Why do Lime bikes click?

"If you've ever heard a Lime bike making a repeated clicking sound while someone pushes or pedals it, you might be witnessing something more than just a noisy ride it could be a sign of theft or tampering. The clicking indicates that the bike is being used without being properly unlocked. In other words, someone has managed to ride it without making a payment."

"Lime bikes are designed with smart security features that resist unauthorised use, and one of the key indicators that something's wrong is that distinct clicking sound coming from the rear wheel. Reddit threads and TikToks demonstrate how some people simply jump on and cycle away after lifting the back wheel and pushing it to fool the system. When the bike isn't unlocked properly through the app, the rear wheel is still locked."

Lime bikes in London commonly emit a repeated clicking noise when pushed or pedalled while not properly unlocked. The clicking comes from the rear-wheel locking mechanism slipping when someone forces the bike to move without an app unlock, allowing unauthorised rides and unpaid use. Some people exploit this by lifting the back wheel and pushing to fool the system. The click functions as a passive deterrent by drawing attention to tampering. Users can report suspicious or stolen bikes through the Lime app by choosing Help > Report an Issue and providing vehicle ID, location, and a brief description. Active crimes should be reported to police or local authorities.

Read at www.standard.co.uk