Promote use of electric bicycles

As the lockdown is eased the resumption of public transport is likely to be difficult due to social distancing requirements. Limited public transport capacity risks leading to increased motor vehicle use and potential gridlock. There has been a marked increase in the use of cycles but for many commuting distance doesn't make cycling an attractive or viable option. Electrically powered bicycles are a potential solution. They take the strain out of cycling, allow social distancing and are green. However, they are not cheap and are limited to a legal speed limit of 15mph. First I recommend the Scottish government should promote cycling and support the expansion in the use of electric bikes by lobbying for or introducing a subsidy for these machines. Second, ideally, the top legal speed limit should be increased a little so that the commuting time for a journey by bike becomes competitive to that of a journey made by car. Please note - I have no involvement / commercial interest in any bicycle product or business but I am a conventional cyclist!

Why the contribution is important

As above.

by arniearnstein on May 09, 2020 at 11:40AM

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Average rating: 3.8
Based on: 12 votes

Comments

  • Posted by SteveR57 May 09, 2020 at 11:53

    A good idea. The challenge is to reduce tax on them to allow a lower price. I have thought abought about getting one before. We live in a hilly country so these would a great help and allow more people to get outside

  • Posted by JSAvoch May 11, 2020 at 18:57

    I loved the first part of this idea. We live 12 mies from the nearest town and don't own a car. Our electric bikes do more miles per year than the average car! The majority of journeys in Scotland could be made by electric bike (and trailer if necessary).

    However, as much as I would like some extra speed from time to time, 15.5mph is enough for a vehicle with no test required and no compulsory protective equipment.
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