Bolt and Laois County Council have teamed up to launch Bolt e-bikes in Portlaoise.

E-bikes provide cyclists with a safe, sustainable, and cost-effective way to move around. They’re an essential part of Bolt’s aim to reduce the number of private cars in cities and towns by offering alternative transport methods.

Available 24/7, and with a charge of €0.18 per minute (and an unlock fee of €0.20 after the first 2 months), holidaymakers and commuters will be able to pick up and park e-bikes at 40+ locations across Portlaoise, including the train station and town centre.

Portlaoise joins a roster of towns across Ireland where Bolt already operates e-bike services, including Bray, Kilkenny, Carlow, Sligo, Dun Laoghaire, and Wexford.

Aisling Dunne, Bolt’s Head of Public Policy for Ireland, highlighted the transformative impact of e-bikes on urban mobility: “E-bikes are enhancing urban areas by improving connectivity, reducing vehicle traffic, and supporting local businesses. Our e-bikes in Portlaoise prioritise functionality, convenience, and safety, promoting affordable and sustainable travel options while encouraging a shift away from private car usage.”

Cllr. Wille Aird, Cathaoirleach of the Portlaoise Municipal District Committee Laois County Council, expressed optimism about the program’s benefits: “We anticipate that E-bikes will foster a connected community in Portlaoise and serve as an environmentally friendly alternative to private cars. We look forward to witnessing their positive impact for residents, visitors, and local businesses.”

How to use a Bolt e-bike

To rent a Bolt e-bike, you’ll need the Bolt app and a payment card tied to your account.

Open the app and tap the e-bike icon in the top-right corner;
Carefully read the safety tips;
Scan an e-bike’s QR code or enter the e-bike’s ID manually to unlock it;
You’re ready to go!

Safety toolkit and beginner mode

Whether you’re new to cycling or a regular cyclist, we always encourage you to follow our safety tips when hitting the road.

Firstly, we strongly recommend wearing a helmet during your journey.

Bolt e-bikes are equipped with a functional dashboard that provides information about speed and battery level. If you’re on a long journey, make sure to check the battery range and be mindful of your speed.

Beginner Mode

For those with no or little e-bike experience, Beginner Mode limits your maximum speed to 15 km/h (down from the usual 25 km/h).

In-app cognitive reaction test

Between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., you might be required to pass an in-app cognitive reaction test to ensure you’re fit to cycle. The test is an added safety layer designed to protect cyclists and pedestrians.

Read more safety tips here.

Bolt in Ireland

Bolt offers taxis on demand in Dublin and Cork and shared electric bike rental in Sligo, Kilkenny, Wexford, Bray, and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.

Download the app and start cycling today — it’s really that simple!

Bolt e-bikes now available in Portlaoise

Rent an e-bike! Choose Bolt!

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