Melbourne has always been a city on the move — from packed trams on Swanston Street to locals zipping through laneways on two wheels. But in recent years, one eco-friendly option has really taken off: e-bikes.
Whether you’re a local looking for a quick ride to work or a visitor wanting to explore the city without breaking a sweat, Melbourne’s electric bike hire service is one of the easiest, cheapest, and greenest ways to get around.
Here’s your complete Melbourne guide to e-bikes in 2025–2026 — where to find them, how to ride them, and everything you need to know before hopping on.
Why Melbourne Is Riding the E-Bike Wave
The City of Melbourne, along with the City of Yarra and City of Port Phillip, has partnered with (formerly JUMP bikes) for a one-year trial of an electric bike share program.
The aim?
- Cut traffic congestion
- Reduce transport emissions
- Encourage more people to cycle
- Make short trips in the city faster and more enjoyable
Takes care of the whole operation — from bike maintenance to cleaning — so riders can focus on enjoying the journey.
Where You Can Ride E-Bikes
You’ll find Lime e-bikes available across:
- City of Melbourne – CBD, Docklands, Carlton, Parkville, Southbank
- City of Yarra – Fitzroy, Collingwood, Richmond, Abbotsford
- City of Port Phillip – St Kilda, Port Melbourne, South Melbourne
🚫 Note: Riding outside these council areas may result in a penalty charge, so keep your trip within the service zones.
How to Hire a Bike in Melbourne
Hiring an e-bike is as simple as ordering a coffee:
- Download the Uber or Lime app
- Find your nearest e-bike on the in-app map
- Scan the QR code on the bike to unlock it
- Follow the in-app safety tips and start riding
You’ll get a helmet with every bike — and you’ll need to wear it (it’s the law in Victoria).
How Much Does It Cost?
Lime uses a pay-as-you-go system:
- A small unlock fee
- A per-minute riding rate
Prices can vary, so always check the app before riding. Locals often save with Lime Passes or promo codes.
How Fast Do E-Bikes Go?
Lime e-bikes in Melbourne are capped at 25 km/h, giving you a good mix of speed and safety.
Even with the motor assist, you must follow Victorian cycling rules:
- Ride in bike lanes where possible
- Stop at red lights
- Use hand signals
- Give way to pedestrians
More details can be found on the VicRoads Cycling Rules.
Parking Rules in Melbourne
Good parking keeps the streets safe and accessible:
- Use a public bike rack where available
- If not, park upright on the kerbside, at least 1.5m from buildings
- Avoid no-parking zones marked in the app
Improper parking could lead to a relocation fee from Lime.
Cleaning & Safety Measures
Lime is a registered COVID-19 safe business. This means:
- Bikes and helmets are sanitised regularly
- High-touch areas are cleaned frequently in the warehouse and on the street
Still, it’s smart to bring your own hand sanitiser for extra peace of mind.
Best Scenic Rides on a Melbourne E-Bike
Want to turn your ride into an adventure? Try:
- Yarra River Trail – Peaceful, leafy, and perfect for a weekend spin
- St Kilda Foreshore – Sea breeze, sandy views, and penguins at dusk
- Fitzroy & Collingwood Loop – Street art, coffee, and boutique shopping
Need Help or See a Problem?
Are You need help? click here
You can report issues by:
- Email: support-au@li.me
- Phone: 1800 861 305
- In-App: Report directly through the Lime app
Include the bike’s number plate (under the QR code or at the back) for a quicker fix.
Why Lime E-Bikes Are Perfect for Melbourne
- Fast & Flexible – Get from the CBD to St Kilda in under 30 minutes
- Eco-Friendly – Fewer cars, less pollution
- Tourist-Friendly – See more of Melbourne without the cost of a taxi
- Fun Factor – You’ll actually enjoy the journey
Melbourne’s Lime e-bike hire service is more than just a trend — it’s a smarter way to travel. Whether you’re commuting to work, cruising down St Kilda Beach, or checking out Fitzroy’s street art, e-bikes make the trip quick, affordable, and good for the planet.
So next time you’re in the city, skip the tram queue and ride Melbourne the electric way.