Forget your four-wheel gas guzzler — electric bicycles are the way of the future! Thanks to the city and the state’s e-bike rebate programs, now is the time to make the switch. Here’s what you need to know.
Denver’s Program
The city launched its e-bike rebate program to tremendous success last spring. Residents hoping to nab a voucher should set their alarms on application day — slots fill up in mere minutes!
- How much: Any Denver resident can qualify for $300-$500 off an e-bike. Low-income residents can qualify for $1,200-$1,400.
- What you need to apply: Proof of residency, proof of income eligibility (for low-income rebates), and an account at DenverClimateRebates.com.
- Where to buy: The voucher can only be redeemed at select local bike shops (don’t worry, there are plenty of options!). Here is a list of participating stores.
- Next round: The next chance to apply will be Tuesday, Nov. 28, at 11 a.m.
- More deets: Check out Denverite’s guide to Denver’s e-bike rebates.
Colorado’s Program
State officials followed Denver’s lead and launched a statewide rebate program (the largest in the country!) in August.
- How much: Unlike Denver’s program, only low- or moderate-income residents qualify for the state rebate. (See if you qualify.) Qualifying applicants can get $500-$1,100 off their purchase.
- What you need: At the time of application, all you need is an email address. If you’re selected, you’ll need to provide proof of residency and proof of income eligibility.
- Where to buy: Here is an expansive list of bike shops where you can redeem your voucher.
- Next round: The next chance to apply will be Monday, Oct. 9, at 10 a.m.
- More deets: Check out CPR’s guide to Colorado’s e-bike rebates.
Find the E-Bike for You
You have your voucher — yay! — so now what? Turns out, there are a lot of e-bike options out there: Pedal-assist or full throttle? Hub motor or mid-drive motor? Hydraulic brakes? Removable batteries? Where to start?? Don’t worry, Axios Denver has this handy dandy list of tips for finding your perfect e-bike fit.
Are These Programs Working?
Judging by Denver’s program, yes. According to reporting from Westword earlier this summer, Denver’s program had put nearly 6,000 e-bikes on city streets. Denver’s department of Climate Action, Sustainability, & Resiliency estimated the average e-bike voucher redeemer replaced 3.4 car trips weekly and that e-bikes from Denver’s program “displace 4.1 million vehicle miles, eliminate 1,447 tons of greenhouse gas emissions every year and save Denver residents $1 million in fuel and maintenance costs."
