Last updated: 17/12/2025
How to use the red bikes in Barcelona
Renting red bikes in Barcelona
What is Bicing and Who Can Use It?
Barcelona’s red bikes—known as Bicing—are a staple of city life for locals. Whether it’s commuting to work, enjoying a leisurely ride, or zipping through the city’s charming streets, these bikes have become the go-to option for sustainable transportation. But how do they work, and can visitors use them too? Let’s dive in.
Bicing is Barcelona’s public bike-sharing service, launched in 2007 to promote sustainable travel. With over 50,000 users in the first three months, it quickly became a favorite among locals. Today, it’s still going strong and operates with both regular and electric bikes, integrated into the Smou app for seamless use.
However, here’s the catch: Bicing is exclusively for Barcelona residents with a valid DNI (Spanish ID) or NIE (residency ID). If you’re a visitor, no worries—there are plenty of bike rental options tailored to tourists, and they’re often more convenient for sightseeing without time limits
Table of Content: : Red Bicycles in Barcelona
Shared Bikes System in Barcelona
How to Start with Bicing
Curious about how locals use Bicing? Here’s a quick guide:
- Download the Smou App: Sign up for the Bicing service.
- Wait for Your Card: Registration takes about 10 days, but you can use the app immediately.
- Locate a Bike: Check the nearest available bike on the Bicing Map in the Smou app.
- Unlock the Bike: Scan the QR code on the bike or tap your Bicing card. Wait for the yellow light to turn green, and you’re good to go!
- Return the Bike: Park it at one of the 519 stations across the city. Use the app to confirm you’ve returned it correctly.
Where to Rent Bikes if You’re Not a Resident
For visitors, renting bikes in Barcelona is a breeze. Numerous bike rental shops and app-based rental services make it easy to grab a bike and start exploring. Want to skip the hassle of apps?
Pros and Cons of Bicing
Advantages
- Affordable: Unlimited access for €50/year makes it an economical choice for locals.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces CO2 emissions and promotes sustainable transport.
- Convenient: With 519 stations, picking up and returning bikes is easy.
Disadvantages
- Residents Only: Tourists cannot register for Bicing.
- Time Limits: You must return the bike within 30 minutes to avoid extra fees.
- Availability Issues: During peak hours, bikes or docking spots can be hard to find.
The tires of the red Bicing bikes are sturdy, featuring double-walled aluminum rims and puncture-resistant outer tires. The bikes have only three gears, an adjustable saddle, and automatic lighting. They are practical but not technologically advanced.
Bicing is not a tourist rental system. It’s specifically designed for short daily trips within the city, catering to residents. If you’re a tourist looking to explore Barcelona by bike, you’ll need to consider other alternatives.
A great option is Perry Tours, where you can book a guided tour in Dutch. Let a local guide show you the most beautiful, unique, and charming spots in the Catalan capital.
An annual subscription currently costs €47.16, with an additional €14 for the electric bike subscription. Rides up to 30 minutes are free, while longer rides are subject to variable rates.
The Bicing app makes it easy to locate bike stations and check bike availability. It also provides navigation to the nearest station and keeps track of your rides.
To unlock a bike at a station, simply scan the QR code on the bike using your phone. When returning the bike, place it in an available dock and secure the lock. The app helps you find nearby stations with free spaces.
If a station is full, the app will suggest alternative locations nearby. You’ll also get an extra 10 minutes to park the bike elsewhere at no additional cost.
Conclusion
Bicing is an affordable, eco-friendly way for locals to navigate Barcelona. However, for tourists, a bike rental or guided tour offers a more flexible and enjoyable way to see the city without time limits or app complications.Bicing is an affordable and sustainable choice for residents of Barcelona.
For travellers, a standard rental or guided experience usually works better: you’re free to explore without docking stations, time windows, or app setups.
Families who want a relaxed, safe way to explore might enjoy a family-focused cycling experience, designed with comfortable routes and plenty of space for breaks.
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I’ve lived in Barcelona for more than two decades and enjoy sharing tips and insights based on real experience and reliable local knowledge.
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