Raleigh's New Dockless Bikeshare Pilot: How to Ride, Park, and Save

We're teaming up with Spin and Lime to roll out up to 215 electric-assist bikes in and around downtown Raleigh.

This pilot begins Monday, August 18 and runs through April 2026 and will test a more flexible bikeshare model based on national best practices and feedback from Raleigh residents.

The goal? Make it easier than ever to grab a bike, ride where you need, and park it without being tied to a docking station-all while keeping our sidewalks and streets safe and accessible.

How can I rent a bike?

It's easy!

1. Download the Lime app (green/white bikes & scooters) or the Spin app (orange/black bikes & scooters).
2. Use the app to find and unlock a bike or scooter near you.
3. Ride and enjoy!

Note: There's currently no way to rent a bike or create an account other than through the app.

What do I need to do before my first ride?

Before you start riding:

• Create an account in the app
• Add your payment info
• Pass the in-app safety quiz!

How much does it cost to ride? Are there discounts?

Lime

• Scooters: $1 to unlock + $0.41 per minute
• E-bikes: $2 for the first 10 minutes, then $0.20 per minute
• Launch promo: 30 minutes free on your first Lime e-bike ride during August!

Spin

• Launch promo: E-bikes: $5 for 30 minutes for first 30 days!
• Scooters: $1 to unlock + $0.41 per minute

Where can I park my bike?

You can park in:

• A micromobility corral (look for a "P" sign with a bike/scooter symbol - currently located along Glenwood South Avenue)
• On the planting strip (grassy area between street and sidewalk)
• On the sidewalk, as long as at least 4 feet of space is left for people to pass
• On private property (with the owner's permission)

Don't park:

• In the middle of the sidewalk without leaving 4 feet clearance
• In front of doors, ADA ramps, or pedestrian buttons
• In bike lanes or on greenways

Micromobility corrals are special parking zones for bikes/scooters-often in spots where cars can't park. You can find some "P" parking pins in the Lime and Spin apps, though not all pins are official corrals. More corrals are coming to Raleigh in the next year.

What if there is no corral nearby?

No problem! Outside of Glenwood South, you can park anywhere, as long as you are in compliance with existing parking rules.

• Don't block sidewalks, ADA ramps, or private property without permission
• Avoid no-ride and no-park zones-your app will warn you if you're in one

All scooters and e-bikes are equipped with GPS technology, enabling real-time tracking at all times. At the end of each trip, riders must submit a photo to confirm the vehicle has been parked correctly.

How does the City keep sidewalks clear?

We use the Ask Raleigh tool to track and respond to parking issues:

1. Visit ask.raleighnc.gov/ask
2. Click View the Service Catalog → Transportation & Mobility → Bikes & Scooters
3. Submit your report

Operators are notified immediately and must respond quickly.
Parking policy:

• 1st & 2nd violations = warnings
• 3rd & 4th = $15 fines
• Continued violations = account review/suspension

You can also report parking issues by emailing: [email protected].

Any upcoming training events for new riders?

Yes! The City will host free Learn-to-Ride events this summer and fall.
Follow @RaleighTranspo on social media for updates.

Any information on safety and rules?

• Helmets: Highly recommended, not provided
• Age requirement: 18+ to ride shared e-bikes/scooters
• Throttle feature: Bikes have a throttle-press to go up to 15 mph without pedaling (you can still pedal if you want!)

Check out Lime's Safety Info page!

What happens after the pilot?

The pilot runs through Spring 2026. The City will use feedback and data to design a new, long-term bikeshare system, launching Summer 2026.