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It\u2019s a programme that\u2019s had a profound change on urban bike use \u2013 and might change cycling in Ireland as a whole<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n We talk about it a lot. Other cyclists talk about it a lot. Your employer (or employees), your local politicians, and plenty more besides, too; chances are you\u2019ve heard a lot about the Cycle to Work Scheme.<\/p>\n It\u2019s an amazing way to get on the saddle, and save some cash in the process. So what is it, how does it work, and what are the need-to-knows? We\u2019ve got the skinny right here\u2026<\/p>\n WHAT IS IT?<\/strong><\/p>\n The Cycle to Work scheme is a government incentive which aims to use tax incentives to encourage people to use pedal power to and from work. Under the scheme, employers pay for bikes and equipment on behalf of their employees, with the sum repaid through deductions from your monthly paycheck.<\/p>\n The key is that the repayments are not subject to tax, PRSI or USC \u2013 meaning you could save a bundle as well as avoiding the significant hit of buying a bike in one go.<\/p>\n The scheme covers the purchase of bicycles and equipment up to the value of \u20ac1,000, and you can avail of the scheme once in a five year period.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n WHAT DOES IT COVER?<\/strong><\/p>\n Needless to say, the biggest expense involved will be your bike \u2013 and that obviously falls within the remit of the scheme. So too, though, does equipment you\u2019ll need along the way, including:<\/p>\n Cycle helmets which conform to European standard EN 1078<\/p>\n