Leeds City Council has expanded its public bike hire scheme, Leeds City Bikes, with the addition of a new electric bike (e-bike) model and extended service areas.
This expansion aims to increase accessibility and usage across a wider section of the city, particularly in areas where demand for active travel options is growing.
The scheme, first launched in September 2023, is a joint initiative between Leeds City Council and Beryl. Initially focused on central Leeds, the system is now extending into communities including Burley, Headingley, Chapel Allerton and Armley. This expansion also includes key locations such as St James’s Hospital, Elland Road Park and Ride, and various university campuses.
Meanwhile, the new BBE2 e-bike model features a more robust frame and improved battery performance, designed to support longer journeys and more varied terrain.
Like the existing pedal bikes, these electric models can be located and unlocked via the Beryl app and are available through a range of pricing options, including pay-as-you-go, bundles, and minute-based passes.
Phil Ellis, CEO at Beryl, said:We are thrilled to be launching the BBE2 in Leeds and expanding the Leeds City Bikes service. Already, we have seen our bikes become a convenient and sustainable option for commuters and visitors alike – a practical and easy-to-use mobility solution. We look forward to seeing the reaction of riders to our innovative new BBE2, packed with new features and rider comforts.
The council has stated that the expanded scheme forms part of its efforts to improve sustainable transport infrastructure in the city. The introduction of e-bikes is expected to support longer and more accessible journeys, especially for those who may find traditional bikes challenging.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:Leeds City Bikes has welcomed over more than 22,000 unique riders complete over 120,000 journeys since launching in September 2023. With the introduction of the newest e-bike providing a lighter and easier way to travel by bike, my hope is it’ll provide commuters and leisure travellers more options to choose sustainable and active travel for their journeys.
The more riders we create, the more we can reduce congestion, improve air quality, and support the city’s ambition to be carbon neutral by 2030.
Leeds City Bikes is funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities Fund, which is provided by the Department for Transport. The scheme operates on a docked model, with designated bays throughout the city for parking and pick-up. Users are encouraged to return bikes to these bays to avoid additional charges and help ensure availability for others.
The expansion follows a period of data collection and community engagement, which informed the choice of new bay locations and helped identify gaps in the existing network. The council plans to continue monitoring usage patterns to guide future developments.
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin, said:Our cycle hire scheme has many benefits, helping people get around and improving their health and wellbeing.
That’s why we’ve invested in making it a success – so I’m delighted to see its expansion and the rollout of new and improved bikes.
This is an essential part of our vision to create a fully integrated transport network in a greener, better-connected region.
