An e-bike hire scheme is expected to arrive in Aberystwyth by September after stock delays set back the launch date.

The Sustrans pilot scheme will see eight e-cargo bikes arrive in Aberystwyth as part of the new bike hiring initiative offering low-cost hire and long-term loan of e-bikes to local residents, similar to London’s ‘Boris Bikes’.

The pilot will see four e-bike hubs established across Wales, in Rhyl, Swansea and Barry as well as Aberystwyth.

An e-cargo bike library will also be established in Aberystwyth, offering free trials of e-cargo bikes as well as advice and training for local businesses and residents. E-cargo bikes offer the potential to reduce van traffic, for example being used for last mile deliveries.

While this scheme was due to be launched this summer, Sustrans have now confirmed this has been delayed: “Aberystwyth will be set up with an e-cargo bike loan scheme, with eight cargo bikes in total.

“We’ve had delays on all the e-cargo stock, however. Some should arrive in September.”

Launched as a charity in 1977, Sustrans aim to make it “easier for people to walk and cycle”.

When announcing the Welsh Government-funded Sustrans scheme, then Deputy Minister for Economy and Transport Lee Waters commented: “We want to give people more options of how to get around, and in particular we want to make greener forms of transport more convenient and accessible. Sustainable travel requires a culture change and the pilots are another step towards delivering our goal.

“There is a strong link between e-bikes and active travel as more people get used to being on bikes. There are also specific benefits in rural communities where longer distances are more common, with e-bikes making cycling viable for more people.

“These pilots will be used to gather evidence and inform policy, with a view to a wider rollout in the future.”

Director at Sustrans Cymru, Christine Boston added: “Sustrans Cymru are thrilled to be delivering this pilot project in five locations across Wales. e-Bikes and e-cargo bikes have the potential to transform the way people think about active travel.

“By working directly with communities, we will gather valuable data from participant feedback including journey patterns, barriers and network development needs. This will in turn help inform Welsh Government of the potential that e-bikes hold in decarbonising transport.

“The project will empower people who would not usually cycle to try a sustainable way of travelling. It will also provide an alternative travel option to those who may not own a car.”