China’s biggest public bike-hire operator has announced plans to launch the cycling system in Manchester – it’s first location outside of Asia.
Having been described as the first cashless and station-free bike-sharing system, Mobike began its journey in Shanghai back in 2016. It has since expanded across Asia, located in 99 cities.
The Mobikes designed to last four years with no maintenance. They have airless tyres and wheels made out of aluminium magnesium alloy, which are “indestructible even with a hammer” said Steve Pyer, Mobike’s UK general manager.
Before coming to Manchester, some changes were made to accommodate the wet weather.
“Everyone warned us about the rain,” said Richard Huang, head of international product at Mobike. To simulate puddles, Mobikes were taken to a river in China to test the new mud guards.
So why Manchester? The firm chose the UK city for its first non-Asian launch due to the city’s reputation for innovation.
Not a bad choice considering that the city was declared one of the unhealthiest in England, and which is home to the only drive-through branch of Greggs.
“We wanted to find a city that would be the fastest and most open-minded to work with, and everyone said Manchester.” said Chris Martin, Mobike’s head of international expansion.
“Getting more people on bikes who don’t normally ride bikes is a brilliant idea,” said Stuart Round. “I’ve never rode my bike in the city centre, because I think it’s probably a death trap if I’m being honest with you. I think the infrastructure is the key thing. And I can’t see why the two [bikes and roads] can’t go hand-in-hand.”
Rob Raikes from the Greater Manchester Cycling Campaign, said: “If you suddenly have a thousand inexperienced cyclists in the middle of Manchester there’s going to be one hulluva duty to make the city streets safer. People will be terrified. Hopefully this scheme will be a pump primer for making cycling infrastructure in the city much better.”