Neuron launches 50 e-bikes in Hamilton

Neuron has begun rolling out 50 e-bikes across Hamilton Central and surrounding areas.

Riders can choose between an e-scooter or an e-bike for the same price depending on their preference and type of journey, with Neuron Passes also covering both modes.

E-bikes include cutting-edge safety features brought over from e-scooters: integrated helmets, geofencing control, an emergency button, voice guidance, topple detection and ‘Follow my Ride’ functions.

The pedal-assisted e-bikes may be preferred over e-scooters for longer journeys as riders are able to travel using dedicated bike lanes and low speed roads.

The introduction of e-bikes will also provide riders with greater access to sustainable transport options, reducing the reliance on cars for short journeys, Neuron says.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Hamilton City Council to launch our new e-bike programme,” Neuron Mobility NZ regional manager Adam Muirson says.

“We hope the introduction of e-bikes will make micromobility even more accessible to residents and tourists in Hamilton. They will provide another sustainable mode of transport, making them a great alternative to short car trips.”

Hamilton City Council infrastructure operations general manager Eeva-Liisa Wright is upbeat about the addition to the city’s streets.

“We have had transport devices available for hire over two years now in Hamilton, and both scooters and bikes have become a popular alternative form of transport for Hamiltonians and visitors alike,” she says.

“E-bikes are expensive to purchase outright. This service provides access to those devices and can be a great alternative to ownership.

“We are continuing to develop our transport network to improve safety and access for those who choose to walk, cycle, skate and scooter in Hamilton.”

The e-bikes include an app-controlled helmet lock that secures a safety helmet to the e-bike between trips; and a topple detection feature that can detect if an e-bike has been left on its side which then alerts an operations team to reposition it safely.

Other innovations include a 111-emergency button which can tell if someone has had a fall and helps the rider call emergency services. Voice guidance will be fitted to educate and warn riders of how to ride safely.

The e-bikes will also feature a ‘Follow My Ride’ function that allows riders to share their trip with friends and family in real time, for added safety and peace of mind.

Riders will be able to book and use the e-bikes through Neuron’s app which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play and set up in minutes.

Single trips will cost $1 to unlock the e-bike and 45 cents per minute thereafter. More frequent users have the option to purchase Neuron Passes, a subscription service valid for both e-bikes and e-scooters available in daily ($9.99) three-day ($14.99), weekly ($19.99), or monthly ($45) options. The packages will allow users to ride as many times as they want for up to 90 minutes per day for a fixed affordable price.