Spring is coming, and what is better than visiting Madrid with a bicycle?
Since June 2014, almost two years ago, Madrid has become the first capital of Europe using electric bikes.
“BiciMad” covers central districts:
Arganzuela, Retiro, Moncloa-Aravaca, Chamberí, Cuzco, Madrid River to Principe Pio. About 300 meters are separating a collection point from another. On the website of BiciMad you can fin dan activated a map indicating real-time how many bikes and there anchors available. Today there are more than 1,500 bicycles available in Madrid.
How does it work?
You can buy the subscription to use this service on the website of Bicimad: http://u.bicimad.com/inscribete
The cost is 25 € per year (only 15 € if you already have a public transport pass, which is very affordable). You can also rent bikes occasionally from 1 to 5 days, paying directly at the collection point.
Each BiciMAD station is composed of several bases (bicycle parking) and a totem.
To use a Bike, the first thing to do is find a lighted with Green, and insert your pass. At that time it will beep and the light starts flashing, then you have to pull the bike out.
It is very important to check that the bike is in a good state: there have been many cases of vandalism, and unfortunately, more than 13,500 complaints were recorded last July.
Check the lights on the base:
Green-light: the bike is OK and you can take it
Red-light: you can leave your Bike here
Blue-light: the base has been reserves, so you can´t leave your Bike here .
No light: the base/the Bike doen´t work.
You can consult this brochure that contains all the information:
Do not forget to be cautious: the helmet is not obligatory, but as a cyclist I am, I recommend it.
Enjoy!
English
Thank you!!! 🙂