Get the App
To hire a cargo bike, download the Bleeper app, enter a few details to register your account, and unlock a cargo bike with your phone.
About The Project
This shared cargo bike service is a pilot project being run jointly by Bleeper and Dublin City Council's Beta Projects division to assess the viability of shared cargo bikes in Dublin.
The cargo bikes are available to hire by members of the public - via the Bleeper app - from the dedicated bike hangar in Portobello.
For more information about DCC Beta Projects, visit the website:
How To Take Part
1. Get The Bleeper App
If you are not already a Bleeper customer, you should download the Bleeper app, and then set up an account within the app.
2. Join The Cargo Bike Scheme
In the menu of the Bleeper app, tap 'Join a Private Scheme' and on the next page select 'Cargo Bikes - Dublin'.
3. Check Your Email
Bleeper will send you an email with further instructions about the shared cargo bike service.
Hiring & Unlocking
Booking the Cargo Bike
In the Bleeper app, tap the tab at the top of the map to switch to the Cargo Bikes - Dublin service.
Select the cargo bike you want to hire and then choose the date & times you want to hire it for.
Unlocking the Cargo Bike
When you have opened the bunker, tap 'Start Trip' in the Bleeper app to unlock the bike.
The wheel lock will open, releasing the locking chain. Wrap and secure the chain around the seat post before beginning your trip.
Cargo Bike Options
There are two cargo bike types available to hire: A box cargo bike and a longtail cargo bike. Both bikes are assisted by an electric motor.
The box cargo bike has a front box which can carry two child passengers or up to 80kg of cargo.
The longtail cargo bike has an elongated rear carrier which can carry two child passengers or one adult passenger, with a max load of 80kg on the rear carrier.
Cargo Bike Location
Our shared cargo bikes are stored in a bike bunker near the Dublin Bikes station on the Portobello Road, beside the Grand Canal.
Please note that the cargo bikes must be returned to the bunker at the end of your hiring period: They cannot be left in other locations like Bleeper's regular public bikes.
The cargo bikes must be pre-booked using the Bleeper app.
Accessing The Bunker
The cargo bike bunker is accessed via a smartphone app called Evva Airkey. Follow these steps to access the bunker:
1. Make sure you already have a Bleeper account set up.
2. Download the Evva Airkey app.
3. Email Bleeper ( customercare@bleeperactive.com ) to request access to the bunker. (May take 24 hours)
4. At the bunker, tap on the Evva lock to "wake it up."
5. Hold your phone near the lock to open it via Blutooth.
6. When the light on the lock turns green, rotate the knob & lift the handle to open the bunker.
Tariffs
Trip Fee
The cargo bikes cost €1 per 15 minutes of use. This fee is capped at €25 for one day.*
*Please note the operating hours of the cargo bike service are from 05.30 until 00.30. The cargo bike must be returned to the bunker by 00.30 (12.30am).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the cargo bikes electric?
Yes, the cargo bikes have a battery and an electric motor which can assist the rider up to a speed of 25km/h. Above that speed, the electric motor will automatically cut out and won't assist again until the speed drops below 25km/h and you start pedalling.
How does the electric assist work?
- Make sure the electric assist is turned on by pressing the power button.
- Use the controls on the handlebar to select the level of electric assistance you require.
- Using the lowest assist level will give you a longer battery range, while the highest assist level will reduce your battery range.
Can I keep the cargo bike overnight?
It is not possible to keep the cargo bike overnight, and you must return the cargo bike to the bunker by 10pm.
How long before my booking time can I unlock the cargo bike?
If you show up early for your booking, you will have to wait until your booking time before you can unlock the cargo bike.
If I return the cargo bike early, do I still get charged for my full booking time?
Yes, you will still be charged for the full time that you have booked, even if you return the cargo bike early.
If I arrive late for my booking, can I still unlock the cargo bike?
Yes, you can still unlock the cargo bike at any time during your booking period.
Can I carry passengers on the cargo bike?
Yes, the cargo bikes are designed for carrying passengers. The box cargo bike can carry up to two child passengers and is equipped with a bench and seat belts. The longtail cargo bike can carry two child passengers or one adult passenger. Seats for babies or toddlers are not provided.
If I return the cargo bike late, is there a penalty charged?
Yes there is a fee for returning the cargo bike late, as this may affect other customers who have made a booking.
Can I lock the bike during my trip?
Yes, you can use the pause and unpause button in the Bleeper app to lock/unlock the bike if you need to do lock the cargo bike. Close the wheel lock and tap 'Pause Trip' in the Bleeper app.
How do I end a journey?
- First, park the bike back in the bunker. You can unlock the bunker in the same way as when you picked the bike up.
- Close the lock on the bike and tap finish the booking in the Bleeper app. Take a photo of the bike to show the lock is closed correctly.
- Lock the bunker in the same way as when you picked up the bike.
Can I extend my booking while using the cargo bike?
No, it's not possible to extend your booking while the cargo bike is in use. You should return the cargo bike before your booking time ends. If there is a problem, contact Bleeper's customer care team.
How far in advance can I book the cargo bike?
You can book the cargo bike up to 7 days in advance.
What are the minimum and maximum booking times?
You can book a cargo bike for a minimum of 15 minutes or a maximum of 12 hours in a single booking.