Santander Rolls Out 500 New E-bikes in London

Just when you thought people were sick and tired of all the abandoned e-bikes in London the Santander Group rolls out 500 docked e-bikes and over 800 e-bike stations. While it is true that abandoned e-bikes have been causing issues for some blind people, these are docked and have to be returned to their docks in order for the person not to be charged, so it should cover the issue of people leaving them everywhere.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said “The new e-bikes have an important role to play in breaking down some of the barriers that prevent Londoners from getting on a bike, whether that be fitness, age or length of journey, I’m determined to make cycling as accessible as possible as we continue building a safer, greener, more prosperous London for everyone.”

So who are they for and how much do they cost? These e-bikes can be ridden for up to 60 minutes (per day) for an annual or monthly membership of £120. They are located just outside most terminals and main bus stations for an easier commute for work.

What is also interesting is that Blaze Laserlights have been fitted to these Santander Cycles to help to make riders more visible and increase their confidence on the roads. The laserlight is fixed to the bicycle frame and projects a green bike-shaped image onto the ground around 6 metres ahead. The light can be seen from nearly all angles, helping make drivers and pedestrians aware of any approaching Santander Cycles – otherwise, they might be unseen, for example when they are in a vehicle’s blind spot. This way you get to enjoy 60 minutes of interrupted e-bike riding with laser lights!

If you have used one of these Santander e-bikes or have an opinion on it do let us know in the comments below.