Boris bikes in a spin as unused bicycles are hijacked

The Boris Bike scheme in London is a success by any measure; the scheme had notched up an incredible one million journeys by the time it was only ten weeks old. But however successful the bike hire scheme becomes, there are inevitably times when the bikes stand in their docking stations unused…until now.

Boris bikes in a spin

A resourceful group of London cyclists who enjoy ‘spinning’ (think aerobics class on exercise bikes) have taken to placing small rollers under the rear wheels of unused Boris Bikes. The result is an impromptu, alfresco and free spinning class.

What are the London cycle hire bikes like to ride?

The Barclays Bikes will be ridden off and into kerbs, dropped, scraped and generally made to work hard for a living, but a test ride suggests the bikes are up to the job.

Whilst not the lightest of machines, the bikes feel sure-footed on the road – a quality that will reassure novice riders. The gears are easy to operate and the bike’s lights are on permanently. Verdict: Well-designed, easy to ride and tough

The history of mass cycle hire schemes

Cycle insurance

Cycle insurance from the ETA includes new-for-old, cover for accidental damage, £1m third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, we will even come out and recover you and your bike. Get an instant online quote below.