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Get your bike tax free with the cycle to work scheme
Simply put:
- Workers in the high bracket save 52%
- Workers in the lower bracket save 31%
How do you buy a bike on the scheme?
It's super easy!
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Email / have a chat with us about which bike would best suit your application and get sized up
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Once you decide on a bike we will give you an invoice for the bike and accessories
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Hand the invoice into your employer
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Once we have received payment you can come and collect your new bike!
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Over the coming year your employer will deduct the cost from your gross wage over an agreed period of time
How much can I save? Use our calculator below to get an idea of the savings. *The numbers below are a guide to your possible savings under the Cycle to Work scheme. As everyone's tax circumstances are different, your actual savings may differ.
🚲 Irish Bike to Work Calculator (2025)
FAQS
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the cycle to work scheme for both employers and employees.
Can anyone avail of the bike-to-work scheme?
The bike to work scheme is aimed at employees under Irish tax system. You must be an employee (pay PRSI PAYE) or a director of a company in order to avail of the tax discount.
I’m a sole trader/company owner, can I use this scheme?
Only employees who pay PAYE PRSI can use this scheme, but if you are a company director and pay yourself from a business account you can avail of the scheme. If you are self-employed, and using the bike as part of your business and pay VAT, you can reclaim the paid VAT on the bicycle yourself.
How much can I spend?
The scheme covers up to €1250 for a new bike/accessories every 4 years, or up to €1500 for a new electric bike/accessories every 4 years, or up to €3000 for a cargo bike. If you want to spend more than what the scheme covers, you will pay the balance yourself.
What accessories can I get?
Cycle helmets
Bells and bulb horns
Lights, including dynamo packs
Mirrors and mudguards
Cycle clips and dress guards
Panniers, luggage carriers and straps
Locks and chains
Pumps, puncture repair kits, cycle tool kits and tyre sealant
Reflective clothing along with white front reflectors and spoke reflectors
Does my employer have to avail of the cycle to work scheme?
No, it is the employers choice whether or not they avail of this scheme.
1. What is a cargo bike?
A cargo bike is a versatile bicycle designed to carry heavy loads, passengers, or large items. From kids and pets to groceries and business deliveries, it can handle everyday transport needs that might otherwise require a car or van.
2. How much do cargo bikes cost?
Prices vary by model and features. Our cargo bikes start around €3,500, while high‑spec models can cost €5,000–€6,000 or more. Accessories like child seats, cushions, covers, and racks are extra. Most people can save 40–50 % on the purchase price through the Cycle to Work Scheme, which allows employees to buy a bike tax‑free through their employer, making it much more affordable upfront.
3. What about maintenance costs?
Maintenance is similar to a regular bike. As a rough guide, budgeting around €200 per year for routine servicing is reasonable. Rothar also offers full workshop support — from annual service checks to more involved repairs. See Rothar service partners.
4. How heavy are cargo bikes, and can I ride one easily?
They are heavier than a standard bike, especially when loaded. Electric‑assist models make this effortless. With a bit of practice, most people find cargo bikes easy and stable to ride, even in urban traffic.
5. Do I need a cargo bike?
Yes! A cargo bike can genuinely replace a car for many everyday journeys. They’re incredibly versatile: perfect for school runs, shopping trips, business errands, and local outings. Whether you’re carrying children, pets, groceries, or equipment, a cargo bike can handle it — often more efficiently than a car in town. You can try one in store to see how it fits your life before you buy.
6. Can I test a cargo bike before buying?
Absolutely! You can drop into Rothar to try any demo bike in stock. Just let them know your preferred configuration — such as child seats, cushions, or the number and age of passengers — and we’ll prepare it for you. Or simply drop in, and they’ll have a bike ready when you arrive. No pressure, just try it at your own pace.
7. I don’t live in Dublin — can you deliver a bike to me?
Yes! Rothar offers nationwide delivery of fully assembled cargo bikes across Ireland. Delivery to County Dublin is a flat €50 fee, and delivery to the rest of the country is a flat €90 fee (fully assembled to your door). You just need to provide your Eircode when ordering. More on delivery.
8. Do you have service partners for maintenance outside Dublin?
Yes — Rothar work with a network of experienced service partners around Ireland. These include workshops in Galway (Pedalmor), Cork & Beara Peninsula (Bicycle Solutions Ireland), and Waterford (Altitude). Rothar themselves also service bikes they’ve sold and are specialists with Shimano and Bosch e‑bike systems.
9. Are cargo bikes safe?
Yes. Cargo bikes are built for stability and load distribution. Using accessories like child seats and seat belts enhances safety. Rothar staff can walk you through these features when you test bikes, and give tips on riding safely with passengers.
10. Do cargo bikes work for long distances?
Electric‑assist models make longer journeys much easier and more enjoyable. Non‑electric cargo bikes are great for short to medium trips, especially in towns and cities, and many people use them for commuting, errands, or local outings.
