The system, in case you’re not aware, encourages employees to cycle to and from work by availing of certain tax breaks which means you get a bike at a greatly reduced price.
Under the scheme, employers can pay for bikes and associated equipment for their employees (up to €1,000) and the employee pays back through a salary sacrifice arrangement of up to 12 months.
The employee is not liable for tax, PRSI or USC on their repayments.
So, if you are totally bamboozled about what bike to buy, take a look at our three recommendations. While these bikes aren’t exactly your typical commuting models, they are three machines you can get by taking advantage of the scheme…
The Giant Defy 4 – €750
This is one of the best entry level road bikes on the market at around €750.
For that price you get a light, smooth and sturdy machine that’s perfect for entry level racing and touring, though it’s perhaps too nice a bike to use for commuting.
It looks the part as well so you’ll definitely be taking a risk if you plan on chaining this baby to a gate.
It’s made of aluminium and is intended for those who like to spend long hours in the saddle.
The carbon fork keeps the weight down and also makes the ride that bit smoother.
The standard model has a gearing system that is aimed towards those who will do some sportives, leisure rides but also tackle some big mountains.
The 50/34 chainrings on the front and 11/32 on the back are perfect for this.
You cannot go wrong with this if looking for a first bike.
Cube Attain 2016 Race – €999
This is slightly more expensive and comes in just under €1,000 but it is a step above the Giant.
It’s geared more towards the casual racer who also enjoys long miles.
Definitely not a commuting bike, the Cube Attain is easy on the eye with black, white and red being the dominant colours of its flagship product.
The gearing is the same as the above – but of course can be changed while little touches like internal cable routing and a slightly deeper set of wheels make it look super slick.
The components are Shimano so you’re guaranteed a quality product.
Just be careful of the sizing when buying, however, as Cube do 50c, 53cm, 56cm, 58cm, 60cm and 62cm.
Many people use a 54cm – so slight alterations might be required.
Trek Emonda ALR4 – €990 (approx.)
This is an absolute gem of a machine which is geared towards those who love the climbs.
Weighing a shade under eight kilos it’s one of – if not the, lightest bike for under €1,000.
That is an incredible feat given there’s an aluminium frame and a carbon fork but the big weight saver here are the wheels – usually Bontrager.
The components are all Shimano, the design is simple but cool and quite retro even.
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