Lime, a leading name in micromobility, has just rolled out a brand new type of vehicle in Seattle: the Glider, a sit down scooter that’s being touted as a more approachable and comfortable alternative for city riders. With 280 of these innovative devices hitting the streets of the U District for a trial period, could this be the “Sit Down Bike” that finally bridges the gap between scooters and bicycles for everyday commuters?
Seattle is currently the exclusive city to experience the Gliders, a decision Lime attributes to the city’s robust ridership and the Seattle Department of Transportation’s (SDOT) progressive regulatory environment. According to Lime’s Director of Government Relations, Hayden Harvey, Seattle’s regulators are both “honest” and “collaborative in innovating in this industry.”
Lime is strategically positioning the Glider as a user-friendly option, emphasizing its enhanced comfort and ease of use. The step-over height is notably lower than Lime’s standard bikes, allowing riders to confidently place their feet on the ground before setting off. Similar to a traditional bicycle, the Glider’s center of balance is positioned further back compared to stand-up scooters. This design significantly reduces the risk of forward falls, a common concern for scooter novices. Yet, crucially, it’s not a bicycle, aiming to appeal to individuals who might find cycling too daunting or strenuous. This “sit down bike” design is specifically intended to broaden the appeal of micromobility options.
Legally categorized as a scooter, the Lime Glider must adhere to Seattle’s scooter regulations. This means sidewalk riding is prohibited unless absolutely necessary on pedestrian or bicycle paths. However, riders can freely utilize roads, designated bike lanes, and paved multi-use trails. While designed for single riders, the extended seat does raise questions about potential (though technically against the rules) tandem attempts.
Performance-wise, the Glider demonstrates hill-climbing capability, though truly steep inclines present a challenge. During a test on a notoriously steep section of Cherry Street, the Glider slowed to a mere 4 mph, requiring a foot push for assistance. However, on flatter terrain and typical city hills, the “sit down bike” proved to be swift and enjoyable to operate.
For those familiar with the diverse landscape of shared mobility devices in Seattle, the Lime Glider bears a strong resemblance to the Veo Cosmo pseudo-bike. Like the Cosmo, the Glider features a non-adjustable seat height, which may lead to varying rider experiences based on height. Taller individuals might find themselves in a more reclined posture. Key distinctions from the Cosmo include the Glider’s lack of pedals (the Cosmo’s were largely symbolic) and front suspension. While standing on the Cosmo’s pedals was feasible, the Glider is clearly designed for seated riding, reinforcing its “sit down bike” identity.
Whether these design choices are advantageous is subjective. While an upright bicycle posture might be preferable for seasoned cyclists, the Glider’s design prioritizes accessibility and ease. The inability to adjust saddle height simplifies the pre-ride process, and the seated, non-pedaling nature could be particularly appealing to individuals with joint pain. It’s worth noting that Lime’s latest e-bike models also incorporate a throttle and can be ridden without pedaling, suggesting a broader trend towards user-friendly, less physically demanding designs in micromobility.
Lime has experienced remarkable growth in Seattle this year, breaking ridership records, introducing advanced vehicles, and making their services more affordable with the LimePass. The question now is whether the Glider, this novel “sit down bike,” can attract an even wider audience beyond traditional scooter and bike users. Lime’s current ridership figures are already substantial, positioning them as a significant player in Seattle’s transportation ecosystem, comparable to major infrastructure projects. Remarkably, Lime’s July ridership was half that of the $2 billion SR-99 tunnel, a testament to the growing adoption of micromobility in the city. This surge in usage is happening as Seattle expands its network of protected bike lanes, particularly in the urban core, making cycling and scooter riding safer and more appealing.
Adding to this positive trajectory, the upcoming downtown waterfront bike path, slated to open later this year, promises to become a premier cycling route in Seattle. Lime is well-positioned to capture a significant portion of the trips on this new path, further solidifying the role of “sit down bikes” and similar micromobility solutions in the city’s transportation future. The Lime Glider represents an interesting evolution in urban transportation, potentially making personal mobility more accessible and comfortable for a broader spectrum of people.
