Investing in a Bike

We’ve recently been considering the various elements of sustainability that we can implement in our day to day lives, in addition to investing our money in sustainable funds, read more here.

Sustainable investments can be small as well as large, and small incremental changes to our habits and lifestyles can have a significant impact. For example, investing in a bicycle.

Whether you’re able to replace your daily car commute with biking or you’re taking up biking as a hobby, the cost, health, and sustainability advantages are multiple:

• Reduced carbon emissions
• Energy efficiency
• Reduced dependence on fossil fuels
• Reduced air pollution
• Reduced traffic congestion
• Encourages physical activity
• More cost-effective mode of transportation

When choosing a bike, there are a few things to consider. Here are some tips to help you with your purchase:

• Determine your budget. Bikes can range from a few hundred euros to several thousand, so it’s important to know how much you can spend before you start shopping.
• Decide what type of bike you need. Different bikes are designed for different purposes, such as road biking, mountain biking, commuting, and more. Consider what type of riding you plan to do and choose a bike that is best suited for that activity.
• Research bike brands and models. There are many different brands and models of bikes available, and each has its own unique features and benefits. Read reviews, compare specifications, and test ride different bikes to help you make an informed decision.
• Visit bike shops. Take the time to visit a few different shops and talk to the sales staff to get advice on which bikes might be best for you. There are many independent bike shops in Ireland that offer a wide range of bikes for sale and have great knowledgeable staff. Check out places like Rothar and The Bikerack that also have workshop & repair services onsite.
• Check for discounts. Some bike shops offer seasonal sales or discounts on older models, so be sure to ask about any available discounts when you’re shopping.
• Consider second-hand options. Buying a used bike can be a cost-effective way to get a good quality bike. Check online classifieds websites such as DoneDeal and Adverts, as well as local bike shops, for second-hand bike options. Old but new-to-you bikes are also a more sustainable option.
• Consider borrowing a friend’s bike. If you’re not ready to make the investment in a bike you could borrow or rent a bike to see how it suits you.
• Remember to also budget for accessories such as a helmet, lights, and locks, as well as ongoing maintenance costs like tire replacements and tune-ups.
• The Bike to Work Scheme in Ireland is a government initiative that aims to encourage more people to cycle to work. The scheme provides tax incentives for employees to purchase a bicycle and related equipment for commuting to work. Under the scheme, the cost of a bicycle and related equipment, up to a certain limit, can be taken out of an employee’s pre-tax salary, reducing their taxable income.
• Maintenance – look after your bike with regular maintenance checks. You can learn online through YouTube videos or by taking an in person short bike maintenance course. The better care you take of your bike, the longer it will last and become more sustainable.