E-bike operator Lime has won praise from the managers of Hampstead Heath for introducing new technology to curb irresponsible riding and the abandonment of its bicycles on the famous London green space.
New Rules for a Greener Space
The changes, which were first introduced in August 2025 following an agreement with the City of London Corporation, use geofencing to automatically control how Lime bikes function within the Heath's boundaries. This virtual perimeter now enforces three key updates.
Firstly, the popular pedal-assist feature is disabled on routes where cycling is not permitted. Secondly, even on allowed paths, the assist function is now capped at a top speed of 12 miles per hour. Thirdly, the system prevents users from ending their ride and leaving the bike within the Heath area, tackling the issue of abandoned e-bikes.
Addressing the 'Growing Pains' of a Cycling Boom
The action comes against a backdrop of record cycling levels in the capital. Recent Transport for London data revealed a sustained 'cycling boom', with daily journeys in 2025 up by 12.7% compared to 2024.
However, this surge has led to increased complaints about rider behaviour. Alderman Gregory Jones KC, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath Committee, stated they contacted Lime last year after reports of bikes being "ridden very fast, ridden in areas where cycling is not permitted and abandoned on the Heath."
He confirmed the implemented changes "have made a positive difference" and thanked the company for its cooperation.
Ongoing Efforts for Safer Cycling
In a report for an upcoming committee meeting, Bill LoSasso, Superintendent of North London Open Spaces, detailed broader plans to improve cycling conduct on the Heath. These include:
- Introducing traffic calming measures to slow cyclists down.
- Hiring three new Constables to boost enforcement.
- Engaging with other e-bike firms to replicate Lime's geofencing improvements.
Mr LoSasso noted that Lime bikes can still be used as normal, non-assisted bicycles anywhere on the Heath. A Lime spokesperson highlighted their "strong, constructive relationships" with local authorities, stating they use geofencing to create slow-speed zones in high-pedestrian areas like Hyde Park and Highbury Fields, indicated by a 'turtle' icon on the bike's dashboard.
The Corporation emphasised that while technological fixes help, they continue to urge all cyclists to be considerate of other visitors and the Heath's sensitive ecosystem, cycling responsibly and only on permitted routes.
