Lime to pull bikes from Seattle streets

SEATTLE — There will be one less option to get around Seattle beginning in 2020. Lime has announced that it is packing up its e-bikes around the city, as its permit with the city expires.

The company told KIRO 7 that it had an option to extend the permit an extra three months to connect to an anticipated deal to bring e-scooters to the city, but instead it opted to halt service as usage was expected to drop during the winter.

“We had already reduced our operations, based on demand,” a spokesman said. “We are committed to working with the City of Seattle to create a robust mobility program that includes free-floating scooters and improved bike options beginning in the spring.”

Those who use bicycles to get around Seattle said it was bad news for those who want to see continued growth for those opting not to use cars.

“It’d be great if we had fewer cars and more people using these amazing bike lanes,” said Sarah Goodwin, an e-bike user who alternates between Lime and Jump bikes.

“I’m all for e-bikes,” said Henry Milander, who uses his personal bike as his primary mode of transportation. “I think seeing a lot of these micro-mobility and non-car ownership options disappear –-- that’s kind of sad.”

Milander said that increased riders have helped the bicycling community usher in bike lanes, and other safety features. He noted that there are issues, including ADA compliance issues from people parking them around the city improperly.

“That’s a discussion we need to have,” he said.

The move by Lime leaves Seattle with one less option to get around the area as Sound Transit prepares to alter its operation at Pioneer Square. Uber’s Jump bikes are the only remaining bicycles for tourists and locals to utilize.

According to a spokesperson with Lime, e-bikes would likely return if the company successfully launches its planned e-scooter program.

In the interim, properly working bikes will be shipped to cities that continue their e-bike programs during the winter months. Nonfunctioning bikes will be disassembled and recycled.

If you’re a prepaid Lime rider you can email Lime support or contact their customer service number at 1(888) 546-3345. Those who’ve prepaid can also hold onto their accounts to use credit if they return as planned in the spring.

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