It is with heavy emotions that we report on Tuesday, August 26, at approximately 3:00 AM, the storage and service facility for the South-Central Power Up! (SCPU) E-Bike Lending Library was broken into. During the break-in, approximately 60 bikes from our 250 bike fleet, along with a pallet of locks and chargers, were stolen. The facility also sustained significant property damage. The total loss is estimated at over $175,000, including bikes, chargers, and locks.

We will not allow this unfortunate incident to hinder our community from receiving the clean mobility resources it rightfully deserves. The program will continue with the remaining numbers in our current fleet, and will continue to work toward adding to the fleet in 2026! South Central Power Up will Power On! Stay tuned for details on upcoming training and opportunities to check out an e-bike for FREE!  Register at southcentralpowerup.com to be eligible to receive a bike. Despite this theft, we're not stopping.

Program Background and Community Value

The South Central Power Up (SCPU) E-Bike Lending Library is the first free e-bike lending initiative of its kind in South Central Los Angeles, created to provide residents with a sustainable, reliable, and cost-free transportation option. The program was designed with the community's needs at its core, ensuring that South Central residents have equitable access to sustainable transportation. The program empowers residents to commute to work, attend school, run errands, and reach essential services—all while reducing reliance on gas-powered vehicles and supporting environmental health.

Over the past two years, seven community partners—RIDE ON!, RIDEWITUS LA Bike Store, Labor Community Strategy Center, TRUST South LA, Esperanza, SCOPE, and Village Marketplace—have collaborated to build and sustain this program.

What Now?

We are asking the South LA community to help us recover from this setback. DO NOT PURCHASE THESE E-BIKES. WE RENT THEM FOR FREE, provide free maintenance for the bikes and free bike training, don’t let these thieves steal your money when you can sign up for the program for free. If you see or hear of stolen e-bikes being sold, please do not attempt to retrieve them yourself. Instead, share any tips, photos, sale listings, or other information with us by DM at @sc_powerup or email at southcentralpowerup@gmail.com.

Although the LAPD has not provided assistance, we believe in the strength and solidarity of our community. With your support, we can work toward restoring this vital resource.