Business bicycle use is becoming increasingly popular as part of sustainable business practices. In fact, companies are choosing business bicycle use because of cost benefits and environmental awareness. Moreover, it improves employee well-being. A good bicycle policy therefore helps you maximize the benefits. At the same time, you minimize safety risks. So this guide covers the most important practices for successful business cycling.
Why more and more companies are choosing business bike use
Companies choose business bicycle use first and foremost because it saves costs. In addition, it contributes to sustainability goals. Moreover, it improves employee well-being. Electric company bicycles in fact, offer a practical alternative for short business trips. Thus, they help avoid parking costs. At the same time, they reduce traffic congestion in cities.
The growth of business mobility by bicycle has several reasons. Financially, therefore, you save substantially on fuel costs. You also reduce parking fees and company car maintenance. A electric bicycle for business use namely, costs much less to purchase. Moreover, maintenance is cheaper than a company car.
"We see more and more companies switching to business bicycle use," says Thomas of STOER Bikes. "The belt drive of our bikes is a big advantage in this regard. After all, you hardly need any maintenance. So that saves you time and money."
Environmentally conscious operations with bicycles
Environmental awareness also plays a major role. After all, companies want to reduce their CO2 emissions. Cycling fits perfectly with sustainable business practices. Employees also appreciate it when their employer invests in environmentally friendly alternatives. So this strengthens your corporate image.
Incidentally, employee well-being improves noticeably with bicycle use. In fact, daily exercise increases energy. At the same time, it reduces absenteeism. Employees therefore often arrive at the office more alert and energetic. This happens especially after an outdoor bicycle ride.
Practical advantages are also important. After all, in busy cities, you can often get to your destination faster by bicycle. This is certainly true compared to the car. Parking is also easier and cheaper. So for short business appointments within the city, the bicycle is often the best choice. The Chamber of Commerce confirms these benefits, by the way.
How to establish a good cycling policy for your company
First, a good bicycle policy includes clear agreements on use and maintenance. In addition, it includes insurance and safety. Therefore, start by determining who may use the bicycles. Then determine for what purposes this is allowed. Also record the conditions under which this is done. In addition, note who is responsible for maintenance and repairs.
So start by defining the purpose of your cycling policy. Do you primarily want to save costs? Or do you want to promote sustainability? Maybe you mainly want to improve the well-being of employees. This helps to make concrete choices. This is how you create a policy that suits your company.
Next, determine the usage guidelines. Are employees allowed to use the bicycle privately? In addition, what distances are suitable for cycling? When is it better to choose other means of transportation? So set clear criteria. That way, everyone knows when the company bicycle is the best choice.
Arranging maintenance and insurance
Arrangements around maintenance are additionally important. Therefore, who takes care of regular checks and repairs? Where else can employees go in case of problems? Make arrangements for preventive maintenance. This will prevent problems. "Our CargoX cargo bike has a Gates CDX belt drive," explains Joeri. "As a result, you hardly need to do any maintenance. That therefore saves a huge amount of time."
Insurance coverage should not be forgotten in addition. So check whether company bikes are covered under your company insurance policy. In addition, consider additional coverage for theft or damage. This is especially true for expensive electric models. STOER Bikes offers special insurances with new value guarantee for three years. This does not include a deductible in case of theft, by the way.
Safety agreements are then indispensable. Therefore, establish mandatory equipment. Consider helmets and reflective clothing. In addition, provide guidelines for safe cycling in traffic. This is especially true in different weather conditions. The Central Government has clear guidelines for this, by the way.
In addition, document everything clearly. Next, make sure employees know the policy. So organize an information session if necessary. You do this when introducing company bicycles. That way you avoid misunderstandings.
What costs are associated with business bicycle use
First of all, company bikes cost between 1,000 and 4,000 euros per bike. This in fact depends on the type. In addition, there are annual costs for maintenance and insurance. You may also have to pay for storage. You calculate your return on investment by comparing these costs. You set them off against savings on fuel and parking. So you see the real cost benefits.
Moreover, purchase costs vary greatly by type of bicycle. A good electric bicycle for business use costs between 2,000 and 4,000 euros. The STOER UrbanX costs 3,199 euros, for example. Ordinary bikes, on the other hand, are much cheaper. However, they are less suitable for longer distances. They also make it more difficult to transport gear.
