Electric rental bikes return to Bengaluru with hub-based model and new rules

After a long hiatus, Bounce, the popular bike rental startup, is making a strong comeback on Bengaluru’s streets, this time with electric vehicles, new rules, and a focused user base. Having earlier suspended operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical challenges, Bounce is now revamping its services in a phased manner, starting with gig economy workers.

Also Read:Telangana approves 10-hour workday for commercial establishments with weekly cap of 48 hours

The fresh relaunch focuses on offering e-bikes exclusively to gig workers like food delivery agents, courier staff, and sales professionals. The aim is to support riders who rely on two-wheelers for their daily earnings but can’t afford full ownership. This move brings much-needed relief to thousands of gig workers affected by the recent bike taxi ban in Karnataka.

Bounce had earlier faced serious issues like helmet thefts, parking challenges, and bike damage, which forced it to pause its public bike rental service. However, the company is back with a hub-based model, users must pick up and drop off bikes at designated Bounce hubs. Currently, five such hubs have been set up at JP Nagar, Hoodi, Yelahanka, RR Nagar, and HSR Layout.

The service is presently not open to the general public, but Bounce has hinted at expansion in the near future. Initially, 1,000 e-bikes have been deployed. Riders need to make a minimum 3-day booking, with prices ranging from ₹250 to ₹285 per day, depending on the package selected. Weekly and monthly rental packages are also available, and users are required to pay a refundable security deposit.