Are you planning on exploring London on a bike? You might be wondering how much it costs to rent a bike in this bustling city.
Well, the answer is not straightforward as there are a few options available. Let’s dive into the details.
Boris Bikes
Boris Bikes, officially known as Santander Cycles, are a popular option for renting bikes in London. These bikes are available to rent from docking stations located across the city center and beyond.
Cost
The cost of renting a Boris Bike is £2 for unlimited journeys of up to 30 minutes within 24 hours. If you keep the bike for longer than 30 minutes on any one journey, additional charges apply:
- Up to 60 minutes: £2 extra
- Up to 90 minutes: £6 extra
- Up to 120 minutes: £10 extra
- Every additional 30 minutes after that: £10 extra
If you plan on using the bike for an extended period, it might be more cost-effective to opt for daily or weekly access.
Access Options
You can access Boris Bikes via:
- Credit or debit card at any docking station terminal (you will need to pay a deposit of £2 which will be refunded when you return the bike).
- Santander Cycles app (available for iOS and Android) which allows you to hire and release bikes without using the terminals and also shows availability of docking stations around you.
- A key fob which costs £3 and can be ordered online. This allows quick access without having to use your card at the terminals.
Other Bike Rental Options
Aside from Boris Bikes, there are other bike rental companies in London. These include:
- Lime – electric bikes available to rent via the Lime app.
- JUMP – electric bikes available to rent via the Uber app.
- Freebike – electric bikes available to rent via the Freebike app.
Cost
The cost of renting a bike from these companies varies but generally falls within the range of £1 to £2 per minute. Some also offer daily or weekly access options.
Access Options
Access options for these rental companies vary but generally require you to download their respective apps and register an account. Payment is usually made through the app using a credit or debit card.
In Conclusion
Renting a bike in London can be an affordable and convenient way to explore this great city. The cost of renting a bike varies depending on the rental company and the duration of use. If you plan on using a bike regularly during your stay, it might be more cost-effective to opt for daily or weekly access options instead of paying per ride.
Whatever your choice, make sure you stay safe on the roads by wearing a helmet and following traffic rules!