Balashikha has become the first city to introduce charging and rental points for electric city bikes from Velobike. At present, seven power units are operational, and plans are in place to expand the network so that stations appear in additional towns within the Moscow region.
A practical tip from the Department of Transportation explains how riders can enjoy electric bicycles and other forms of urban transport without the usual time and usage restrictions. The key is subscribing to MultiTransport Velo through the Moscow Metro app, available on Google Play and the App Store.
Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport, emphasizes the city’s commitment. He notes that the mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, personally supports the growth of the bike rental network, which continues to widen and improve in convenience each year. The current rollout in the Moscow region marks a milestone, with Balashikha as the first city where this service is accessible to all. These bikes offer a flexible option for reaching homes, parks, and railway stations. If demand remains high, the initiative could extend to more cities in the Moscow region by 2023.
- The Ministry of Transport of Moscow has identified strategies to reduce the burden of freight traffic on the capital’s roads.
- Updates about the program can be followed through the Telegram channel under the banner “Behind the Wheel”.
In parallel, the transportation department continues to explore innovations that improve mobility and reduce congestion, aiming to make urban travel smoother for residents and visitors alike. These developments reflect a broader push toward cleaner, more efficient urban transportation and showcase how new bike rental models can complement existing transit networks. By expanding access to electric bikes and integrating them with city-wide transit apps, the region is aligning with modern mobility trends that many Canadian and American cities are watching closely for potential replication and adaptation. The result is a transportation ecosystem that supports quick trips, first- and last-mile solutions, and a more connected urban experience. Independent analyses and city-level indicators suggest that such programs can contribute to reduced road wear, lower emissions, and healthier, more active communities, especially in densely populated metropolitan areas. The ongoing evolution of this network is subject to policy changes, funding decisions, and user uptake, which together will determine how broadly the service grows in the near future. Citations: municipal transportation records and public briefings provide context on the initiative and its expected impact on regional mobility.