PRIME The Sh60 at the centre of Bolt’s petrol-vs-electric boda boda storm 01.06.2026

Electric motorcycle riders on the Bolt platform in Nairobi are protesting a recent fare revision that has significantly reduced their daily earnings. An 18-kilometer ride now costs Sh60 less on an e-bike compared to a petrol motorcycle. Bolt states this adjustment aligns electric vehicle (EV) pricing below internal combustion engine (ICE) bikes to reflect their lower running costs, correcting a historical anomaly where EVs were priced higher. However, riders like Job and Otieno report their take-home pay has nearly halved, making daily loan repayments unsustainable and impacting their livelihoods. Despite Bolt maintaining its 18 percent commission, the reduced fares mean less income, creating tension between EV and petrol bike riders and drawing potential government intervention in ride-hailing pricing regulations.













