A NEW e-bike scheme launched across Colchester has been described as “a significant step towards promoting sustainable transport" in the city.
In all, 100 e-bikes were introduced to Colchester’s roads on Friday by TIER, the micro-mobility operator which also runs the e-scooter scheme across much of Essex.
Councillor Andrea Luxford Vaughan, Colchester Council’s portfolio holder for planning, environment and sustainability, said the e-bikes’ introduction will respond to the higher demand for eco-friendly methods of travel.
Users pay £1 to unlock the bike, with charges running at 21p per minute during journeys around Colchester.
Mrs Luxford Vaughan added: “This initiative not only promotes the accessibility and convenience of cycling as a practical solution but also contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions.
“By choosing to ride an e-bike, you can reduce your carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment.”
The new bikes, which are a distinctive cyan in colour, have a top speed of 15mph – making them slightly faster than e-scooters, which run at a maximum speed of 12.5mph.
They also feature front and rear lights, a bell, mounted baskets, and a smartphone holder.
Parking bays are found using a QR code on the bike, but users will incur a £1 surcharge if the e-bikes are not returned to a bay specified by the Tier app.
Using the e-bike is said to be similar to riding a normal bike; the rider pedals while the electric motor helps the e-bike to reach 15mph, at which point the motor stops providing assistance.
Once the speed drops below 15mph, the motor kicks in again.
Del O’Sullivan, Tier’s regional operations manager, said the e-bikes will be used by people taking longer journeys with slightly more luggage.
He said: “We find that e-bikes are often used differently to e-scooters, with riders choosing them for longer journeys, thanks to the seat, and for journeys where they are carrying more items with them thanks to the basket.
“E-bikes are great for people who want to incorporate a bit more activity into their journeys, but as the motor assists pedalling you don’t work up a sweat getting to your destination.
https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/23646889.colchester-e-bike-scheme-sees-100-vehicles-hit-road/
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