Bolt Expands London E-Bike Network as a Result of Transport Strikes

Bolt is expanding its e-bike network across central and west London in anticipation of a fresh wave of Tube and bus strikes, as the company seeks to ease pressure on the capital’s transport system.

The ride-hailing firm confirmed that its e-bikes are now available in Westminster and Hammersmith & Fulham, adding to existing operations in Kensington & Chelsea. The move significantly broadens coverage across key commuter routes at a time when disruption is expected to intensify.

Transport for London has warned of “significant disruption” across multiple Underground lines, with six days of industrial action scheduled to begin next week. The strikes are expected to impact services across April, May and June, prompting operators to position alternative travel options more prominently.

Bolt said demand for its e-bikes has already demonstrated strong growth during previous strike periods. During industrial action in September 2025, usage of its bikes rose by 685 per cent, underlining the role micromobility can play during network disruption.

Giulio del Balzo, senior public policy manager at Bolt, highlighted the growing importance of e-bikes within the capital’s transport mix. He noted that while cycling has become increasingly popular, systems must balance the needs of riders, pedestrians, councils and local communities.

Alongside its expansion, Bolt is promoting its pricing model as a safety measure. The company is currently the only e-bike operator in London charging per mile rather than per minute, a structure it says removes the incentive for riders to rush journeys. Internal data suggests this approach results in riders travelling around nine per cent slower on average.

The rollout also introduces stricter parking controls aimed at addressing concerns over pavement clutter. Users will be required to end journeys in designated parking bays, with AI-powered photo verification used to ensure compliance. Riders who fail to follow the rules risk fines and reduced in-app ratings.

Bolt is also sharing live operational data with local councils, providing real-time insights into bike locations and usage patterns to support local management and planning.

The expansion comes amid increasing competition in London’s e-bike market. Earlier this year, the company raised concerns about rival operators allegedly moving its bikes out of designated bays, leading to fines and impoundments.

Despite these tensions, Bolt is betting on continued growth in demand. Research commissioned by the company suggests e-bikes are already helping to reduce pressure on public transport, freeing up an estimated 577,500 spaces each week. More than half of users reported that they would otherwise have taken the Tube, bus or train.

Bolt launched its London e-bike service in August 2025 and has since expanded rapidly, alongside similar schemes in other UK cities including Liverpool.