California's popular electric bike rebate program just hit a speed bump, and transportation advocates are not happy about it.

As reported by Cycling West, more than two dozen organizations are pushing back after state officials moved to pull funding from the Electric Bicycle Incentive Project, a program meant to help low-income Californians afford e-bikes.

Often called EBIP, it launched as a $10 million pilot program to help lower-income residents buy electric bikes. The idea was to make e-bikes more affordable so people could reduce car use and switch to cleaner transportation.

The response was massive. According to CalBike, more than 100,000 Californians tried to apply or signed up for updates before the initial funding ran out. 

But instead of expanding the program, advocacy groups say the California Air Resources Board quietly reallocated the remaining funds without public discussion.

"This is not what climate leadership looks like," said CalBike Executive Director Kendra Ramsey. "Over one hundred thousand Californians lined up for a modest voucher that would help them drive less, save money, and move freely."

E-bikes make life easier. For many people, especially those feeling squeezed by gas prices and car costs, an e-bike can be a serious money-saver.

Commuting by e-bike instead of driving can reduce spending on gas, insurance, parking, and maintenance, saving you thousands of dollars a year. E-bike users get fresh air and movement, but with an electric assist, hills, longer distances, and daily errands become way more doable.

Of course, upfront costs remain a barrier for many riders. 

For people who don't want to pay full retail prices, Upway is a popular option. The site offers a huge selection of e-bikes, many at up to 60% off retail, making it easier to find something that fits both your commute and your budget.

What factor would be most important for you when buying an e-bike? Price 💰 Battery range 🔋 Max speed 💨 How it looks 💅 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

And if you have an e-bike you're not using much, Upway also buys used e-bikes, helping riders sell their bikes while keeping them out of landfills and on the road.

For people already considering switching to an e-bike, pairing it with home solar can take savings to another level. Charging your bike with solar power keeps costs low while further reducing household emissions.

Solar Explorer is a tool that connects users with vetted local installers, offers concierge-level support, and can save customers up to $10,000 on installation, including $0-down options to fit all budgets.

As the debate over e-bike funding continued, one thing was clear: Californians are ready for transportation that's cheaper, healthier, and cleaner, and many are eager to pedal towards that progress.

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