It all started in Greensboro. That's where, in June of 2017, LimeBike made its national public debut on the campus of UNCG. Now, five months and tens of thousands of pedaled miles later, the company that's revolutionizing last-mile transportation in the US has arrived on the streets of North Carolina's largest city.

Charlotte, ladies and gentlemen, has officially gone dockless.

It’s a particularly exciting step for an area that, just last year, was the subject of a sobering report highlighting its lack of innovation initiatives. As one of the fastest-growing tech startups in the US, LimeBike brings with it a pioneering approach to urban mobility - one that will serve to promote local commerce and small business all while providing Queen City residents with a fun, healthy, and affordable transportation alternative.

“As the bicycle advocacy organization in Charlotte, we welcome the expansion of transportation choices in our city,” says Kate Cavazza, bike program manager at Sustain Charlotte. “We support all efforts to get more people of all ages and cycling abilities on bikes!”

With a thriving arts and entertainment district (NoDa), dozens of city parks, and more than 10 major and minor league sports teams to root for, Charlotte’s 800k residents certainly won’t have a hard time finding an excuse to go for a ride. LimeBike costs just $1 for every 30 minutes of service ($.50 for students), and can be picked up and dropped off anywhere bikes are legally allowed to park.

To make things even more appealing, the US dockless bike sharing leader is offering the first 5 rides completely free of charge. Residents are encouraged to stop by LimeBike’s Freedom Park community launch celebration from 12-1 pm on Thursday, November 9th to give the system a try for themselves.

“We’re thrilled to launch in Charlotte,” says Sidney McLaurin, LimeBike’s GM of North Carolina. “Whether heading to watch the Panthers play, grabbing a bite to eat in uptown, or spending a day in Freedom Park, locals and visitors will now be able to rely on LimeBike as their sustainable, convenient transportation option.”

The company will also be working hand in hand the the Charlotte DOT to provide valuable data and insight into the city’s cycling usage patterns. Similar information is already being used in places like Seattle to inform infrastructure enhancements and improve on-street safety for both cyclists and motorists.

“We look forward to seeing all the ways we can continue to work together with Charlotte and other neighboring cities to improve urban mobility and transportation for all of North Carolina,” says Sidney.

LimeBike's Charlotte launch comes just days after the company became the first dockless bike share to enter Los Angeles. To see if dockless bike sharing is a good fit for your city, send us an email at[email protected].