Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CALL A BIKE
Call a Bike
( 069-4272 7722;
www.callabike.de
)
is an automated cycle-hire scheme
offered by Deutsche Bahn (German Rail). In order to use it, you need a credit card to
pre-register for free online or at one of the dozens of docking stations scattered
around the central districts. The website has a map but, alas, it is in German only at
this point. Machines at the docking stations, though, have English instructions.
Once you're set up, select a bike and call the phone number marked on it in order to
release the lock. When you're done, you must drop it at another docking station. The
base fee for renting a bike is €0.08 per minute up to a maximum of €15 per 24 hours.
Fees are charged to your credit card.
Hiring a Bike
Once you've signed up, picking up a bike is actually pretty straightforward.
Unlo
t a termiinaal Touch the screen and identify yourself with your credit,
debit or customer card. Select the number of bicycles (maximum of two per custom-
er). Go to the assigned bicycle and tap on the lock display to open the lock.
Unlo
nlocckiing a b
g a biike a
e at a t
y phone Select a bike and call the red-rimmed phone number on
the lock. Confirm your request. Tap on the lock display to open the lock.
IInterruuptiing y
nlocckiing a b
g a biike b
e by ph
ur triip Lock the bike. To unlock it, you need your personal ID code,
which you'll be given after registering. It also displays briefly on your lock when lock-
ing the bike.
Retuurniing th
g your t
e biike Return the bike at any rental station. Lock the rear wheel and push
the button on the right side of the lock. Wait for confirmation.
g the b
Hire
Many hostels and hotels have guest bicycles, often for free or a nominal fee. If not, rental
stations are practically at every corner. These include not only the expected (bike shops, gas
stations) but also convenience stores, cafes and even clothing boutiques.
Prices start at €6 per day, although the definition of 'day' can mean anything from eight
hours to 24 hours. A cash or credit-card deposit and/or photo ID is usually required.
The following outfits are recommended. Call or check the website for branches and be sure
to book ahead, especially in summer.
BICYCLE RENTAL
Fahrradstation
