Introducing App-Bike: Biggleswade’s new cycle hire scheme
Monday, 3 July 2023
A new cycle hire scheme comes to Biggleswade. Five docking stations will be provided at locations throughout the town. Bikes will be hired by downloading user-friendly app on smartphone.
Residents will soon be able to explore Biggleswade in a whole new way! We're delighted to announce the launch of a cycle hire scheme for residents of Biggleswade in partnership with Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity (BedsRCC) and cycle hire company App-Bike. The 12-month pilot scheme, which launches on Friday 7 July, is funded from contributions secured from a local development and BedsRCC.
There will be 12 bicycles docked at strategic locations throughout Biggleswade which will be available for residents to hire at any time, making it easier than ever to hop on a bike and explore. Each bicycle provides a comfortable ride experience, with features that include three-speed internal gearing, dynamo lighting, internal braking system, front carrier (for loads of up to 5kg), puncture resistant tyres and an enclosed chain guard system.
The pilot scheme offers residents access to a low-cost sustainable transport option with users being able to choose from a pay as you go tariff (with hire available at £1.50 per hour), or a £5 monthly membership offering two hours free hire each day, then £1 per hour thereafter.
Councillor Tracey Wye, our Executive Member for Sustainability and Climate Resilience, said:
The App-Bike scheme opens up cycling to Biggleswade residents, especially those who may not have a bicycle or might not think cycling is for them.
By hiring a bike from convenient locations, it gives people the opportunity to make short journeys cleanly and sustainably and enjoy the many health-boosting benefits.
They might even decide cycling is more fun than walking, waiting for a bus or driving, especially to the retail park where parking can be a real problem at busy times!
Launching the scheme in Biggleswade builds neatly on local cycling history; champion rider and bicycle entrepreneur Dan Albone started his Ivel Cycle Works in town over 140 years ago.
Cliff Andrews, BedsRCC Deputy CEO, said:
We are excited to be part of this project which is a great addition to the town. This project is an extension of our work in creating the Biggleswade Green Wheel and we are so pleased to now be able to provide a way for more people enjoy it and to benefit their physical and mental wellbeing.
Visit App-Bike's website to get the app for your phone. Once installed, you'll be able to create an account, locate the docking stations to check availability and unlock a bike, either by scanning a QR code on the bike or selecting the bike in the app.