A necessity in the Castilla-La Mancha cities
The Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) has highlighted the lack of public bicycle rental services in the cities of Castilla-La Mancha. Although Albacete stands out as an exception, other large cities in the region still do not have similar alternatives.
The success of Albabici in Albacete
In the capital of Albacete, the Albabici service, managed by the City Council, has experienced constant growth. Last year, almost 1,300 users joined this initiative, reaching a total of 6,390 residents and city workers. Affordable rates, ranging from 2 euros per day for conventional bicycles to 40 euros per year for electric ones, have contributed to its popularity.
Opportunities for development
The OCU Castilla-La Mancha considers that the promotion of similar services in other cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants, such as Ciudad Real, Cuenca, Guadalajara, Puertollano, Talavera de la Reina and Toledo, is a unique opportunity. Despite previous attempts with mixed results, the electric bicycle could be key to overcoming the topographical difficulties of some cities. Furthermore, the creation of a network of protected bike lanes, similar to the one already being implemented in Ciudad Real and Puertollano, could encourage their use.
Health and environmental benefits
Promoting the use of bicycles not only benefits the health of users, but also contributes to reducing polluting emissions in cities. Furthermore, on journeys of less than four kilometres, the bicycle is positioned as the fastest means of urban transport.
