Balban Bikes hit the streets of Gibraltar

PERHAPS not as excitingly named as the Boris Bike, 105 of the new Balban Bikes are hitting the streets of Gibraltar.

This public bike hire scheme, launched by Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Paul Balban is intended to provide easy access to bicycles and therefore encourage cycling as a viable, healthy and environmentally sustainable alternative mode of transport.

Initially there will be 105 Redbikes produced by the company hourbike and sponsored by GibOil and they will be housed in 120 docking points spread over 13 locations throughout Gibraltar from the Airport to New Mole House.

The scheme will be operational on a 24 hour basis so the bicycles incorporate lights specifically for this purpose and they are also fitted with a carrier, a bicycle locking device, a bell and a protected driveshaft propulsion mechanism to reduce potential mechanical problems.

An interactive map of docking station locations, together with registration information can be easily accessed on the scheme’s website www.redibike.gi .

The website also allows users to see how many bicycles are available at each docking station and how many free docks are available to return bicycles and for regular users, there is also an App available for Android and iOS systems from the respective App stores.

The intention is that locals and commuters alike will take up this initiative, enthusiastically, as a viable alternative to the car.