英国人经验帖:骑摩拜单车是怎样一种感觉?
“These could transform the city - not just in the way you move, but in social and economic terms too.” Chris Martin, head of International at Chinese firm Mobike, is describing the roll-out of a bike-sharing service in Manchester and Salford. On June 29, there will be an initial launch of 1,000 bikes, but Mobike hopes to expand across Greater Manchester - as a launchpad for the rest of Europe. I’m introduced to a Mobike at the Velo-City conference in Nijmegen, Holland. Its aluminium frame is a distinctive silver and orange and although it does feel quite heavy I’m assured the weight is distributed so it doesn’t feel arduous to ride. The bikes show up on the app thanks to GPS. The Mobike app allows for easy unlocking when scanned the QR code on the bike, and the seat is easily adjusted. The bike is smooth to ride, has a nifty bell and a handy basket. Gear-less and single speed it couldn’t be simpler, plus there’s no chain to worry about. I don’t take it for a very long spin - these are intended for short trips after all - but I can imagine riding it around Manchester City centre. And crucially getting to my destination faster. But what about vandalism? Chris points to the air-free tyres and sturdy frame, insisting they are ‘virtually vandal-proof’. He’s confident they won’t be stolen. “These are accessible for all. Why steal something available to all? Who would buy it? It’s like buying a bottle of stolen tap water.” I’m told people will be willing to pay the refundable deposit, expected to be around £49 because they will value the quality of the bike. It will cost 50p an hour after that. Only time will tell if Manchester agrees. |