The municipality of Merchtem is investing €400,000 in lease bikes!

Why did your municipality choose bike leasing for its employees?

"Like all municipalities, we want to reduce our Co2 emissions. We tried to establish a wind farm, but that hasn't been successful yet. We have, however, already equipped all our public buildings and sports fields with LED lighting.

With our municipality, we are also focusing on more sustainable mobility. We notice that mobility remains a big question mark for many local authorities. That is why our municipality chose to provide a budget to offer lease bikes to the staff of Merchtem . We want to get our employees on bikes instead of in cars."

Why did you choose Cyclobility as your bike leasing partner?

"When we were looking for a bike leasing partner, we tested all kinds of bikes from various leasing companies. I remember it well: all the test bikes were parked here in the garage. Everyone was unanimously in agreement about the quality of Cyclobility's bikes. They stood head and shoulders above the rest..."

What is your vision for sustainable mobility?

"We cannot ignore it: sustainability is vital. Almost everyone who works here lives in the region. They don't have to travel far, and yet, too many people still come by car. By offering bike leasing, we lower that threshold. Employees can lease a high-quality electric bike for a small amount. To make our municipality even more attractive for cyclists, all streets in the center are Zone 30. We are also expanding bicycle highways and bicycle streets.

At the start of the legislature, bicycle streets were a very abstract concept. Now, people know exactly what a bicycle street is, and cars remain behind the cyclists. This transition went very smoothly!"

What added value does bike leasing offer for the municipality and for the employees?

"For a very small deduction from their net salary, employees can lease high-quality electric bikes . They use these bikes for their commute, but also privately. For example, we have an employee from Aalst who commutes to Merchtem on an electric cargo bike whenever the weather is nice. This allows him to carry all sorts of items, and he doesn't arrive covered in sweat. This bike is a great alternative to the car.

By offering electric bikes, you make it accessible to everyone. I’ve been riding electric for a long time. People used to find it a bit laughable when I arrived on an electric bike. Now it is generally accepted, and people realize the added value.

Besides the quality of the bikes, we are also very satisfied with the total package. Our employees can get on their bikes without any worries. Everything is included in the lease package: semi-annual maintenance, all repairs by your mobile service or a local bike shop, and VAB assistance for flat tires. All necessary insurance is provided too... everything is taken care of. For a small net deduction, they get a lot in return."

Is there more cycling in Merchtem since the bike lease plan started?

"Yes, definitely! It has had a truly positive influence!"

Would you recommend other public services to start a bike lease program?

"Absolutely. I would recommend it to everyone, and I’m happy to offer my services!"

Do you also want to start a bike lease plan for your company's employees? It is easy to implement and can even be budget-neutral. Contact Cyclobility. We offer bike leasing à la carte .