while to get confident on the roads, so it is great it is for four weeks, and by the end I loved it!
What are your top 3 benefits of commuting by e-cycle?
Great for my mental and physical health Builds exercise into the time I would normally spend commuting by car or train. Not getting stuck in traffic or waiting for a delayed train.
How did you decide what e-cycle to purchase?
Hired a bike to try, then loads of online research, a spreadsheet comparing a few (!) and then visited a local shop to get some advice and test ride a couple.
How far do you commute on your e-cycle?
12 mile round trip each day.
How did you travel to work before using an e-cycle?
Car or train.
Are there any negatives?
Getting wet, but I've got some good wet weather gear, and it turns out I am happier getting wet than sitting on a delayed, busy train or being stuck in traffic!
What would be your top tip to anyone thinking about commuting by e-bike?
Try before you buy!
E-bikes and hills
Ian Halliwell, Crime Reduction Advisor, Estates and Facilities
Why did you decide to try an e-cycle?
Getting older I found cycling more difficult particularly when it came to hills. I wanted to continue to get the benefit of cycling exercise so the e-bike was the perfect solution.
What are your top 3 benefits of commuting by e-cycle?
As I use the motor assistance sparingly I still get the plenty of cardio/muscle exercise. The additional motor power is there if I need it. The e-bike now allows me to commute to my local train station. I wanted an alternative to driving into work.
How did you decide what e-cycle to purchase?
I sought advice from a cycle outlet. I then went to their shop to try out various models.
How far do you commute on your e-cycle?
Five miles.
How did you travel to work before using an e-cycle?
By car.
Are there any negatives?
No!
What would be your top tip to anyone thinking about commuting by e-bike?
I would definitely advise that you do some research beforehand and then seek professional assistance as to what suits your needs best. Finally a test ride before purchase is a must.