Afternoon:
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Boris bikes are now available to the general public, including tourists, who can ride them by swiping a credit card at a docking station.
The Mayor's £140 million scheme was finally opened to unregistered users more than four months later than planned.
Scheme contractor Serco was confident it had eliminated technical gremlins for today's 10am launch after a trial yesterday failed to release bikes because of problems reading cards.
TfL said it expected a slow take-up of the bikes because of the cold weather, but said it would allow users to make up their own minds on whether it was safe to cycle.
The scheme's 108,000 registered users have been advised to take “extra care”, particularly on roads which may not have been gritted.
However, much of central London — where the bikes are located — was clear. Unregistered users pay £1 a day or £5 for weekly access to the scheme. They can then use the bikes for up to 30 minutes as often as they like.
Bikes are released by tapping in a five-digit code which is displayed when users insert their card. Anti-skimming devices have been fitted to prevent fraud.
TfL staff will be on duty over the weekend at the most popular docking stations to provide help.
Boris Johnson said: “Now those who have only watched enviously from the sidelines can join the cycle revolution at the swipe of a card.”
Reader views (5)
A boris bike what with the state of the roads he controls be better hiring a toboggan!
- Melvyn Windebank, Canvey Island, Essex, 05/12/2010 18:13
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I would guess that some users have decided that London roads are not the best places for part-time cyclists so they need to find a few more.
- Mike Melbourne, Bedford, 05/12/2010 11:31
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A new use for stolen credit card>
- Mike Melbourne, Bedford, 05/12/2010 10:13
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"Scheme contractor Serco was confident it had eliminated technical gremlins for today's 10am launch after a trial yesterday failed to release bikes because of problems reading cards" - the system crashed this morning and they still haven't got all the terminals back online.
Funny this story appears after it's evident that the launch has been a failure.
- Helen, West London, 03/12/2010 14:17
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Not making enough dosh,!! I thought the snow would have an effect.
Next on the list is number plates,road tax,and personal insurance.
- Davey-Buoy, Chertsey, 03/12/2010 13:26
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