A revitalized program will offer 70 residents the chance for a $1,800 rebate on the purchase of an e-bike. Local organization, Commute Options, is partnering with the City of Bend to launch this E-bike Rebate Program, starting on June 16. The program will allow eligible residents to utilize a rebate for the purchase of an electric bike from local bike shops including BendR Cyclery/Ride2You and Bend Electric Bikes.
The rebates, according to a press release, aim to increase access to transportation options while enhancing mobility, community connectivity and public health. The initiative also hopes to support local businesses. The rebate program will be funded by the Pacific Power Foundation.
“E-bikes are a powerful tool to improve mobility and connect people to work, school, and essential services,” said Brian Potwin, executive director of Commute Options, in a press release.
“With the support of the Pacific Power Foundation and our partnership with the City of Bend, we’re helping more residents access affordable, healthy transportation options that meet their daily needs.”
To qualify for the program, those applying for a rebate must be a resident of the City of Bend, a Pacific Power customer, over the age of 18 and have a household income at or below 80% of the area median income. Applicants must also complete Commute Options’ e-bike safety course.
Once applications open on June 16, rebate recipients will be selected through a lottery process every three weeks, until all 70 rebates have been awarded.
“The E-Bike Rebate Program is a collaborative partnership that can drive meaningful change in our community,” Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler wrote in a press release.
“By making electric bikes more affordable and accessible, we’re not only supporting local businesses, but also promoting healthier lifestyles, easing traffic congestion and helping Bend move toward a more sustainable future. We’re proud to work alongside Commute Options and the Pacific Power Foundation to bring this initiative to our community.”
The City of Bend has introduced several initiatives over the years to encourage sustainable mobility options and decrease single-occupancy car trips, supporting the City’s Climate Action Plan which aims to cut down on fossil fuels.
Examples include the City’s bike share program, along with investments in infrastructure improvements that encourage walking and biking and attempts to increase access to electric vehicle charging stations while promoting the use of EVs.
In 2023, the City launched a similar e-bike rebate program, offering a $2,000 rebate for 75 households.
Those interested in applying for the rebate can visit commuteoptions.org for full program details, application instructions and eligibility guidelines.
This article appears in Source Weekly June 12, 2025.
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“The E-Bike Rebate Program is a collaborative partnership that can drive meaningful change in our community,” Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler wrote in a press release.
It’s just time for Melanie to go! She turns a blind eye to the massive development and the corruption of the City of Bend with Brooks Resources, moving growth boundaries at the will of BR. She can’t seem to figure out the real issues facing this community. We all know them. We all see them. Try to find a doctor! Summit is closing their oncology department.
Handing out money for e-bikes!? You just can’t make up the incompetence. You just can’t. A lottery? So, people that can afford these bikes are going to benefit?! Ridiculous!
I do believe that folks who would use these bikes for transportation (not joy rides) would be eligible for the money.