As Europe pushes towards greener cities and carbon neutrality, electric bikes are becoming a central part of the urban mobility revolution. With growing government support and eco-focused initiatives, getting an e-bike—possibly for free—is more attainable than ever.
If you're in Europe and wondering how to get a free e-bike, this guide will walk you through the real ways to make it happen, including government subsidies, municipal trials, nonprofit initiatives, and creative alternatives.
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National and Local E-Bike Subsidy Programs
Across Europe, many countries are offering public subsidies and tax incentives to promote the use of e-bikes. While most programs offer partial reimbursements, some local governments provide vouchers that can fully cover the cost—especially for low-income individuals.
France
France has one of the most generous national e-bike schemes:
- Bonus Vélo à Assistance Électrique: Eligible citizens can receive up to €400–€2,000, depending on income level and disability status.
- In Paris and other major cities, additional municipal grants may cover up to 50–100% of the e-bike price.
Germany
The German government supports e-bike adoption through company bike leasing programs and regional grants.
Cities like Berlin and Munich have launched pilot programs offering free e-bike use for daily commuting.
Tip: In Germany, check with your Landesbank, municipal website, or Verkehrsverbund (local transit association) for current offers.
Belgium
Some Belgian cities like Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp offer up to €500 in rebates for electric bikes.
Several bike-sharing programs are also offering free monthly passes or loan schemes for e-bikes.
Austria
The Austrian government offers up to €600 per e-bike, and even more for cargo e-bikes.
Some cities provide 100% rebates if you're replacing a car trip with an electric bicycle.
Try E-Bike Loan or Rental Programs (For Free!)
Instead of outright buying, many European cities run free loan or long-term rental programs for e-bikes. These are designed to help residents try sustainable commuting without upfront costs.
Examples:
- Barcelona's BiciElèctrica: Offers free e-bike trials for 3–6 months to commuters.
- Rome's "E-Bike to Work" Pilot: Provides free e bikes leasing for employees in selected areas.
- London's Peddle My Wheels Try Before You Buy: While not 100% free, many councils subsidize 100% of the first 3 months.
🔍 Search local council or mobility agency websites using phrases like "e-bike trial programme [your city]" or "e-bike test project Europe."
Nonprofit and Community Initiatives
Several nonprofits and community groups across Europe aim to make e-bikes accessible for all—especially low-income families, students, or migrants.
Examples:
- Cycling Without Age (Denmark & beyond): Offers free e-trishaw rides to seniors, and in some cases, volunteers can use bikes for personal use.
- Bike for Refugees (UK & Germany): Provides donated e-bikes to asylum seekers and newcomers.
- Local Makerspaces and Bike Kitchens: In cities like Vienna, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam, you can sometimes volunteer in exchange for a refurbished e-bike, or participate in bike donation schemes.
Free E-Bike Programs & Brand Promotions
Beyond public incentives, manufacturers and retailers run seasonal giveaways, holiday deals, and loyalty programs that can deliver an e-bike at zero net cost—if you know where to look.
A. Manufacturer & Retailer Giveaways
Social Media Contests:
Top brands like Bosch-equipped Cube or Raleigh often run Instagram or Facebook contests during summer/new model launches. Prizes can include a free mid-range e-bike worth €1,500+.
In addition to the competition, of course you can also pay attention to whether there is a simple lottery to have a chance to win a free electric bike. For example, ENGWE held a "Boost Power. Got Your Back!" event in June. Just register your email address and you will have a chance to win one of 15 electric bikes for free, and a chance to win a 7-day trip to China with food and accommodation! The event will end on June 30th, so grab the opportunity!
Newsletter Sign-Ups:
Sign up on major e-bike retailer sites; you may get a welcome code for 5–10% off.
Referral Programs:
Many direct-to-consumer e-bike companies give existing customers a €100–€200 voucher for each friend who buys. Accumulate vouchers to offset your own purchase entirely.
B. Holiday & Seasonal Discounts
Black Friday & Cyber Week (November)
Deep discounts (20–40% off) appear on last year's model. Combined with referral or loyalty vouchers, your final cost can approach zero.
End-of-Season Clearances (October–November)
Retailers often unload inventory with markdowns up to 50%. Watch for local shop blow-outs.
Spring Commuter Push (March–May)
Some governments or employers time incentives with “Bike to Work” Week. You might see bonus top-up grants or retailer “spring sale” codes.
C. Loyalty & Trade-In Deals
Trade-In Events
Certain national chains (e.g., Halfords UK, Decathlon France, or Derby Cycle in Germany) offer trade-in credits up to €300 when you swap an old bike—even a mechanical one.
Membership Clubs
Sign up for cycling federation memberships (e.g., ADFC in Germany, RACC in Catalonia). Members occasionally receive exclusive vouchers or partner discounts on e-bikes. Of course, you can also choose ENGWE's membership club. You only need to complete the relevant information such as email registration, follow the social media platform to participate in cycling sharing activities, and you can redeem points and have the opportunity to make your purchase cheaper!
Final Thoughts
Although a truly free e-bike purchase is uncommon, savvy cyclists in Europe can leverage a mix of government subsidies, employer leasing schemes, charitable loans, and brand promotions to secure a free electric bicycle at little to no net cost.
By stacking incentives, timing your purchase around key sale periods, and tapping into community or employer programs, you can transform an otherwise expensive investment into an affordable—or even free—ride. Ready to power your commute or explore new trails without breaking the bank?
You may also want to read:
The Lightest Electric Bike: A 2025 Guide
How Long Do E-Bike Batteries Last? A Complete Guide
Complete Guide to Boost Mode on ENGWE Electric Bicycles