Image: Randwick City Council
Sydney’s Randwick City Council has joined the ranks of the City of Sydney and Waverly Council in operating an electric bike pool to complement its existing fleet of regular bikes and vehicles.
The council has procured two electric bikes to its fleet, which are useful in navigating the hilly topography of the Randwick municipal area.
The addition of these electric bikes into the council’s fleet, which includes two existing regular commuter bikes, is a part of its commitment to sustainability and conservation, as well as offering a healthy and cost effective mode of transport for staff travelling short distances for work-related trips.
According to the council, the electric bikes were supplied by Omafiets at $3,817 each through a three quote procedure in accordance with council’s procurement policy.
Mayor of Randwick Noel D’Souza said electric bikes help reduce council’s environmental footprint, taking cars off the road and promoting good health and wellbeing for staff.
“These bikes are perfect for short trips where staff would normally drive from site to site,” Mr D’Souza said.
“It’s wonderful to think you can get a burst of fresh air and exercise in between work engagements plus, you don’t have to worry about traffic congestion or parking.”
“Furthermore,” he said, “these bikes are aligned with our commitment to sustainability, helping to reduce our environmental impact, save money and give staff a chance to experience Randwick City from a different perspective”.
You might be wondering what kind of maintenance these bikes require compared to their traditional counterparts, which ordinarily need a regular but relatively easy tune-up by pumping the tires with air and lubricating the chain.
According to the council, the money spent on the electric bikes includes accessories and two years of maintenance which involves standard on site servicing every six months.
“Staff are also asked to report any maintenance issues to the bike pool coordinator,” a Randwick City Council spokesperson said.
