FAQs

The goal of the program is to deploy 6,000 e-bikes to Portlanders from income-qualified populations by December 31, 2029 to encourage alternative, independent, lower cost electric transportation.

Program funding will be available through 2029.

In 2018, Portland voters created the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) through a 1% surcharge on large retailer sales in Portland. PCEF developed the five-year Climate Investment Plan (CIP) with significant input from community members and local experts to map out programs that could help priority populations adapt to climate change and help the city reach its net zero goal. The Portland Rides E-bike Rebate Program is one of these strategic programs identified in the plan.

PCEF Priority Population means groups that have been historically under-resourced by sustainability, climate action, and clean energy programs. These groups include, but are not limited to, people with low incomes, people of color, and people with disabilities. These groups often have less access to the benefits of environmental investments, and at the same time, are more vulnerable to the negative impacts of climate-related events such as extreme heat, wildfire smoke, vector borne diseases, and flooding.

We can help you with the submission forms. Please contact us at PortlandEBikes@aptim.com or call (503) 563-0624.

Please reach out to PortlandEBikes@aptim.com or call (503) 563-0624 for assistance with confirming your identification or updating your application.

A one-time extension may be possible. Please reach out to PortlandEBikes@aptim.com or call (503) 563-0624 within 14 days of rebate expiration.

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For the standard and cargo program, once approved, you'll receive an email with rebate details and will have 60 days to redeem your rebate at a participating Portland e-bike retailer. For the adaptive program, once approved, you’ll receive an email with rebate details and will have 120 days to redeem your rebate at a participating adaptive Portland e-bike retailer. Visit a participating retailer and present your rebate email along with your government issued ID. Don’t forget about your accessories rebate which comes in a separate email. Make sure to redeem both your e-bike and accessories rebates within the provided timeframe. If one rebate only is used within the 60- or 120-day redemption cycle, your account will reflect a “rebate redeemed” status at the close of the cycle. Your unused rebate will no longer be active and you will not be eligible to reapply.

Please note if you are randomly selected for a rebate but do not submit your required documents in time, you will not be re-entered into the application pool for future selections.

For the standard and cargo program, once approved for an e-bike, you'll receive a second email with a separate accessories rebate and will have 60 days to redeem the rebate at a participating retailer. For the adaptive program, once approved for an e-bike, you'll receive a second email with a separate accessories rebate and will have 120 days to redeem the rebate at a participating retailer. Visit a participating retailer and present your rebate email along with your government-issued ID. The accessory rebate can be redeemed at a different participating retailer from where you purchased your e-bike if desired. The accessory rebate can only be used in one transaction. The accessory rebate cannot be combined with the e-bike rebate. Make sure to use your accessories rebate before the expiration date, even if your e-bike has not arrived by that time. Your retailer can assist you with picking accessories that will fit your chosen e-bike.

If you redeem one rebate only (e-bike or accessories) within the 60- or 120-day redemption cycle, your account will reflect a “rebate redeemed” status at the close of the cycle. Your unused rebate will no longer be active and you will not be eligible to reapply. Be sure to redeem both your e-bike rebate and accessories rebate within the redemption window, even if you have not received your e-bike yet. Your retailer can assist in selecting accessories that will fit your ordered e-bike.

All participating retailers are located in the city of Portland:

• Standard/Cargo Retailers Map
• Adaptive Retailers Map

Non-electric (analog) bikes are not eligible for rebate through the Portland Rides program. The goal of the Portland Rides program is to encourage alternative, independent, lower cost electric transportation, as defined by PCEF’s 5-year Climate Investment Plan (CIP). The CIP was developed through climate research, community engagement, and multiple rounds of input from residents, businesses, technical experts, government partners, and community organizations. Through development of the CIP, e-bikes were shown to provide a significant opportunity for meaningful impact to Portland’s priority population and in building resilience in a changing climate. A list of eligible e-bikes can be found here.

