Better Business / Member news
Big Issue e-bikes joins the Better Business network
You may have seen them around Bristol already, dotted between rows of vois – currently their popular rival.
However the new e-Bikes have seen a quick uptake by Bristol residents – the city currently has around 500 BigIssue e-Bikes in circulation.
The new scheme champions a mantra of ‘biking for good’ by providing sustainable and affordable electric cycling in the city – whilst also creating job opportunities and training for unemployed people.
Bristol is the first city in the UK to offer the scheme, which initially launched in February. It aims to encourage and enable more people to leave their cars at home and cycle in the city, reducing traffic congestion and supporting a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
BigIssue e-Bikes are faster than cars and normal bicycles – photo: Allistair, Big Issue
In less than 15 minutes, the e-Bike can take you safely and sustainably around three miles – quicker than travelling by car or on a regular bike in the city. Plus, the basket makes it easy for you to store your groceries or bag.
The BigIssue e-Bikes are also helping to create opportunities to support long-term unemployed and vulnerable people back into work, with 10 people currently employed at the company’s hub in Brislington. This number is only set to rise as the scheme rolls out heading into the warmer months.
Explore Bristol sustainably with the e-Bike – photo: Iiris Celine, Big Issue
Currently the 500 e-Bikes in circulation are focused on more central and higher demand areas however with increased uptake, the company hopes to widen its geographical range.
To rent one, users have two options depending on how often they plan to use them.
The first is a £19.95 monthly subscription for unlimited rides up to 10 minutes per ride, then the rider is charged at 20p/minute up to a maximum cap of £12/day. The subscription can be cancelled at any time.
The second is a pay-as-you-go option, which requires a £10 deposit and 50p to get started- the rider is then charged at 20p per minute up to a maximum of £12 per day.
There is also a BigIssue e-Bike app to help get you started and find your nearest e-Bike.
So get cycling around Bristol and explore everything it has to offer, whether it’s to Clifton Suspension Bridge to watch the gorgeous spring sunsets, or to the bustling Harbourside to visit its galleries and museums.
To find out more go to www.bigissue.bike
Main photo: Iiris Celine, Big Issue
Read more: Test riding the new Big Issue eBikes
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