Swansea bike share cyclists hit 100,000 mark

Leading bike share operator nextbike is celebrating after its Swansea users crossed the line to reach 100,000 rentals since the scheme launched in 2018.  

The Santander Cycles Swansea scheme reached the milestone just ahead of UK Bike Week (6-12 June), which encourages people to get out there and enjoy their local community by bike. 

Nextbike UK MD, Krysia Solheim, said she was delighted to announce the news. 

“It’s clear that the people of Swansea have embraced a new-found love for cycling since the scheme was launched four years ago. 

“To have reached 100,000 rentals is fantastic news for the city, as people opting to cycle instead of using the car or public transport means that they’re not only helping to reduce CO2 emissions and ease congestion, but they’re also boosting their physical and mental health, too.”

Nearly 45,500 of those rides were taken in the last year (June 21 – May 22) alone, with a record day last week with 335 rides on Thursday, June 2.

The fleet of 70 pedal bikes has seen an average of more than 2 rides a day, with a high of 5 rides. 

The scheme is run in conjunction with Santander and Swansea University and was first launched in 2018, after the University beat stiff competition to win the Santander Cycles University Challenge. 

Since then, the scheme has helped thousands of students, locals and tourists ride confidently around the city.

May 2022 saw the scheme hit its best ever month with 5,844 rentals up 78 per cent from last year. 

“It’s fitting that the milestone comes during UK Bike Week which this year is asking people to imagine how their local community could be improved if everyone in it used their bikes more,” Krysia explained. 

“These last few years have seen a lot of change, many people took up cycling for the first time or rediscovered it. Some for exercise, some for commuting to work, to go to the shops or even just to be able to see friends and family. We’re delighted to be able to give the people of Swansea the opportunity to cycle and pleased to see them utilising it.

“We would love to expand the scheme, and it’s evident that the demand is there and would grow with additional stations and bikes.” 

Inclusive cycling charity Bikeability Wales also supports the scheme, ensuring bikes are regularly serviced, stocked and repaired from their workshop at the University’s Singleton Park Campus.