Getting around Walsall on two wheels has become easier following the arrival of Lime’s electric bikes in October, offering residents a new way to travel across the borough.
The distinctive green and white e-bikes have been introduced as part of a wider scheme to encourage cycling and more sustainable travel throughout the West Midlands.
Replacing the previous West Midlands Cycle Hire scheme, the new fleet is operated by Lime following its appointment by the West Midlands Combined Authority.
Walsall’s new bikes are Lime’s most advanced model to date, with the borough receiving the only fleet of its kind currently available in the UK.
Councillor Nicky Barker, Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, officially welcomed the bikes at a launch event on Tuesday 13 October.
A new way to get around Walsall
Whether it’s a trip into town, a journey to work or simply an opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, the new e-bikes offer an alternative to travelling by car.
The electrically assisted bikes are designed to make cycling more accessible, particularly for people who might find traditional cycling difficult or haven’t ridden a bike for some time.
Councillor Nicky Barker welcomed the launch, saying:
“It’s fantastic to welcome Lime to Walsall and great to see the bikes in the flesh. This will provide a real boost to active travel across the borough and a huge improvement on the existing cycle hire offer.
The introduction of these new state-of-the-art e-bikes is a great step forward for Walsall, giving people a convenient, affordable and sustainable way to travel. Whether commuting to work, connecting with public transport, visiting local businesses or simply getting active, these bikes provide residents with more transport choices while helping to reduce congestion and improve air quality. We’re proud to be bringing innovative travel options to our communities and supporting healthier, more connected neighbourhoods.”
Walsall joins growing West Midlands cycling network
Lime bikes have already been introduced in other parts of the West Midlands, including Wolverhampton and Sandwell, and Walsall’s arrival on the network marks another stage in the regional rollout.
Mayor of the West Midlands Richard Parker said:
“Lime’s ebikes have already been a huge success across the region, and I have no doubt they’ll be just as popular here in Walsall.
“They make getting around on two wheels much easier for people, even those who thought their cycling days were behind them. Alongside our continued investment in safer cycling routes, this gives residents a practical, affordable, and fun way to get around.”
Tom Newham, Lime’s Senior Public Affairs Manager, added:
“Since we first launched Lime bikes across the West Midlands in April, we’ve seen them become a part of everyday life for residents, commuters and visitors. We’re really proud that Walsall residents will now have access to the service – joining their Black Country counterparts in Wolverhampton and Sandwell.
The region has shown real enthusiasm for active travel, and we’re excited to work with Transport for the West Midlands, Black Country Transport and Walsall Council to give more people the opportunity to cycle.”
How much does it cost to hire a Lime bike?
Residents looking to try the new bikes can hire them for 20p per minute, using either the Lime or Uber app.
For those planning longer journeys or hoping to use the service regularly, discounted LimePass bundles are also available, with prices starting at £2.99 for 30 minutes.
The bikes will be stationed at various locations across Walsall, with riders able to check the Lime app to find their nearest available bike as more locations are added.
How to get started
Hiring a Lime bike is straightforward. Riders need to download the Lime app, create an account and provide a valid phone number or email address, along with a payment method.
Once registered, users can locate an available bike and scan its QR code through the Lime or Uber app to begin their journey.
Riders must be aged 18 or over, and everyone using the bikes is encouraged to wear a helmet.
The introduction of Lime offers Walsall residents another way to make shorter journeys, connect with public transport and explore their local area without relying on a car.
For more details about the service, including bike availability and hire options, visit the Lime West Midlands website.