It's a sign of summer, CURRENT e-bikes have rolled into their locations.
Current Micromobility Owner/Operator Cory Tukeli is really excited about their first full season, after approximately 1,200 rentals were logged in the three month period they were used last fall.
"We've got about 10 locations across the city," said Tukeli. "Centennial Park, Canatara Park, two locations at Lambton College, one at the residence as well, Germain Park, Clearwater Bus Terminal, Howard Watson Trail, Mike Weir Park, Kenwick Park as well, and we're adding a new location at the Suncor Nature Trail. So, we're really excited about that."
Tukeli said the fleet is a bit reduced this year after some bikes were damaged last season.
"Unfortunately we've had a number of riders -- about six or so that we have identified -- we're actually doing a bit of an investigation because they've taken them on the BMX track in Canatara Park," Tukeli said. "So, people will notice that there's a restricted area now and when people attempt to go to the BMX track, the bike will sound an alarm and the throttle will actually turn off."
Tukeli said as they "work out the kinks" in the three year pilot project, the e-bikes have also been removed from Rainbow and Tecumseh Parks after they were identified as "trouble spots".
"We have 25 [e-bikes] out right now, but we should hopefully get up to about 35 in the next couple of weeks," he said.
"They're pedal assist e-bikes. So, you're still getting your exercise. It's not as easy as just pushing a button or using a throttle to get going. You do have to pedal to get going, which is great, and they're capped at about 25 kilometres an hour as well," he said.
He recommends downloading the Ride Current app from your favourite app store first, but you can also scan the QR code on the e-bike.
"We really urge people to get familiar with the app, prior to just starting a ride,"Tukeli said. "In the menu section there is a 'My Wallet' which people can choose between paying for trips via their e-wallet, or straight from their credit card."
He said they offer day passes, a month pass and for a limited time they're offering a seasons pass.
"We're really trying to keep rates competitive and low for the community here and we really would like people to start using them more," Tukeli said.
He said CURRENT e-bikes is looking for sponsors as well this year, offering advertising opportunities on the back fender of the e-bikes.
More details can be found on their website, RideCurrent.ca
