Choosing to ride a share bike is a great way to move. Here are some steps to help ensure you have a good ride.
You’ll have to sign up to an app to unlock the bike, and it will require credit-card details to deduct payment.
We recommend reading the fine-print to understand your responsibilities as a user, what to do if something goes wrong and what you’re covered for.
- Look at the bike and check it has a helmet for you to use and that it looks to be in good repair
- Unlock the bike check the brakes work by walking beside the bike and testing them – don’t get on unless the brakes work properly
- Check the bell and lights work
- Adjust the seat to your preferred height
- Put your helmet on
- If you are navigating using your phone, set the mapping directions before you begin riding, then put the phone in your pocket or use a handlebar mount so you don’t have to touch it while you ride
- Get pedaling and be sure to obey the road rules
Bicycle NSW has prepared resources to help all road users understand the rules about bike riding. Failing to follow these laws or the road rules raises the risk of accident or injury, and could result in a big fine.
“Share bikes provide more opportunities to include bike riding in your day or to get back on the bike when you haven’t ridden for a while. We know these bikes are well-used and can offer a last mile solution that reduces the need for cars,” said General Manager of Public Affairs, Bastien Wallace.
As part of their app explanations about bike use, share bike operators explain the correct places for users to leave bikes at the end of their ride, and how to report problems. You may find there are incentives for leaving the bike in certain places, or penalties if you leave it in the wrong place.
Reporting a bike that’s broken or in a dangerous place isn’t limited to users with the app.
You can call 1800 861 305 to report a problem with a Lime Bike, 1800 559 213 to report problems with a MoBike, 0481 352 096 with a Bykko bike.
