Cleveland residents have a new opportunity to reduce the cost of buying an electric bicycle through a citywide e-bike rebate pilot program.
The City of Cleveland and Bike Cleveland launched the one-year program with applications opening September 1. The pilot will provide 100 rebates to eligible city residents.
Standard rebates are $500. Income-qualified residents can receive rebates of up to $1,500. Applicants who meet income requirements or participate in qualifying assistance programs can be considered for the higher amount.
The program is open to Cleveland residents age 18 and older, and only one e-bike rebate can be awarded per household. Eligible applicants will enter a random drawing, so applying does not guarantee a rebate.
Residents selected for the program will have 60 days to use their rebate. Purchases must be made through a participating bicycle shop in Cuyahoga County.
Qualifying purchases include new Class 1 or Class 2 electric bicycles with UL-certified batteries. Used e-bikes do not qualify. If money remains after the bicycle purchase, eligible rebate funds can also be used for approved safety equipment such as a helmet or bicycle lock.
Participating shops listed by the city include Cain Park Bicycle in Cleveland Heights, Joy Machines Bike Shop in Cleveland, Sixth City Cycle in Cleveland and Spin Bike Shop in Lakewood.
The program is supported by the George Gund Foundation and other philanthropic funding. Cleveland says the pilot is connected to its climate and transportation goals by giving residents another option for trips to work, school, stores and neighborhood destinations.
Income does not determine whether a Cleveland resident can apply. It is used to determine whether a selected applicant qualifies for the standard $500 rebate or the larger income-qualified benefit.
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