Riding electric bikes and scooters in Canberra

In brief:

• Electric scooters and electric bikes provide accessible transport, reduce car dependence and encourage more active lifestyles.
• Lime operates e-bikes and e-scooter hire in Canberra.
• Whether you use your own device or a shared e-scooter or e-bike, it’s important to understand the rules for riding safely and legally.

Electric bikes, electric scooters and other personal mobility devices are a convenient way to travel around Canberra.

They can also be a safe, affordable and sustainable mode of transport.

Whether you’re using your own bike or scooter or a shared device, it’s important to understand the rules for riding safely and legally in the ACT.

Riding safety and rules

Just as if you were driving a car or riding a motorcycle, road rules apply when riding an e-scooter or e-bike.

Riders are expected to be aware of the rules and take responsibility for safe behaviour.

When riding an e-scooter, you must:

• Wear a helmet – You must wear an approved safety helmet at all times while riding.

• Never ride under the influence – Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and illegal. If you’ve been drinking, catch public transport, call a lift or walk home.

• Avoid mobile phone use – You are not allowed to use a mobile device while operating an e-scooter.

• Have a warning device – Your e-scooter must have a warning device, such as a bell, fitted to the device or otherwise accessible to you.

• Use appropriate safety equipment – Lights and reflectors must be fitted to the device or worn on your person when riding at night or in hazardous weather conditions.

• Carry only one rider – Only one person is permitted per e-scooter. Passengers are not allowed.

• Give way to pedestrians – You must give way, keep to the left and be mindful of others. Sharing paths and roads is everyone’s responsibility.

• Supervise children – Children under 12 years of age must not use an e-scooter without adult supervision.

• Park sensibly – Always park off the main path and away from stairs, ramps, bus stops, light rail stops and entry or exit points.

For more information on how to ride safely, visit the Transport Canberra website.

Shared e-bikes and e-scooters

Lime operates e-scooter and e-bike hire across Canberra.

Canberra’s shared e-rideable scheme is very popular, with about 1,900 trips taken per day since it began in September 2020.

Lime offers:

• e-bikes with baskets for people carrying things and travelling longer distances
• standing e-scooters.

Which regions have access to Lime?

Lime devices operate in suburbs within:

• Central Canberra
• Gungahlin
• Belconnen
• Weston Creek
• Woden
• Tuggeranong.

For more information on shared e-scooters and e-bikes, visit the Transport Canberra website.

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