In a hurry to get to a lecture? Want a way to travel quickly without polluting the planet? It's easy to hire a bike or e-scooter whenever you need it on campus.
The e-scooter on campus are brought to you by Beryl, and the bikes by West Midlands Cycle Hire.
Whatever wheels you choose, both services use the same app to make it extra convenient to travel with little or no environmental impact. You'll need to download the Beryl app on your phone to start your journey. Open the app and unlock your scooter or bike by holding your phone above its unlock pad. All that's left to do is hop on and enjoy the ride!
If you've opted to pay as your ride, you'll be charged a small unlock fee. For cheaper, regular travel, we recommend making the most of a Day or Flexi Pass. Prices start from as a little as 20p per minute.
There are dozens of locations you can pick up and drop off bikes and scooters on and around campus. Find your nearest with the West Midlands Cycle Hire bike and scooter station map.
Find a station
Riding a Beryl e-scooter
To ride an e-scooter, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a UK Driver's Licence.
You can use Beryl scooters on University of Birmingham land and on campus roads and cycle paths. However, please do not ride them on pavements or narrow pedestrian paths. Other e-scooters are not allowed on campus or in student accommodation.
Certain zones may also be designated as no-go or slow-speed zones. Technology fitted to the e-scooter will limit access or speed in these zones.
Parking your ride
Once you’ve got to your destination, please leave your scooter or bike in the Beryl bays and docks around campus. These are clearly marked through the Beryl app and on the ground. Stand the e-scooter or bike upright and securely in the dock. Make sure it's locked to end your ride, otherwise you'll continue to be charged.
You can park your scooter or bike outside of a dock, however, you will be charged a parking fee. If you do this, please make sure you park considerately, out of the way of pedestrians and places where it may cause an obstruction.
Travel safely
We strongly recommend that you wear a helmet and hi-vis clothing, so you can be clearly seen.
You can also help keep yourself and others safe when you ride by:
- Not accepting any passengers – just one person per scooter, please
- Making sure bags and other items do not interfere with the controls
- Always assessing and adapting to the situation (e.g., weather conditions)
- Mounting your phone in the holder (if available) and using it for navigation only
- Never riding when tired or affected by alcohol or medication
- Paying care and attention to other road and cycle path users
- Ringing the bell and giving adequate space when passing pedestrians
- Respecting all road rules and observing road signs and markings
- Always being ready to stop and reduce your speed in case of hazards
Looking for a longer term bike rental?
You can hire a bike through the University for the year or a single term.