The standard/cargo program selects recipients for rebates using an automated random selection process. If you were not selected for a rebate, your application will be automatically entered into the next drawing and remaining drawings throughout the 2026-2029 program cycle. You can also withdraw your application at any time and re-apply at a later date. Currently, the random selection process does not offer higher chances to those who have been waiting longer.

Program participants may return their e-bike subject to the Retailer’s return policy. If a Retailer allows returns, the maximum return window will be 30 days from purchase to receive a new Portland Rides e-bike rebate, following proof of e-bike return. Participants will have 60 calendar days to redeem the new rebate. The second rebate will note the redemption deadline. Portland Rides does not honor returns on accessories. Warranties will be honored by the retailer and/or manufacturer for faulty equipment.

 Yes, you can withdraw your application at any time by contacting customer service at PortlandEBikes@aptim.com or 503-563-0624.

A one-time extension may be possible. If you received a rebate but did not utilize it by the rebate expiration deadline, please reach out to PortlandEBikes@aptim.com or call (503) 563-0624 within 14 days of expiration.

We have created a standard/cargo program guide to help inform you of what type of e-bike may be best suited for your lifestyle. Consider the following factors when choosing between a standard and cargo e-bike and refer to our standard/cargo program guide for more information.

The e-bike must be considered an adaptive e-bike per the retailer, and include at least one modification or frame type that addresses a disability-related functional need. Qualifying examples:

Adaptive Frame Types:

• Recumbent or semi-recumbent frame (including recumbent e-trikes)
• Hand-cycle design
• Upright trike configuration (with at least one other adaptive modification)
• Cargo frame modified to accommodate a wheelchair
• Tandem configuration for an assisted rider
• Wheelchair Power Assist attachments

Control Modifications

• Throttle-only operation (no pedaling required)
• Hand controls or levers adapted for limited grip or hand function
• Custom pedal assist settings for limited mobility or stamina

Seating Modifications

• Adaptive or supportive seating (back support, harness, lateral supports)

Stability & Balance Support Modifications

• Outrigger or stabilizing side wheels (permanent, not transitional)
• Balance bars or lateral support structures

Mounting & Accessibility Modifications

• Footrests or foot straps adapted for limited mobility
• Grab rails or mounting handles
• Ramp or lift integration for boarding

DOES NOT QUALIFY for the Adaptive E-Bike Rebate:

These features are standard or comfort-based and do not indicate a disability-related need on their own:

• Step-thru frame with no other modifications
• Standard upright trike with no other modifications
• Lightweight frame
• Suspension fork or suspension seat post
• Padded, ergonomic, or comfort saddle
• Wider tires for comfort or terrain (without other adaptive modifications)
• Standard mirrors, lights, bells, or fenders
• Panniers, baskets, or cargo racks
• Kickstand
• Standard seat height or stem length adjustments
• Grip tape or standard ergonomic grips

We encourage you to follow your e-bike manufacturer’s instructions in your e-bike's owner manual. Use the manufacturer-provided charger and plug it into a recommended outlet. Charging usually takes 3 to 6 hours depending on the battery size. Always charge in a dry, well-ventilated area, preferably indoors. Avoid using extension cords and unplug the charger once the battery is fully charged to preserve battery life. Speak with your participating retailer for more details about how to charge your e-bike battery.

We encourage you to follow your lock manufacturer’s instructions when parking and locking your bike in public. Be sure to obtain a strong lock, such as a U-lock, to secure the frame to an immovable object. We provide an accessories rebate to every awardee so they may purchase secure locks to ensure bikes are not stolen and are parked and locked properly. When parking your e-bike at home, we recommend that you bring the bike inside your home or garage to avoid risk of theft.

Please be aware that e-bikes are much heavier than regular bicycles, especially cargo e-bikes. While we recommend you bring your e-bike inside to avoid risk of theft, this may not be possible in all scenarios. If you are unable to store your e-bike inside your home, consider outdoor secure storage areas where you can lock up your e-bike.  We also recommend that you remove your battery and take it into your home, if possible. This serves as a theft deterrent.

