Biking for good

We’re delighted to announce the launch of our NEW venture, 
The Big Issue ebikes from the founders of The Big Issue in partnership with ShareBike.

Biking for good

We’re delighted to announce the launch of our NEW venture, The Big Issue ebikes from the founders of The Big Issue in partnership with ShareBike.

Biking for good

We’re delighted to announce the launch of our NEW venture, The Big Issue eBikes from the founders of The Big Issue in partnership with ShareBike.

We are biking for good. Our new eBike scheme is the first of its kind and will be launching in communities across the UK soon. The reason they’re so good?

Why are we different
We recruit and retrain people who were previously unemployed and support them back into work to run the schemes.
How we do it
Our employees are paid a living wage and supported with access to services and support to improve their lives.
Big Issue eBikes
By renting an eBike from The Big Issue not only are you doing good for others, you are doing good for the environment too.
For local councils and business owners
Contact us to find out how you can bring Big Issue eBikes to the heart of your community
FIND OUT MORE
For cyclists
Register to hear more about the latest schemes coming to a community near you
PRE-REGISTER HERE

For local councils and business owners

Contact us to find out how you can bring the ebikes to your community
FIND OUT MORE

For cyclists

Register to hear more about the latest schemes coming to a community near you
PRE-REGISTER HERE
For local councils and business owners
Contact us to find out how you can bring the ebikes to your community
FIND OUT MORE
For cyclists
Register to hear more about the latest schemes coming to a community near you
PRE-REGISTER HERE
COVID-19 Pandemic
Communities across the UK are struggling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and we’re doing our bit to help the UK build back better. As we get ready for launch, please be assured we will follow all government guidance for your safety.

And as a special thank you, when we come to your community, we will ensure that everyone who signs up gets 1 months of Big Issue eBiking completely free of charge

Do you want your city to be the first to benefit from the roll-out of Big Issue eBikes and create new jobs for vulnerable people in your area?

Then fill out this from to register your interest. And then get your friends to register. And their friends too!

The area with the most sign-ups by New Year will then be number one on our list of launch priorities. And as a special thank you we will ensure that everyone who signs up gets 1 months of Big Issue eBiking completely FOC!

And as a special thank you, when we come to your community, we will ensure that everyone who signs up gets 1 months of Big Issue eBiking completely free of charge*

Do you want your city to be the first to benefit from the roll-out of Big Issue eBikes and create new jobs for vulnerable people in your area?

Then fill out this from to register your interest. And then get your friends to register. And their friends too!

The area with the most sign-ups by New Year will then be number one on our list of launch priorities. And as a special thank you we will ensure that everyone who signs up gets 1 months of Big Issue eBiking completely FOC!*

How will it work when we launch?

1. Download app

Download app (will be relased later - stay put and register now for a free* month).

2. Register

You can unlock any unused eBike with the app. Our clear pricing scheme will show you the costs, but remember. If you subscribe now* the initial period is free*. You can then get on your bike and enjoy the pedal assist giving you up to 15.5mph (making hills that little bit more fun to climb!).

3. Find the bikes in the map

Find the eBikes in the map - or let the app find it for you, and check if the bike is good to go.

4. Scan the QR code

Scan the QR code. This will release the internal lock, and the motor will be engaged.

5. Enjoy the ride

Enjoy the ride - use the eBike as long as you like, but be aware of the payment plan and cost involved. In case you forget - there is a maximum fee per day.

6. Return the bike

Return the eBike in a location adviced by the app. You can then use the app to lock the eBike and complete your rental.

7. Verify the drop-off if needed

Post us through the app with pictures or text for any observation, issue or just to tell us you liked it!

For Councils

At Big Issue eBikes we understand that many councils are unable to fund tenders for cycle schemes.

But because our schemes are funded by subscription and advertising revenues, we can literally drop a fleet into any city regardless of tender while still working with local councils to meet their environmental objectives. 

To find out more - contact us!
I WANT TO KNOW MORE!

Promote your brand!

Big Issue eBikes offer an unique opportunity to promote your brand or organisation while delivering social good.

We can tailor a package for you based on a specific city or across the UK.
FIND OUT MORE

FAQ

Search below answers to our popular questions

1. What is new with this system?

Being electrical and not bound to docking stations, our systems offers dynamic distribution and takes up a minimum amount of space in the street. The battery capacity is more than enough for any travel distance within the city. Besides the comfort and fantastic user experience of electrical bikes, our most special feature is that of social inclusion. We involve and create jobs for the vulnerable and have a true social impact on society!

By registering, you will not only be choosing healthy and fun transport, but you will also be biking for good.

