The ACT Government has extended the Canberra Electric Bike Library for an additional two years following the popularity of the program which was first launched in 2020.
The program is open for ACT residents to borrow from a range of e-bikes for up to 14 days without charge except for a small fee for insurance. The extension of the program will see more e-bikes models added to the catalogue and additional opening hours.
Since its opening, 237 e-bikes have been loaned as part of the initiative, with 86 percent of those who borrowed from the library suggesting that can see themselves buying an e-bike in the future.
The initiative is operated by SEE-Change, and its Executive Officer Brook Clinton looks forward more ACT residents discovering the benefits of electric bikes as the program continues.
“We're thrilled to be able to continue to provide bike loans and test rides on a range of electric bike models to the community,” said Clinton.
“We've seen a rising popularity for electric bikes from a wide range of people. This includes commuters but also older folks or people with disabilities as they explore the freedoms that an electric bike can provide.
“With new ‘cargo bike’ models in the library, there is even more to explore when it comes to carrying kids and groceries and generally using these bikes as a second car replacement or even your predominant form of transport around town.
“The electric bike library is a great place to start if you are wanting to get back into cycling after a few years. Starting with a motor allows you to increase your fitness to a point that you are comfortable with. Our SEE-Change staff and volunteers are here to help you understand the benefits of an electric bike and how it may fit your lifestyle.”
ACT Minister for Emissions Reduction, Shane Rattenbury said that e-bikes provided an alternate option for transport to reduce emissions.
“Transport accounts for over 60 percent of Canberra’s overall greenhouse gas emissions, so it is critical that we cut emissions from transport,” Rattenbury said.
“The Canberra Electric Bike Library encourages Canberrans to think about their travel options. No matter where you live in Canberra, you can borrow an e-bike for a week and test how it works for you when commuting, grocery shopping, or even on a school run.
“To help more Canberrans explore zero-emissions transport, we have added seven new bikes to the fleet, including an Australian made cargo trike and additional standard e-bike options.”
More information about the Canberra Electric Bike Library initiative can be found here or on the SEE-Change website.
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