Annual maintenance costs are then about 200 to 400 euros per bike. Namely, this includes regular checkups and repairs. In addition, you pay for replacement of wearing parts. Electric bikes, by the way, have slightly higher maintenance costs. This is due to the technical components. Bicycles with belt drive however, have much lower costs. After all, they have no chain wear.
Insurance and tax benefits
Insurance premiums are also between 100 and 300 euros per year. This is because it depends on the value of the bicycle. The desired coverage also plays a role. Theft insurance is especially important in urban areas. So there the risk is higher.
To calculate the return, then compare the total bicycle cost to the savings. After all, a company car quickly costs 400 to 600 euros per month. This includes fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation. Parking costs in cities can also add up to 200 euros per month. So using a bicycle for business saves a lot of money.
The mobility budget bicycle concept is also becoming increasingly popular. In it, employees are given a budget. They can spend this on various means of transportation. Bicycles, of course, are among them. This therefore offers flexibility. At the same time, it stimulates cost awareness.
Tax breaks then make company bikes even more attractive. This is because the additional tax rate for electric bicycles is much lower than for company cars. So check the current regulations with your accountant. You also benefit from VAT deduction. You can also make use of the small-scale investment deduction. Electric cargo bikes are even subject to the MIA. This therefore gives 36% additional deduction. RFO.com by the way, has an overview of all schemes.
What are the main safety measures
Cycling safely at work requires, first of all, proper equipment. In addition, you need regular maintenance. Awareness of traffic hazards is also important. Therefore, provide helmets and reflective clothing. In addition, check that lighting is working properly. Next, train employees in traffic awareness. So also set clear guidelines. This applies especially to cycling in bad weather.
In fact, the right equipment is the basis of safe business cycling. A good helmet is therefore indispensable. This is true even though it is not required by law in the Netherlands. Reflective clothing also ensures better visibility. This is especially true during the dark months. So you remain highly visible in traffic.
Next, regularly check the technical condition of the bikes. After all, brakes, lights and tires must be in perfect condition. Therefore, schedule monthly checks. In addition, make sure that repairs are made quickly in case of problems. So the bikes remain safe to use. "Our bikes have Tektro hydraulic brakes," Thomas explains. "These are therefore very reliable. So that gives extra safety."
Traffic awareness and weather conditions
Traffic awareness is additionally important for safety. Therefore, train employees in defensive cycling. Moreover, teach them to recognize dangerous traffic situations. So discuss specific risks in your work area. Think about busy intersections. Dangerous road sections also deserve attention. So prepare your employees well.
Weather conditions then call for appropriate guidelines. In fact, when it is slippery, cycling can be too dangerous. You also have to be careful in storms or very poor visibility. Therefore, give employees freedom. They may choose alternative transportation in such cases. This thus prevents accidents.
Emergency procedures must also be clear. After all, what should an employee do in the event of an accident? What do you do in the event of a breakdown on the road? Therefore, provide clear contact information. Also make arrangements for emergency assistance. So everyone knows what to do.
Liability issues additionally deserve attention. After all, if employees have an accident during working hours, there may be consequences. This then concerns your company insurance. Therefore, discuss this with your insurer. Adjust your coverage if necessary. So you are well insured.
How to motivate employees for business bicycle use
Motivating employees for business bicycle use starts first with a good introduction. Therefore, demonstrate the benefits: no traffic jams and free exercise. Also emphasize environmental friendliness. Next, organize a trial period. This allows employees to test different routes. Moreover, share success stories of colleagues. In addition, consider small incentives. Think of a bicycle allowance. Extra time off also has a motivating effect.
So start with an enthusiastic presentation. In doing so, demonstrate the benefits of business bicycle use. Employees arrive at work fitter and more alert. They also save time by avoiding traffic jams. They are also more flexible in their travel. So these benefits speak for themselves.
Then organize a test period. In this, employees can try different bikes. So let them try different routes as well. This is because this way they discover what suits them best. This therefore increases the likelihood that they will continue cycling. At STOER Bikes, you can schedule a test ride. So that's how you experience the benefits for yourself.
Success stories and incentives
In addition, share success stories regularly. So tell how colleagues experience business cycling. After all, this inspires others to start too. In addition, create an internal platform. There employees can share experiences. Exchanging tips also has a motivating effect.
Next, consider small incentives. For example, a per-kilometer bicycle allowance works well. Extra time off for those who cycle regularly also helps. In addition, organize cycling challenges. This way you make business cycling fun. This keeps employees motivated.
