At CyclErie Bike Shop, we’ve been thrilled to see Colorado’s eBike rebate program take off.
It’s brought more of you through our doors in downtown Erie, riding away on everything from Aventon eBikes to Benno Remi Demis (cat in the basket optional!). But here’s the catch: while the rebates are boosting sales, we’re still waiting on over half a million dollars in reimbursements from the state—and we don’t know when it’s coming. This blog post dives into what’s happening, with a nod to Nicole Fierro’s reporting for FOX31 (KDVR.com, March 20, 2025), who first shared our story.
A Rebate Program That’s Working—For Customers
The Colorado eBike rebate program, launched in 2024, offers a $450 discount at checkout for qualifying residents (those earning under $81,000 in Weld County, for example). It’s been a game-changer. As co-owner Dan Johnson told FOX31, “It’s amazing because every resident of the state of Colorado that takes a great discount is incentivized to buy one of these great bicycles.” Last year alone, we sold over 1,300 eBikes—proof that folks from Durango to the Western Slope are choosing CyclErie for their electric rides.
Being one of the largest dealers for brands like Aventon and Velotric in Colorado, we draw customers from far and wide. The rebate helps us compete with big corporate shops, which is why we jumped at the chance to join the program. “If we’re not offering a $450 discount and the guy up the street is, of course, no one’s going to come to your shop, right?” Dan explained to FOX31. It’s a no-brainer—we want you to ride with us.
The Financial Squeeze
Here’s where it gets tricky. For every eBike sold with the rebate, the state owes us $500 ($450 for the discount, plus an extra $50 after tax filing). Do the math: 1,300 eBikes times $500 means we’re waiting on $650,000. That’s a massive chunk of cash for a small, family-run shop like ours. As Dan put it, “It leaves us holding the bag a little bit… We’re kind of out here on the limb looking at that big pile of money that’s owed to us.”
The state promised quick reimbursements, but there’s no firm due date. “When you go to a traditional lending provider, they don’t look at it as a receivable,” Dan told FOX31’s Nicole Fierro. Without that money flowing in, restocking our floor—like that used Velotric T1 ST by the cash-wrap—becomes a challenge. And it’s not just the delay: we can’t even file for reimbursement yet because the Department of Revenue hasn’t opened the S-Corp tax filing link for 2024. We’re stuck in limbo.
What the State Says
The Colorado Energy Office, quoted in the FOX31 article, acknowledges the program’s success: “Widespread e-bike adoption is an important part of Colorado’s goals to cut pollution,” and over 130 retailers statewide are making it happen. They say refunds can take up to three weeks after filing, and starting this spring, we’ll be able to claim advance quarterly payments—a step in the right direction. They’re also pointing retailers to low-cost financing options to bridge the gap until tax season.
We appreciate the intent—more eBikes on the road is a win for everyone. But for CyclErie, waiting until tax filing (or beyond) to see $650,000 isn’t sustainable. We’re not a corporate giant; we’re a local shop keeping Erie’s cycling community rolling.
How We’re Holding Steady
Despite the wait, we’re not slowing down. CyclErie is still your spot for test rides (come try an Aventon!), expert repairs, and that personal touch you won’t find online. We’re working with the state to speed things up and exploring in-store deals—like bonus accessory discounts with eBike purchases—to keep the good vibes going. Our goal? Keep you riding, rebate or not.
How You Can Help
Love CyclErie? Here’s how you can support us while we wait:
- Shop Local: Pick your next eBike from us—rebate or full price—and keep your dollars in Erie.
- Spread the Word: Tell friends about us (and that FOX31 story by Nicole Fierro!) to grow our community.
- Ride With Us: Swing by for a test ride or just to chat—bring your cat if you’ve got a basket!
Looking Ahead
The eBike rebate program is a fantastic idea, and we’re proud to be part of it—1,300 eBikes and counting! But until the state’s reimbursement process catches up, we’re counting on you, our CyclErie family, to keep us pedaling. Big thanks to Nicole Fierro and FOX31 for shining a light on our story (check out the full article here). Drop by the shop, say hi to Dan, and let’s keep Erie rolling—together.
