Gold Coast public transport: Huge overhaul for city’s Lime e-bike scheme revealed

The company behind the Gold Coast’s electric bike scheme has revealed a major shake-up is coming to the alternative public transport. Find out what it is.

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The company behind the Gold Coast’s electric bike scheme has rolled out a new fleet that it claims will improve rider and pedestrian safety.

On Tuesday, Lime started swapping the current e-bikes that have appeared across the city with its new fleet of ‘Gen4’ e-bikes.

All older model bikes were expected to be off the streets by mid-week.

University students Lucy Naylor and Will Rothe try out the new e-bikes. Picture: Alan Barber

More than one million trips have been taken using the alternative public transport since they were launched on the Gold Coast in 2018.

Lime ANZ general manager Hugo Burt-Morris said it was committed to offering residents and tourists a smooth and sustainable ride.

These old Lime e-bikes will be replaced with a new version by mid-week. Picture: Melanie Whiting

“With over 250,000 people having ridden Lime on the Gold Coast, we know our riders will love our new Gen4 e-bikes,” he said.

“We believe residents and visitors will take quickly to our new vehicles, enjoying the extra boost they give you on your commute, to go to study, or to get around town.”

Upgrades to the Gen4 e-bikes include easily accessible helmets, new modular design, longer lasting battery with a range of more than 60km, a phone holder and automatic two-speed transmission.

The sharp rise in the number of electric scooters and bikes on Queensland roads and footpaths has caused controversy in recent years.

Last month, it was reported Gold Coast councillors wanted licences to be introduced due to concerns about speeding on beachfront pathways in tourism hubs.

Mayor Tom Tate wrote to Transport Minister Mark Bailey pleading for state intervention to control youth riders.