South West Trains Extends Cycle Hire Scheme

South West Trains (SWT) is to extend the UK rail network’s first green cycle hire initiative following a successful pilot scheme.

Earlier this year, the company which provides rail services to Crewkerne and Yeovil Junction, teamed up with Brompton Bicycle to encourage passengers to cycle as part of a fully integrated low carbon journey combining bike and train. SWT invited some of its season ticket holders to take part in a free trial of the scheme, using Brompton’s folding bikes.

The trial was a success, and now SWT is making 50 bikes available for hire to SWT season ticket holders and the general public.

Brompton Folding Bike

Passengers will be able to hire the SWT branded Brompton bicycles from the Lost Property Office at London’s Waterloo station. The aim is that people use them for short trips within the city, instead of taking the tube, bus or taxi.

For season ticket holders, a South West Trains Brompton bike can be hired for up to a year for less then £2 a week. A selection of daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual bike hire options are also available for non-season-ticket holders.

These bikes have no travel restrictions and can be carried on all South West Trains services. However, all folding cycles must be stowed as luggage.

Further information and full terms and conditions can be found on the South West Trains website.