fedward 
Today in active hazards, of four Lime bikes I have seen three have had obvious, potentially dangerous maintenance issues: one with a tire so worn the center of the tread was not just bald but yellow; one with the chain dangling from the derailer; one with a broken front brake rotor dangling. Do they not have maintenance people in DC?
Sep 20, 2025 at 11:38pmWeb
Show threadgenehackSep 21, 2025

@fedward in Seattle, most of their bikes have been replaced with non-pedal versions — purely electric, no rider effort required.

Previously, I hadn’t considered the maintenance angle as a reason for the switch.

Show threadfedward Sep 21, 2025
@genehack I have really mixed feelings. I’m glad the “bikes” mean fewer people in cars, but it’s annoying to pass somebody going uphill (where gearing and practice help) only to have them pass me on the flat (where they can go 20 MPH with the press of a throttle). (Plus, repeat the experience if they’re going the same way I am for long enough). Respect to the occasional person pedaling like mad and passing me going uphill, though. I can’t maintain that cadence.

But also, bald tires are dangerous on any “bike,” electric or acoustic.