WATCH OUT : BIXIs ARE EXPENSIVE $$$ !

Since May 2009, the city of Montreal has been offering its new bike service, the « Bixi ».

Since the inception of the « Bixi » service, confusion abounds with respect to its pricing, especially for the touristic clientele.

Many visitors believe, incorrectly, that a « Bixi » rental is a mere 7$ for a 24 hour period.

In fact, the amount of 7$ represents the access fee to the « Bixi » network since visitors aren't members of « Bixi ».

The following usage fees are in addition to the 7$ fee:

• 0-30 minutes : free
• 31-60 minutes : 1.75$
• 61-90 minutes : 3.50$
• EACH additionnal 30-minute period : 7.00$

Some examples of the costs of renting a « Bixi » :

• For 30 minutes : 7.00$
• For 60 minutes : 8.75$
• For 90 minutes : 12.25$
• For 2 hrs : 19.25$
• For 3 hrs : 33.25$
• For ½ day ( 4hrs) : 47.25$
• For 1 day ( 8hrs) : 103.25$

( Price per bike / continuous usage).

In order to differentiate this service from the various services offered by Montreal On Wheels, here is some useful information:

• Bixi Service •

• « Bixi » is just as expensive as a taxi service and is designed for very short transfers (30 minutes or less) and not for bike riding
• A « Bixi » bike is a heavy bike equipped with 3 speeds only.
• « Bixi » isn't designed for kids
• No helmets are supplied
• Security deposits of 250$ per bike are required with a maximum of 2 bikes per credit card

• Montreal On Wheels offers a complete rental service •

• Rental fees much less expensive than « Bixi »
• Light comfort-series 21 or 24-speed hybrid bike with a suspension in the seat post; bikes designed for comfortable riding
• « Cruiser » type bikes starting at 6,50$ per hour;
• Kids' bikes, trailers and trail-a-bikes
• Tandems, road bikes and "touring" bikes
• Refurbished bikes rented at a unbeatable price
• Helmets, locks, our very own detailed map of the bikes trails, repair kits and itinerary advice included