Aalborg to get 500 Lime e-bikes despite cyclist concerns

Aalborg is set to receive 500 electric rental bikes from Lime before the summer holidays, following a unanimous decision by the city’s technical and environmental committee, DR reports.

The local chapter of the Danish Cyclists’ Federation has voiced skepticism. Chairman Mike White said the bikes will likely be placed where demand is highest, areas that already face heavy pressure on cycle parking.

“The bikes will end up where Lime sees a business opportunity, meaning where cycle parking is already strained,” White said. He also warned that the heavy e-bikes could become a hazard if left lying around, particularly for visually impaired people, the elderly, and those with disabilities. “If a Lime bike falls over, it is hard to lift. Many might leave it lying, and it could remain there for a long time. Falling over one could cause serious injuries,” he said, drawing parallels to electric scooters.

Committee chair Peter Lindholdt (DD) said the decision was about increasing mobility. “The company wants to bring 500 bikes, so we are trying it out. We will then see if new bike racks are needed where problems arise, but we do not yet know where that might be,” he said.

Lime already operates e-bikes in Aarhus and Copenhagen. The Aalborg scheme is a one-year trial. White called for a contingency plan. “It is great that we are getting city bikes again after many years, but there should be some kind of readiness and a plan B if parking chaos occurs. That should be addressed before the bikes arrive,” he said.