Lime has introduced a new type of scooter to its Seattle fleet: the Glider sit-down scooter. Just before the official rollout of 280 Gliders in the U District for a trial period, we got a chance to test ride this novel device. These Glider scooters are available anywhere within Lime’s Seattle service area and priced the same as their standard bikes and scooters. Lime will manage their distribution, primarily focusing on the U District during this initial trial.
Seattle is currently the exclusive city to experience the Gliders. Lime representatives highlighted Seattle’s strong ridership and the city’s Department of Transportation (SDOT) as reasons for this choice. Hayden Harvey, Director of Government Relations at Lime, praised SDOT as “a well-grounded regulator” that is both “honest” and “collaborative in innovating in this industry.”
Lime is marketing the Glider scooter as an accessible and comfortable option for riders. Its step-over height is even lower than Lime bikes, and riders can confidently place their feet on the ground before starting to move. Similar to a bicycle, the Glider’s center of balance is positioned further back compared to stand-up scooters, which reduces the likelihood of falling forward. However, it’s not a bicycle, which could broaden its appeal to individuals who find traditional cycling daunting. This is precisely what Lime hopes to achieve.
Legally, the Glider is classified as a scooter and must adhere to scooter regulations. In Seattle, this means sidewalk riding is prohibited “unless there is no alternative for a motorized foot scooter to travel over a sidewalk that is part of a bicycle or pedestrian path.” Glider scooters are permitted on roads, bike lanes, and paved multi-use trails. While officially intended for single riders only, the elongated seat might tempt some to ride tandem.
The Glider is capable of climbing hills, though it encounters challenges on very steep inclines. During testing, the notoriously steep Cherry Street block between 4th and 5th Avenues served as a proving ground. The Glider barely managed to ascend, slowing to just 4 mph using motor power alone, requiring a foot push for assistance. However, on flat surfaces and typical hills, the ride was swift and effortless.
Having tested various devices from all scooter and bike share companies in Seattle, the Glider most closely resembles the Veo Cosmo pseudo-bike. Like the Cosmo, the Glider features a non-adjustable seat height, which can affect rider experience depending on height. Taller riders may find themselves in a more reclined position. Key differences include the Cosmo’s pedals (largely ineffective but present) and front suspension. The Cosmo also allowed for standing on the pedals while riding, whereas the Glider is clearly designed for seated operation.
Whether these design elements are advantages or disadvantages is subjective. Personally, an upright bicycle posture is preferable, but as a daily cyclist and cycling blogger, this preference might not reflect the broader public. Pre-existing lower back issues made the Glider’s reclined position somewhat uncomfortable over bumps. However, this is a personal experience, and comfort levels will vary.
For many, the Glider could be perfectly comfortable, and the fixed seat height offers the convenience of one less adjustment before riding. Individuals with certain joint pain might also appreciate the absence of pedals. It’s worth noting that Lime’s newest e-bike models now include a throttle and can also be ridden without pedaling if desired, offering an alternative for those seeking pedal-free riding.
Lime has seen remarkable growth in Seattle this year, breaking ridership records, introducing improved devices, and lowering prices with schemes like LimePass. It remains to be seen if the Glider sit-down scooter will attract an even wider audience beyond those already using stand-up scooters and bikes. Lime’s Seattle ridership is substantial, positioning them as a significant transportation option alongside major infrastructure projects. In July, Lime trips were half the number of trips through the $2 billion SR-99 tunnel, a figure unimaginable just a few years ago. The expansion of protected bike lanes in Seattle’s city center is fueling this growth.
These increases are occurring even before the downtown waterfront bike path opens, expected later this year. This path is poised to become one of the city’s most popular cycling routes, and Lime is set to facilitate a significant portion of those journeys, further solidifying its role in Seattle’s evolving transportation landscape with innovative options like the Glider scooter.
