Oxford: ‘Next generation’ LimeBikes in city from today

The shared e-bike provider has said the new bikes have been designed to tackle congestion in Oxford, which was cited as the city’s biggest transportation challenge by 49 per cent of locals in a recent YouGov poll run on behalf of Lime.

A limited roll-out of rear cargo storage bikes is giving users more practical space to encourage them to switch from driving, after 30 per cent of those polled said extra storage would make e-bikes a more viable alternative for everyday journeys.

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Currently a pilot scheme, there are a limited number of rear cargo storage bikes being introduced.

A new generation of LimeBikes have been launched in Oxford (Image: Jamie Henderson)

The company said this latest launch in Oxford has come ‘in direct response’ to what people say would help them switch from cars to e-bikes, including lowering e-bike hire prices.

It’s therefore launched a new subscription model, LimePrime in Oxford, to bring hire prices in line with or below public transport for a monthly fee of £2.99, which unlock flat rates of £1 per ride under five minutes and £1.50 per ride under 20 minutes.

The new-generation bikes also include 20 in wheels, replaceable components to reduce waste and extend the vehicle’s lifespan, ergonomic hand grips and portrait-oriented, secure phone holders for navigation.

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Councillor Emily Kerr, active transport champion for Oxfordshire said: “I’m hugely excited about the potential for hire ebikes and escooters in Oxford as a way for people to get around in an easy and environmental way.

“I just loved trying the new Lime bike model, which felt light and nimble, and had a decent space for me to put my handbag.

A new generation of LimeBikes have been launched in Oxford (Image: Jamie Henderson)

“Travelling by hire bike and scooter can get people quickly to their destinations avoiding congestion and benefiting the environment, and micromobility operators are a key part of the transport mix of future cities.”

The new bikes also have enhanced GPS tracking to more accurately determine if they’re parked in designated bays.

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Lime users are required to end trips with the bike left in a parking bay or bike rack, or neatly parked to the side of a pavement, depending on the location.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member for transport management said: “It is excellent to see a new generation of bikes reaching our streets that respond to feedback and open up a very practical and accessible travel option for more users.

“Giving people more choice in ways to make short trips in the city helps reduce traffic overall and is better for all of us.”