by Claire O’Brien news@limerickpost.ie
THE “Coca-Cola Zero Bike” scheme was revealed in Cork’s city hall this morning.The scheme is set to launch to the public in Limerick this autumn.
Minister Alan Kelly TD attended the unveiling of the new,specially designed bikes for the regional cities,that feature a distinctive black design with bright red accents.
The bikes have built-in-gear-shifting technology,a feature that enables automatic gear-changes and is unique amongst bike schemes world-wide. There will be 215 bikes in Limerick,with 23 bike stations and 445 bike stands.
The last census showed that 200,000 people travel by car less than four km per day. In response to the scheme, Minister Kelly said that “We are becoming a nation of cyclists.Having bike-rental schemes will do more to improve and promote cycling culture across the county than any other initiative”.
The National Transport Authority designed the schemes and Rothar Nua will install and operate the bike scheme.
Hugh Creegan, Director of Transport Investment for the National Transport authority said “we are delighted to see these new bikes coming into production.He added that “With our partners in the local authorities we are confident that the schemes will be very successful-with locals and visitors alike-when they are launched later this year”.
Cork,Galway and Limerick were considered suitable for the scheme based on their size and status. Depending on the success of the scheme, additional schemes may be implemented in other cities and locations.