In addition, make sure there are good facilities at the work location. Namely, this means covered bicycle parking. Charging facilities for electric bikes are also important. In addition, consider showers and locker rooms. So employees can freshen up. So this makes business cycling much more attractive.
Business cycling with STOER Bikes
STOER Bikes has been helping companies with innovative bicycle solutions for business bicycle use since 2022. Our UrbanX, CityX and CargoX are therefore specially designed for intensive business use. All models also have a Gates CDX belt drive. This is because it is maintenance-free and lasts for years. This saves time and money.
Next, the UrbanX and CityX are perfect for commuting. After all, with a range of 80-100 km you will get anywhere. The powerful Bafang motor also provides sufficient support. So even in headwinds or uphill you cycle comfortably. The CargoX cargo bike also won the German Design Award 2025. It therefore transports up to 150 kg of cargo. This therefore makes it ideal for business logistics.
All STOER models also have thick fatbike tires. This is because these do not get stuck in streetcar rails. By the way, this is an important safety aspect in cities. The tires also provide more comfort. Especially on cobblestones and bumpy roads you will notice the difference. Workers therefore arrive at their destination relaxed.
"We design bikes specifically for business use," Thomas explains. "That's why they can withstand intensive daily use. Our dealers Moreover, we help companies with the right bike fleet. So we think about maintenance and insurance. We also help with administration. So that's how to make business bicycle use as easy as possible."
Conclusion: successful business bicycle use in 2025
Business cycling thus offers many benefits if you adopt the right practices. A well-thought-out bicycle policy is therefore the basis. Realistic costing also helps with the decision. Focus on safety is also indispensable. Thus, corporate bicycles make a valuable addition to your mobility offering.
After all, the benefits are clear: cost savings, sustainability and healthier employees. Moreover, you improve your corporate image. Therefore, by investing in business cycling, you show that you are thinking ahead. You are preparing your company for a sustainable future.
At STOER Bikes, we therefore help companies with innovative bicycle solutions. After all, these fit perfectly with modern business mobility. Check out our blog for more information. So there you will find more about business cycling and e-bikes. That's how you stay up to date with the latest developments.
Frequently asked questions about business bicycle use
How long does it take for company bikes to pay for themselves?
On average, company bikes pay for themselves within 12 to 18 months. This is because it depends on the usage pattern. With intensive use for short business trips, the payback period may even be shorter. Therefore, calculate how much you will save on fuel and parking costs. Wear and tear of company cars also counts. This is how you determine your own payback period.
What happens when an employee leaves - may they take the company bike with them
No, company bikes remain the property of the company. Therefore, include in your employment contract that bikes must be returned upon departure. Your bicycle policy should also state this. However, you can agree on a possible takeover option. This is done at residual value. In addition, always have a clear inventory list. That way you keep track of who has which bike.
Can employees use company bikes on weekends?
First, this depends on your company policy. Many companies allow private use. In fact, this increases valuation and use. However, you must consider the tax consequences. Private use can mean additional taxes. So consult with your accountant. That way you can choose the best arrangement for your situation.
How to deal with theft of company bikes
First of all, take out a good theft insurance policy. In addition, establish clear rules about the use of locks. After all, employees should always use an approved lock. Moreover, they must park their bikes in safe places. Theft must be reported immediately. You must then also inform the insurance company. Therefore, consider GPS tracking for expensive electric models. This increases the chances of being found.
Which electric bike is best for business use
First of all, choose an electric bike with at least 80 km of range. A sturdy carrier is also important. Good lighting is also essential. The STOER UrbanX for example, has a range of 80-100 km. Moreover, it has a Gates CDX belt drive. In fact, it requires hardly any maintenance. Furthermore, pay attention to service warranty and parts availability. Thus, you are always assured of service.
How do you motivate employees to actually use the company bike?
First, start with an enthusiastic introduction. Therefore, show the benefits: no traffic jams and free exercise. Environmental friendliness also appeals. Next, organize a trial period. This allows employees to test different routes. Moreover, share success stories of colleagues. In addition, consider small incentives. Consider small incentives, such as a bicycle allowance. Extra time off for those who cycle regularly is also motivating.
What are the most common mistakes when creating a cycling policy?
First of all, many companies forget to establish maintenance procedures. This is because bikes deteriorate quickly as a result. Also, insurance coverage is often underestimated. Therefore, this can lead to problems. Other mistakes include: no clear usage guidelines and unrealistic expectations about distances. Not involving employees in the choice is also common. Therefore, test your policy first with a small group. Then implement it company-wide. So you will avoid many problems.