Forum Topic

Mobikes in Acton - Boon or Curse

Was very interested to read about the new dockless bike service that will be coming to Acton. I've not had a bike for a while as there hasn't been space in the house and the one I had was rusting due to being left outside but I do miss occasionally being able to nip somewhere quickly.It will be very interesting to see how the new system actually works. If you live in a part of Acton with relatively low footfall could you take a bike home each evening in the reasonable expectation it would still be there in the morning effectively turning it into your own personal vehicle?The experience in Hammersmith and Fulham with a similar service doesn't appear to have gone very well according to this article. The Council there blame lack of consultation but I don't see how this could have avoided people dumping bikes haphazardly or inconsiderately.

Andy Jones ● 3192d6 Comments

I now see that Wandsworth Council have just seized over 100 Obikes that appeared recently to clutter up its streets.http://www.cityam.com/269768/wandsworth-council-seizes-more-than-100-obikes-blockingThis follows similar action in Hammersmith.

Peter Evans ● 3185d

Obikes and Mobikes represent yet another private business model that relies on using free public space to carry out its trade and to make its money. At least Santander paid for designated racks for which they presumably had to get permission to erect.  'Just leave the bike anywhere when you've finished with it' sounds much the same as fly tipping.

Peter Evans ● 3188d

I am an obike member & used the H&F bikes a few times. They take seconds to unlock and the locking system is really easy when you're done. No you cannot expect the bike to be there the next day, or at least not in my experience. The map shows where the nearest one is - and inevitably you get to the place and it is obviously being stored in a private house or garden. Or you find the bike and it's been vandalised, or squeaks or clatters. So frustrating as I've paid to be a member and I only need it for a short trip a few times a week! I wish people could understand what sharing is... Thinking to buy a bike now.

Victoria Temple ● 3190d

They have geo-trackers so presumably the company can spot when someone is hoarding a bike. Not sure they would mind that much as long as it is used reasonably regularly. You would probably get a knock on your door if you kept it for over a week.Are these bikes effectively immobilised when not hired? If not they are going to become the new Morrisons shopping trolleys and will be found dumped by youths all over Acton.

Mark Evans ● 3191d

Apparently some bikes are being hoarded, people keep them in their garden overnight. Do people actually understand how they work?

Kim Rugg ● 3192d

I quite like the idea but don't understand how it works financially.

Sara Nathan ● 3192d