Student Travel Tips: WM Cycle Hire

Cycle Hire Bikes 3

The green cycle hire bikes are a feature of campus life, and are a speedy a way to get to lectures visit town or nip to the shops. Here are eight top tips for new riders. 

1. Download the Beryl app to your phone

This scheme starts and ends with the app, so download it now! After you've registered an account, use the app to find the nearest docking station, scan your bike to unlock it and ride away.

2. Get a helmet and stay safe

 Our region has long been a heartland for bike manufacturing, and the green bikes are locally made. So they have quality components and safety features like integrated lights. One thing they don't have is a helmet. It is up to you to bring that along. If you don't have a lid, our campus bike shop Gear Up stocks a range of helmets, so drop into see James in Staff House Square to get one.

3. Always dock and lock

 When you have got to where you need to go, slot the bike into the dock, then push the yellow lever downwards. You'll hear a beep when you the bike is correctly docked, which says that your ride is over and you can go on your way.

4. Get to know the best routes near campus

 UoB is the hub of network of cycling routes in South Birmingham. Including the A38 blue route, the Birmingham-Worcester canal and the Rea Valley route. See where they will take you.  

5. Bundle up for best value

 If you use the bikes a lot, buying a bundle is the best way to make money go further. Get  100, 300 or 600 minute bundle and minutes r balance depending on how long you ride. If you choose a pedal bike, you avoid the unlock charge, and e-bikes are cheaper per minute.

6. Use the scheme across the West Midlands

 This is a scheme for the whole West Midlands. So if you take a trip to Wolverhampton or Coventry (don't make that face--the old cathedral is a must-see and the IKEA is easier to get to than the Brummie one), then you zip around on a green bike there too.

7. Save your legs and choose an e-bike

DO you need to look fresh on arrival, or are you in a hurry? Those bikes with purple trim are e-bikes. I've you've never tried riding one, you will be amazed at how effortless cycling becomes. 

8. Don't be shy!

If you have any questions about bus travel, don't hesitate to get in touch with Edward, sustainable travel officer at UoB. Just email sustainabletravel@contacts.bham.ac.uk

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