Budapest will revamp its public bicycle sharing scheme

The lower quay of Pest will be handed over to pedestrians and cyclists every weekend until September

Budapest Transport Center BKK and the Municipal Council have decided to completely renew the community bicycle service MOL Bubi from 2021, BKK announced on its site. Among the planned changes are a new mobile app, easier-to-pedal bikes, and a more flexible pricing system. The goal is to increase the number of cyclists in Budapest and to make MOL Bubi an integral part of the capital's public transport.

The introduction of MOL Bubi in 2014 fundamentally contributed to the promotion and acceptance of cycling as a form of urban transport. To date, 2 071 apple-green bicycles are on offer in 157 different parts of the city. 

From March 15, due to the coronavirus epidemic, the fee for using the bicycles has been reduced temporarily to the symbolic amount of HUF 100 (EUR 0,3) a month. This has led to the number of registered users skyrocketing to over 100 000.

Easier to rent, easier to drive

BKK and the city administration have therefore jointly decided to put the operation of the public bike system from 2021 on a new footing in order to achieve long-term goals and cost-effectiveness. The intention to develop was also welcomed by the scheme’s main sponsor - Hungarian oil and gas company MOL which vowed to remain an active partner.

MOL Bubi will undergo a comprehensive technological renewal. From 2021, a new application would support the rental of bikes. Bicycles will be equipped with improved tyres and smart locks. And last but not least, Budapest public transport pass-holders will get a discount for using the bicycles.

Pest quay opens to pedestrians and cyclists on weekends

Meanwhile, Mayor Gergely Karácsony announced yesterday that, in accordance with the Budapest Restart program, the capital will hand over the lower quay of Pest to pedestrians and cyclists every weekend until the end of September, thus expanding the public areas that can be used for recreation.

When using the Pest quay, visitors must observe additional regulations. They are advised, if possible, to approach the quay not by car, but on foot, by bicycle or by public transport. Those intending to arrive by car, can use a local parking application to check the occupancy of the parking spaces in the area before departing.