We encourage you to ride your e-bike safely by utilizing PBOT’s bike maps, following all local rules, regulations, and signs, and attending one of our program’s e-bike education events.

• Bike Maps of Portland
• Biking in Portland webpage

To learn more attend an event

Once you consider the type of e-bike that you’d like to purchase, we recommend you check the program qualified products list and the standard/cargo retailers or the adaptive retailers.

Applicants may choose whichever rebate category best fits their needs. We suggest applicants with adaptive needs start with an adaptive e-bike application. If a standard or cargo e-bike is the best fit, as determined by an adaptive consultation, the rebate can be adjusted. Note: You will need to contact the team at PortlandEBikes@aptim.com or call (503) 563-0624 to request this change. This will adjust the eligible rebate amount from the $8,500 adaptive rebate to the applicable $1,600 standard or $2,350 cargo rebate. Only one rebate can be redeemed over the program’s lifetime.

Applicants can decide between standard or cargo e-bikes at the time of purchase at a participating retailer. Adaptive applicants may also choose a standard, cargo, or adaptive e-bike (as determined via adaptive fitting) at the time of purchase. Retailers can make the update from adaptive to standard or cargo at the point of sale. Rebates cannot be switched from standard/cargo to adaptive. You must withdraw your standard/cargo application and submit a new application for the adaptive rebate.  Please contact the team at PortlandEBikes@aptim.com or call (503) 563-0624 for assistance.

Yes, conversions must meet all adaptive e-bike requirements, including Class 1 or 2, 20mph max speed, motor wattage of 1000W or less, and UL 2271 (UL 2272 for wheelchair power assist) certification.

The e-bike must be considered an adaptive e-bike per the retailer, and include at least one modification or feature that addresses a disability-related functional need. Qualifying examples:

Control Modifications

• Throttle-only operation (no pedaling required)
• Hand controls or levers adapted for limited grip or hand function
• Custom pedal assist settings for limited mobility or stamina

Seating & Frame Modifications

• Adaptive or supportive seating (back support, harness, lateral supports)
• Recumbent or semi-recumbent frame
• Three-wheeled / trike configuration (with at least one other adaptive modification)
• Hand-cycle design
• Tandem configuration for an assisted rider
• Cargo frame modified to accommodate a wheelchair
• Wheelchair Power Assist attachments

Stability & Balance Support Modifications

• Outrigger or stabilizing side wheels (permanent, not transitional)
• Balance bars or lateral support structures

Mounting & Accessibility Modifications

• Footrests or foot straps adapted for limited mobility
• Grab rails or mounting handles
• Ramp or lift integration for boarding

DOES NOT QUALIFY for the Adaptive E-Bike Rebate:

These features are standard or comfort-based and do not indicate a disability-related need on their own:

• Step-thru frame with no other modifications
• Lightweight frame
• Suspension fork or suspension seat post
• Padded, ergonomic, or comfort saddle
• Wider tires for comfort or terrain (without other adaptive modifications)
• Standard mirrors, lights, bells, or fenders
• Panniers, baskets, or cargo racks
• Kickstand
• Standard seat height or stem length adjustments
• Grip tape or standard ergonomic grips

To become a participating retailer, you must have a store located in the City of Portland and agree to the program retailer requirements and terms and conditions. Every participating retailer will need to create a portal account to redeem rebates and request reimbursement. You will need to provide your business information, W-9 and select your payment option. Please review the terms and conditions and reach out to PortlandEBikes@aptim.com if you have questions.

The reimbursement process is easy. Simply verify the recipient’s rebate validity, complete the sale and redeem the rebate, and upload the proof of sale to the retailer portal. Retailers will be trained on how to use the retailer portal for reimbursement. Retailers can have additional logins for teammates who will be working on the program. Only enrolled and approved retailers can redeem rebates.