Atlanta E-Bike Discounts See Strong Demand in First Round of Applications

ATLANTA — Atlanta’s first round of e-bike rebate applications are out, and the response reflects the growing popularity of battery-powered two-wheelers.

It’s a flash of inspiration that brings Mary Dawson to Clutch Bicycle Shop in southwest Atlanta. She’s one of 8,888 people hoping to pay little or nothing for a bike that charges.

“I don’t have to worry about driving my truck, looking for a parking spot,” Dawson said. “I can go to the grocery store or the deli around the corner.”

Funded by $1,000,000 from the City of Atlanta, the rebate program offers $500 to $2,000 off the price of an e-bike. The first round of applications closed last Sunday. Propel ATL and the Atlanta Regional Commission plan to accept more applications in August and October. They are currently looking at ways to expand beyond the city limits.

“We are seeking federal grants to expand this program to the region, and by expanding it to the region, we are distributing more bikes,” said Jeremiah Jones of Propel ATL.

Electric bikes combine the power of pedaling with an electric motor to travel at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.

“They’ve become extremely popular,” said Michelle Dunbar, owner of Clutch. “They come on the market and bam, everyone wants an electric bike.”

Michele and her husband Kris manage one of the stores participating in the discount program. They’ve talked to customers who are looking for a way to get out of their cars.

“Things like running errands, even taking the kids to school,” Kris Dunbar said. “We have bikes that can hold up to two kids.”

Propel ATL and the Atlanta Regional Commission plan to select all rebate winners for the first round by the end of July.