Riding a bicycle is a good way to get around Beijing, as it can avoid experiencing crowded public buses and traffic jams, save more time and money. At peak times on the busy roads in Beijing the bicycle is the fastest and most convenient vehicle for a short journey. If possible, do not hesitate to ride a bicycle for a short trip in the inner city. Most hotels in Beijing offer the service of bicycle hire; remember that a cash deposit will be required.

 Bicycle Rental

At present, about 5,000 public bicycles in Beijing are available for rent, and about 31 bicycle-rental outlets in Beijing are in operation with the authorization of the government. Beijing Hotel has 100 bicycles for hire and is equipped with POS machines. People who rent bicycles here can pay by bank cards or cash. In the future, all rental outlets will be equipped with POS machines. The rental company is responsible for looking after and repairing the bicycles, but it does not bear the cost of the repair of any malicious damage. If a bicycle is lost in the parking lot of a rental outlet, the rental company will bear the responsibility. If it is lost due to the lessees' fault, the deposit will be forfeited.

A special map of the bike rental outlets will soon be issued, providing convenience for people. From December 1, 2007, all new bikes in China will have different 'identification numbers' on the frame. The 15-digit number will contain the code of the rental company, the type of the bicycle, the manufacturing date and the number of the production line. By signing a contract and paying CNY 400 as a deposit you can rent a bicycle for a year, day or hour, and keep it yourself or in the parking lots of rental outlets. Customers can apply to change to a new bike or having repairs for free. A long-term let bicycle can be returned to a different rental outlet.