Your Complete Guide To eBike Rebates Incentives

Whether you’re a longtime eBike rider or a new enthusiast, it’s reasonable to approach the cost with a bit of hesitation. Even the most affordable eBikes often start at four figures, and higher quality, customized bikes are even more expensive. It’s a worthwhile investment — but an investment nonetheless. Luckily, there are several opportunities that may allow you to offset the cost of an eBike. Find out how you can take advantage of the various rebates and incentives that are available to eBike cyclists.

What Is the Nationwide eBike Act?

The Nationwide eBike Act is a bill proposing that consumers receive a 30% tax credit of up to $1,500 for the purchase of a qualifying eBike. Though the bill has not yet been passed, it’s gained impressive traction, proving the value that eBikes can bring to communities. The act includes a provision that the credit may be renewed every three years per individual. It also calls for detailed reporting from the IRS to better understand the demographics of credit recipients.

California

Though the Nationwide eBike Act is still a proposal, there are many states and communities that have passed their own rebate and incentive programs, including California. The Monterey Bay Air Resources District has created the so-called eBIP program — short for Monterey Bay e-Bike Incentive Program. Low-income applicants who meet the program’s criteria may be able to receive a $1,000 rebate on an eBike. The eBike must be priced between $1,000 and $4,000, and it must be a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 model.

Colorado

Many cities in Colorado have also established incentives for eBike riders. Denver is a pioneer of these programs, offering instant $400 rebates that are issued prior to the purchase of an eBike. This rebate is offered in conjunction with certain, preapproved bike shops that participate in the program. Cyclists who purchase an e-Cargo bike can receive an instant $500 rebate. Applicants who qualify for additional assistance based on their income may receive up to $1,200 in instant rebates.

Michigan

Ann Arbor has emerged as a leader in the state of Michigan for offering eBike incentives. The city has established partnerships with several local bike shops selling eBikes and subsidizes a $100 discount on select models as well as a $50 credit for eBike accessories.

Oregon

Several cities, counties, and retail stores throughout Oregon incentivize residents to invest in eBikes. Ashland Electric promises to provide a $300 rebate on eBike purchases for the first 50 customers to enroll in the incentive. The rebate can only be used at participating bike shops in Ashland. Benton County, Oregon residents can also get an incentive if their household income meets eligibility criteria. The Empower Benton County E-Bike Program is coordinated by the Oregon Clean Fuels Program and funded by Pacific Power. Those who qualify may be able to receive a full rebate for the purchase price of an eBike.

Texas

The city of Austin is at the forefront of eBike incentives for Texas. A program coordinated by Austin Energy offers customers rebates of up to $300 for qualifying individuals. Fleets of eBikes may be eligible for up to $400 in rebates. This program is available to both residential and commercial customers.

New York

New York is one of the few states working towards a statewide incentive for eBikes. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority — NYSERDA — is currently proposing a bill to fund an eBike program called Ride Clean. The program would provide New York residents with immediate rebates of up to 50% or $1,400. The program, if approved, would aim to cut down on carbon emissions throughout the state.