We have updated Bleeper's operating zones in suburban areas of Dublin city after carrying out a careful and detailed analysis of the trip data from our public bikes.
The main Bleeper operating zone in Dublin city centre (within the canals) has not been changed at all.
Outside the canals, we have implemented a new system that will ensure our service is more reliable and efficient. We have removed areas where there is low population density and where there are no public cycle parking stands and no local amenities - such as transport hubs, shops, or post offices.
It has been our experience that Bleeper bikes which are parked in these low-density areas remain unused for longer periods of time than the bikes which are parked in busier suburban hubs.
It is important for the viability of Bleeper's service that our bikes are used repeatedly on any given day, rather than a single trip to a quiet location where the bike is unlikely to be used again for hours, or even days.
Bleeper has piloted Suburban Hubs in Crumlin, Beaumont, and Artane over the past two years and we are happy with how that operating model has worked, so we are now extending this approach to other suburban villages around Dublin.
The benefits of this "Suburban Hub" approach include the following:
A more reliable service: There will be more bikes available in more predictable locations, rather than a few bikes scattered across a broader area.
Less irregular parking: The new operating zones are focused on areas where there is sufficient public cycle parking infrastructure, so users will be less likely to improperly lock bikes to trees, fences, or other pieces of street furniture.
Improved bike quality: Bleeper's technicians will be able to find and service our bikes more efficiently at these suburban hubs, ensuring that bikes will be checked, maintained, and repaired more efficiently.
New Parking Zones Added
As part of this update we have also added new parking zones, such as at Broombridge and Clongriffin train stations, at Dublin Airport, and in Huntstown and Phibblestown in West Dublin. (A reminder that if you live in Fingal, you can now apply for the Fingal Pass, which gives you the first 30 minutes of every Bleeper trip for free!)
Please note that you can still park a Bleeper bike outside our operating zones, but you will only be able to 'Pause' the trip rather than ending it. Trips can only be ended within our operating zones. Pausing a trip is charged at half the normal rate.
We are also actively reviewing the operating zones and are accepting feedback and suggestions from our customers about any areas which they feel should be included. If these suggestions meet our criteria for viability they will be added to the operating zone.
If you have any further queries please don't hesitate to contact us.