Safety concerns have been raised following the arrival of Lime Bikes in Solihull, with residents reporting unsafe riding and misuse.

The bikes were introduced in April 2026 and while some local residents have welcomed the scheme, others have witnessed anti-social behaviour.

Sharon Kalewski, a Knowle resident who works locally, said: "I'm concerned about age limits.

"A number of pupils from the local high school rented bikes at lunchtime and were tearing up and down the High Street.

"I was very worried that they would run into someone, there are lots of old and vulnerable people on Knowle High Street during the day and I could see a broken hip coming."

April Carpenter, a sales director, said: "I nearly got taken off my feet on the pavement last week when three teenagers came flying past."

Lime states that its bikes are intended for use by those aged 18 and over and recommends wearing a helmet.

Lime Bikes are supposed to be used for over 18s only (image by Emily Griffin)

"A friend of mine had to help an elderly woman to her car when someone on a Lime bike scared the life out of her by coming at her with speed," April added.

These concerns were echoed by Jon Yorke, a Solihull resident who said: "Kids misuse the bikes and are riding them unsafely.

"Not only this, but they seem to be abandoned all around the area."

Despite this, some residents have supported the scheme.

Katrina Parkin, a local GP and director of Greener Practice said: "I'm a big advocate of active travel for public health and environmental reasons.

"E-bikes make cycling a much more accessible option for so many people, they just need to know how to use them.

"The public ought to be educated on bike safety and with more cycling infrastructure these could be a great addition."

The introduction of Lime bikes forms part of changes to the West Midlands Cycle Hire scheme and the end of its contract with Beryl.

Docking stations have been installed across the area, including Knowle, Bentley Health, Brueton Park, and Solihull High Street and the new agreement is expected to save Transport for West Midlands £1.4m per year.

Transport for West Midlands was contacted for comment but has yet to respond.