Energy Costs – Save Money While Riding

Ever looked at your utility bill and thought, "There’s got to be a cheaper way?" If you already ride a bike, you’re part‑way there. Cycling can trim fuel use, lower electricity demand, and keep your wallet happier. Below are the simplest tricks to turn your two‑wheeler into a money‑saving machine.

Cut Fuel and Power Bills with Cycling

Swapping a short car trip for a bike ride instantly saves petrol or diesel. A 10‑mile round‑trip on a scooter uses about 0.5 litres of fuel, which costs roughly £0.70. Do that five times a week and you’re already saving £180 a year.

But the savings don’t stop at the pump. If you work from home and use a spin bike or a smart trainer, you’ll notice a small rise in electricity use. A typical trainer draws about 100 W. Run it for an hour, five days a week, and you add only 0.5 kWh to your bill – less than a cup of tea.

So the biggest win is simply riding outdoors whenever possible. You get fresh air, exercise, and a lower carbon footprint without any extra power cost.

Smart Ways to Keep Your E‑Bike Energy Costs Low

Electric bikes are fantastic for longer commutes, but they do need charging. Here’s how to keep that cost down:

Charge at night. Most electricity plans are cheaper after 10 pm. Plug your e‑bike in before you go to bed and you’ll use the off‑peak rate.

Don’t over‑charge. Batteries stop charging once they hit 100 %. Unplugging as soon as it’s full prevents waste and prolongs battery life.

Use eco‑mode. Most e‑bikes have a low‑assist setting that still gives a boost but uses far less power. Save the high‑assist for hills or when you’re in a hurry.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Under‑inflated tyres make the motor work harder. Check your pressure weekly and you’ll shave off a few watts every ride.

These habits can cut your charging cost by up to 30 % – a few pounds each year, but every penny adds up.

Beyond the wallet, cutting energy use helps the planet. Fewer car miles mean less CO₂, and a smaller electricity load lessens demand on power plants. It’s a win‑win for you and the environment.

So next time you think about the cost of getting from point A to point B, reach for your bike first. Whether you’re pedalling, using a spin trainer, or gliding on an e‑bike, you’re already lowering energy costs in a simple, effective way.