Düsseldorf to launch new bike-sharing scheme

Düsseldorf will introduce a new municipal bike-sharing system, “Düsselbike”, in summer 2026, deploying 2,500 rental bicycles across the city. The scheme will be operated by Danish provider Donkey Republic under a five-year contract awarded following a Europe-wide procurement process.

The white bicycles – equipped with eight gears, a 12-litre front basket, mobile phone holder and 26-inch wheels – will be sponsored by Düsseldorf-based insurer ERGO Group and made available via an app. Connected Mobility Düsseldorf (CMD) will manage the system on behalf of the city.

Mayor Dr Stephan Keller said the initiative is designed to make everyday mobility more accessible. “With the introduction of 2,500 rental bicycles, our Düsselbikes, this summer, we want to make it even easier for people in Düsseldorf, as well as visitors to our city, to get around the state capital in a simple, flexible and environmentally friendly way,” he said.

In a bid to engage residents, the city has also launched a naming contest, inviting the public to suggest first names for each of the 2,500 bikes, which will later be displayed on the frames.

Phased rollout and digital management

The rollout will take place in three stages. An initial 500 bicycles will be available from 1 July 2026 at 20 stations in central districts. A further 1,000 bikes will be introduced on 1 August at 40 stations, followed by another 1,000 on 1 September at an additional 40 locations. In total, around 400 stations are planned across the city.

According to CMD, the system will use data-based planning and AI-supported rebalancing strategies to maintain high availability. The scheme is intended to serve residents, commuters, students and tourists, supporting first- and last-mile connections to public transport and integrating with Rheinbahn ticketing through app-based booking.

Photo: Daria Henken (Connected Mobility Düsseldorf)