Citi Bike Users Face Higher Costs and Slower Speeds Under New E-Bike Regulations
A recent speed cap on e-bikes has led to increased ride times and costs for Citi Bike members, prompting accusations of a 'hidden tax'.
Citi Bike riders in New York City are experiencing longer commutes and increased costs following the implementation of a new 15 mph speed limit for e-bikes. The regulation, announced by then-Mayor Eric Adams in October, applies to all city streets and park pathways.
Citi Bike, owned by Lyft, charges members 27 cents per minute for e-bike rides. The reduced speed means that slower trips now equate to higher overall costs. Andrew Kam, a frequent Citi Bike user, told Gothamist that the slower speeds effectively increase the price of rides. He calculated that a 6-mile trip, which previously took approximately 20 minutes and cost at least $5.40, now takes about 24 minutes at the slower 15 mph speed limit, costing $6.48.
"It's inconvenient to go slower, so they're charging more and it's a lesser service," Kam stated, referring to the change as a "hidden tax" on users. He noted that many riders may not even realize the speed has decreased, attributing the longer times and higher costs to the new regulation.
Records indicate that this speed reduction has coincided with increased profits for Citi Bike. The company reported a profit of $24.7 million in 2025, a significant rise from $6.8 million in 2024. Ridership also reached historic highs during this period.
First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro had previously described Citi Bike e-bikes as an "emergency threat to life and property" when advocating for the speed cap. This stance followed an incident where a 3-year-old girl was struck by an e-bike rider, although the incident did not involve a Citi Bike. Following the incident, Mayor Adams ordered the removal of a portion of a protected bike lane on Bedford Avenue, where the child was hit.
The new speed limit and associated cost increases are drawing criticism from New York City bikers. Some city council members and advocates are reportedly working to cap e-bike rides for members at $3. Until then, riders must adjust to the slower speeds and higher charges.
