E-bike rebate program crashes following website issues

A new Minnesota e-bike rebate program has already had to temporarily shut down following a website crash last week.

The application, managed by Minnesota IT Services through the Department of Revenue, crashed due to a high volume of applications June 5. Fewer than 80 went through, and the website has still not reopened.

"Despite anticipated high demand, our external vendors were unable to support the capacity needed for the launch of the e-bike rebate program," officials explained last Thursday.

Once the website is fixed, applicants can expect a rebate of 50-75% of the cost of the bike, worth up to $1,500. Rebates are limited to $2 million a year, on a first-come-first-serve basis. Cash back is based upon 2023 income.

"Even with more than a year to prepare, we crashed a government website. And a little point of pride — policymakers, think about what's happening here. That's how incredibly popular this program is," said Michael Wojcik, executive director of Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota.

Interested applicants must be 15 years of age, lived in Minnesota for a year and not be claimed as a dependent.

To estimate a rebate, or find a list of eligible bike companies, visit the Minnesota Department of Revenue website.