Lime e-bikes and e-scooters ruling the streets of Tacoma

They’re finally here! Lime electric bikes and electric scooters are now avail­able all around Tacoma. Sept. 21, Ta­coma streets and sidewalks were flood­ed with these new bright green dockless bikes and scooters. Bird, a similar dock­less scooter share company, also rolled out about 200 e-scooters to the down­town area Oct. 5.

What started in Seattle — more than a year ago — has now made its way to Tacoma. The company has planned a two-month pilot program where 250 e-scooters and 100 e-bikes are scattered about the city to be used by the public. The e-scooters can go up to 14.8 mph for a distance of 20 miles.

Tacoma residents, commuters and visitors can use the code LIMETAC on the Lime app for a free 30-minute ride.

It’s highly encouraged to pre-check your bikes and scooters before riding, in light of a recent incident in Seattle where a vandal intentionally clipped brakes on bikes at Pioneer Square.

According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, bikes — but not scooters — are legally con­sidered vehicles on the roadways. This means bicyclists must obey the rules of the road just like drivers of any vehicles. Helmets are also encouraged when rid­ing both bikes and scooters, although there are no current Washington state laws requiring helmet use. However, some cities and counties do require hel­mets when biking. It’s also important to be cautious and watch for obstructions on the street — such as potholes, rocks and bumps — to prevent any injuries while riding.

Lime has also implemented a pro­gram called “Lime Access” where eli­gible individuals, including those who participate in any state or federally run assistance programs, can receive 95 per­cent off any Lime pedal bike ride and 50 percent off all Lime-E electric-assist bikes and Lime-S electric scooters rides.

Looking to make some extra cash? Lime is also seeking “Lime Juicers” to charge their e-scooters. You can apply directly through their app where you’ll be asked for your name, email, phone number and driver license information. Each scooter takes 6–7 hours to charge and then you must return them to their designated location before 7 a.m. the following day. Lime Juicers earn around $5–9 for each scooter and up to $150 a day. For more on job information, log onto the Lime app or visit their website.

What are your thoughts on e-bikes and e-scooters around Tacoma and on campus?

use the code LIMETAC on the app for a free 30 minute ride. For more information, visit www.li.me