Budapest to launch new MOL Bubi bikes: Bigger fleet, e-bikes and expanded coverage

Budapest is preparing to roll out the next generation of its popular public bike-sharing system, MOL Bubi. The Budapest Transport Centre (BKK) has signed a contract with its new operating partner, clearing the way for the launch of the third generation of Bubi bikes. According to current plans, the new fleet could appear on Budapest’s streets within six months – or even sooner if preparations progress faster than expected.

The era of the second-generation MOL Bubi is coming to an end. Cyclists can use the winter MOL Bubi pass until 23 December. From 24 December, a pilot period begins, running until 15 February, during which the bike-sharing service will be available with a special MOL Bubi Pilot pass for HUF 500 (EUR 1.3).

A major milestone for Budapest’s bike-sharing system

On 22 December, BKK signed the contract with the winner of the public procurement procedure, allowing preparations to begin for what will be the largest and most advanced Bubi service to date. Under the agreement, the new fleet must be launched within six months of signing, although early delivery could see the new bikes on the roads even sooner.

The second generation of MOL Bubi has been one of BKK’s biggest success stories. Following a complete overhaul of the original system, the number of trips increased five- to eightfold. Over the past four and a half years, users have hired Bubi bikes around 14 million times and ridden more than 31 million kilometres across the city. The evolution of MOL Bubi has mirrored the growth of cycling and the expansion of Budapest’s bike network: today, people of all ages use the service, and the distinctive green bikes have become a familiar part of the city’s streetscape.

Pilot period to support the transition

The second-generation system officially ends on 23 December. From the morning of 24 December, a pilot phase begins, during which the service can be used with the MOL Bubi Pilot pass until 15 February. The pass costs HUF 500 and is valid until the end of the pilot period, regardless of the purchase date. Anyone planning to cycle for at least ten minutes during the winter months is likely to find the pass worthwhile.

During the pilot phase, users must either purchase the MOL Bubi Pilot pass or, if opting for pay-per-minute use, re-register their bank card in the app.

The transition period also brings changes for users. In Budapest’s 6th District (Terézváros), bikes can be returned not only to traditional docking stations but also to 168 designated Mobi Points. These are marked public spaces where shared micromobility devices – such as bicycles and e-scooters – can be picked up and dropped off in an orderly way. Due to winter weather conditions, the number of available bikes will also be reduced to around half of the usual fleet.

As part of the pilot, BKK will analyse usage habits in the 6th District. Terézváros was chosen because it has one of the densest networks of Mobi Points, allowing enough data to be collected to prepare for full integration. The data will be analysed anonymously to better understand user behaviour and needs, helping BKK optimise the network ahead of the launch of the new Bubi system.

In the coming months, preparations for the new generation will also include installing previously tested and proven bike stands to replace existing docking units, as well as updating the current totem infrastructure.

An international partner with proven experience

The new public bike system is expected to include at least 5,000 brand-new bicycles, with a minimum of 1,000 electric-assist bikes. Over time, the service area could expand beyond current boundaries to cover all major transport hubs with at least 30,000 passenger movements, including every metro station in Budapest.

The winner of the tender, Inurba Mobility, has more than a decade of experience in providing bike-sharing services and is a leading player on the international market. The company works with a strong network of technological and commercial partners and offers solutions tailored to individual cities.

Before the tender, Inurba Mobility carried out a detailed analysis of environmental factors and Budapest’s specific user needs to ensure the best possible experience. The company will introduce both mechanical and electric-assist bicycles as part of the new Bubi generation. Inurba already operates similar systems in Rouen, France, and several Polish cities, including Gdańsk, Gdynia and Sopot.

One particularly welcome improvement for users will be easier seat-height adjustment. In line with BKK’s expectations, this will be achieved through a larger, more ergonomic lever, making the bikes more comfortable and user-friendly for riders of all heights.