This article was taken from the July 2013 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
From a laid-back cruiser to the distinctive Boris Bike, cycle-share schemes offer a broad range of designs. Wired asked Grant Young and Ben Spurrier, from London bicycle brand
Condor Cycles, to rate some international rides.
Pibal, France
"The Pibal's frame is exposed, with minimal cladding highlighting the Philippe Starck design," says Spurrier. "Traditional construction also makes the frame much lighter than the hefty Boris Bike."
Barclays Cycle Hire, UK
"Extremely robust machines, if a little weighty," says Young of these London models (now also found in New York, Montreal and Melbourne). "And they have a very clean corporate identity."
Call a Bike, Germany
"This screams German efficiency," says Spurrier. "LCD touchscreens mean you don't need a docking station to lock it up, and the rear bag-carrier allows better handling than handlebar-mounted holders."
Nextbike, Germany
"These bikes have been around since 2005," says Young. "Although the step-through frame and standard parts have made them cheap to construct, they're susceptible to wearing out."
Ecobici, Mexico "The low-slung frame here offers the best combination of strength and practicality," says Spurrier. "They also appear much more inviting thanks to the bold Ferrari-red livery. One of my favourites."
OV-Fiets, Netherlands
"A classically modern, minimal take on the traditional Dutch bike," says Spurrier. "Thanks to the traditional single-coaster brake and geometry, the rider is placed in a nice, relaxed position."
Public cycle, China
"Basket aside, the technology is akin to a children's bike from the mid-90s," says Young of this Chinese scheme using low-cost, old-style bikes. "I imagine the ride will not be too enjoyable."
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
