2 hours ago - Transit

Cleveland launches e-bike rebate program

Sam Allard

an illustration of an electric bicycle surrounded by circles and cutouts of dollar bills — Illustration: Tiffany Herring/Axios

Cleveland is offering residents up to $1,500 toward a new e-bike as part of a pilot program launching Tuesday.

Why it matters: E-bikes are faster and easier to ride than regular bikes and more environmentally friendly than cars, but their upfront cost puts them out of reach for many residents.

Most new mainstream e-bikes retail for about $1,000-$2,500.

Catch up quick: E-bikes use battery-powered motors to assist riders as they pedal, with normal speeds in the 15-20 miles per hour range.

By the numbers: Cleveland will award up to 100 rebates through a random drawing in two categories:

$500 for any adult Cleveland resident.
$1,500 for residents whose household income is at or below 80% of the area median income.

Between the lines: The rebates can be used at participating local bike shops for qualifying e-bikes and safety equipment.

What's next: Applications open Sept. 1 at EBikeCleveland.com.

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Cleveland launches e-bike rebate program

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