Hundreds of electric bikes were left abandoned across Sydney following the City2Surf fun run, prompting frustration from residents who complained about blocked streets and bus stops. Lime, the operator of the bikes, had offered free rides for participants from the central business district to Bondi Beach, an event that typically draws over 85,000 runners.
More than 10,000 trips were recorded on Lime bikes in the vicinity of the race route. However, a significant number of riders reportedly discarded the bikes on pedestrian paths and roads, actions that were documented on social media and led to widespread complaints.
Photos shared online showed numerous bikes obstructing footpaths, including at William Street in the city center and Oxford Street in Darlinghurst, both areas near the race's starting point. Videos also captured pavements covered with bikes near Central Station.
These incidents have reignited a debate about the regulation of bike-sharing services and the responsibilities of both Lime and the New South Wales government. The Pedestrian Council of Australia chief executive, Harold Scruby, highlighted the safety risks posed by bikes left on pedestrian spaces, particularly for individuals with visual impairments. "It's a human right to be able to walk safely on Sydney's streets. The whole thing is just out of control," Scruby stated, criticizing the company for what he described as "invading" footpaths.
This is not the first time Lime bikes have drawn criticism in Sydney. In April, when the bikes were rolled out across the Northern Beaches, council rangers began issuing notices to Lime by June for bikes parked in unsafe locations, with the council adopting a stricter approach. Former prime minister Tony Abbott also publicly criticized the situation in June, sharing a photo of overturned bikes on pavements and urging local and state governments to address the issue of "street junk."
A spokesperson for Lime acknowledged the residents' concerns and stated that the company had deployed double its usual weekend patrol team to reposition bikes and respond to reports during the event. "We hear the concerns raised by residents this week, and we're committed to making sure shared transport works for riders and for the communities sharing the streets around them," the spokesperson said.
The company also detailed measures in place to prevent safety hazards, including a requirement for riders to park vehicles appropriately. An AI-enabled tool scans images of parked vehicles for verification before a ride can be ended, and riders who repeatedly mispark face escalating penalties, including fines, suspension, and expulsion from the platform.
NSW authorities have advised residents to check the bike app for parking rules and to contact their local council if a bike presents a serious hazard.