Bike hire schemes drive interest in ownership, shows ACT member research
Posted on in Business News , Cycles News
Bike hire schemes across the UK are sparking a rise in interest in bike ownership, according to new research from ACT member Paul’s Cycles.
With nearly 25 million hire journeys made between September 2022 and September 2023, data shows that increased access to rental bikes is encouraging more people to explore cycling long-term.
Paul’s Cycles analysed search trends in 11 locations where hire scheme Beryl operates and found that in most cases, interest in buying a bike either held steady or increased after the scheme launched.
Only two areas—Cornwall and Dorchester, Weymouth and Portland—saw a drop in purchase-related searches one year on, down 44% and 50% respectively.
In six of the 11 cities, searches related to bike sales increased just three months after launch, with Leeds seeing a 143% rise, Worcester 100%, and Plymouth and Greater Manchester both 50%.
One year later, Greater Manchester, Leeds and Plymouth all showed further growth in search interest, with increases of 22%, 55%, and 40% respectively.
Tom Thornley, Managing Director at Paul’s Cycles, said: “New riders now have a low-barrier entry point into cycling, which only expands the cycling audience.
“This increase in rental cycling leads to higher engagement with the sport, and with that, more potential bike owners.”
“While renting can feel flexible, the costs quickly add up and often don’t provide the custom fit, convenience, or sense of pride that comes with owning your own bike.
“Ownership brings long-term value—financially and personally. You can upgrade, personalise, and it’s ready whenever you are, no app or reservation needed.”
As the cost of living continues to impact spending, Thornley notes that “for riders using bike share schemes regularly, buying a bike can pay for itself in under a year.”
“With schemes like Cycle to Work and interest-free finance, it becomes more than a purchase—it’s an investment in health, freedom and exploration,” he added.
The findings come as more UK cities roll out e-bike hire programmes, adding to the growing network of low-commitment cycling options available nationwide.