2. Why have The Big Issue and ShareBike joined forces to create this scheme?

The Big Issue is already fighting the housing and unemployment crisis through the Ride Out Recession Alliance (RORA), bringing together innovative ideas and experts to help keep people in work and in their homes during the recession. The new scheme will form part of RORA’s activities to support and re-train people to find new employment pathways in green and ethical industries.

Both organisations will be calling on councils and local businesses to take up the scheme in order to provide ethical and sustainable ways for people to travel and support unemployed or vulnerable people back into skilled work.

We will recruit and retrain people who were previously unemployed and support them back into work to run the schemes. The Big Issue eBikes’ employees will be paid a living wage and supported with access to services and support to improve their lives. It will also improve the environmental credentials of many towns and cities across the UK, encouraging people to cycle, rather than drive.

3. What are plans for expansion across the UK?

The Big Issue eBikes scheme aims to launch the first two fleets in the UK in Q1 2021.

4. I work for a council/am an employer interested in the scheme, how do I find out more?

Councils or employers interested in the scheme can post their interest on this website to find out how they can set up bikes in their local community.

5. When do bicycles arrive in my community?

Our ambition is to roll out nationwide, but obviously we will need to monitor the development within micro mobility and adjust to that. You may influence our roll out by registering now (see “register now” button on top of the web site) for your area to be one of the first launches.

6. What will it cost to rent BigIssue eBikes?

Prices will be announced soon and will be favourable compared to other public transport. We will offer both day passes and longer-term subscriptions so that both visitors and commuters can find the payment plan that applies to their needs. Prices will be the same across the UK.

7. Why do you not use docking stations?

By not being based on docking stations we can provide dynamic distribution and see many advantages with that such as better availability, less use of street space and faster roll out.

8. Will dock-less systems cause unwanted parking?

This has been a problem for so-called "free-float" systems where bikes have piled up. Our system is not a free-floating system but uses advanced technology to ensure proper parking and will make it economically inconvenient to park outside given areas. In addition, we will also have our balancing crew looking after our bicycles every day to avoid irregularities.

9. Are the bikes heavy, are they comfortable to ride?

BigIssue eBikes are quality bikes that are built to last whilst giving the user a comfortable experience. The bikes weigh slightly more than a regular bike, but the fact that it is electric will make the user feel that it is much lighter to use.

10. What is the advantage of an electric bike compared to a regular one?

The biggest difference between pedal assist or electric bikes and normal bikes is the length of an average trip. Commonly, an electric sharing bike ride measures 3 miles which is substantially more than normal bike rides. Needless to say, eBikes make uphill biking a breeze and ultimately will make it more attractive to choose the bike over the car!

11. What about COVID19?

Biking makes it much easier to keep social distance compared to sitting on a bus or train. However, as with all types of public transport it is your responsibility to protect yourself and follow any current recommended guidelines related to Covid-19 when using the bikes.

12. Should I wear a helmet?

We encourage users to put their health and safety first and wear a helmet when renting.

13. How fast do the bikes go?

This is regulated by law and the motor will assist you up to a speed of 15.5 miles/hour.

14. Can I use my Oyster card to pay?

Unfortunately, the system currently does not support the Oyster card.

15. When and how do I register?

You can register right away by clicking the button “Register now” on the top of this website. By registering now, you will increase the chances of your community becoming one of the first to host a system. As a special bonus, early registration will be rewarded with one month free subscription when we come to your area.

You can also sign up when our app is released. Please keep an eye on this website for more information.

16. Do you also offer electric kick bikes?

No, we do not.

17. What will be the user interface to the schemes?

Users will be able to access, register, pay and communicate through an app. The app will provide all the information needed about the system and how to use it!

18. I have more questions - where do I ask them?

You can ask us any other question by emailing us – please email to post@bigissue.bike.

And you can park where you want without thinking about expensive parking or congestion charges.

62% of all car trips in the UK are less than 3 miles long. This is a distance you can cover on an electric bike in less than a quarter of an hour. And you can park where you want without thinking about an expensive parking or congestion in traffic. Good access to electric bicycles can change the way we travel and create a cleaner climate, less traffic and a more pleasant city centre.
If you subscribe, such short trips are included in the subscription and is also a lot cheaper than the bus – or indeed your car.
Your information will not be shared and is safe with us. We will store your information according to GDPR meaning you can email us at any time and demand your details permanently erased.
Preregister and create a more vibrant neighbourhood!
PRE-REGISTER HERE

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Want to know more about The Big Issue and Sharebike?

You can read all about us on our offical website!
*DISCLAIMER
If you register now, we will give you a full month subscription for free. Be aware that this only includes the initial free rent that is included in the subscription, and not unlimited use. To rent the bike after the initial free period will add a fee per minute in addition to the subscription fee. The length of the initial free rent will be announced as part of the pricing scheme soon.
© 2020 BigIssueSharebike
Biking for good – we make it a reality now!