Photo: Cesar von Meissen
Expansion, innovations and improved mobility also on the Baldeneysee
Essen, Baldeneysee, December 18, 2025. The Metropolradruhr bike-sharing system is undergoing a comprehensive modernization. Following a Europe-wide tender process by the Ruhr Regional Association (RVR), it has now been decided: Donkey Republic, an internationally active bike-sharing specialist from Copenhagen, will take over operation from April 1, 2026. The rental stations at [location name missing] are also affected. Baldeneysee. This change marks the beginning of a new phase for Germany's largest regional bicycle rental system – with more bikes, more stations and significantly more comfort for all users.
Milestone for sustainable mobility in the Ruhr area
Since its launch in 2010, Metropolradruhr has been considered a pioneer in climate-friendly mobility. The system enables the use of bicycles across city boundaries – a key component of the transport revolution in one of Europe's largest metropolitan regions. With the new operator, this concept will now be further developed. The RVR (Regional Association Ruhr) emphasizes that the decision to partner with Donkey Republic was a conscious one, aimed at raising the system to a new level both technologically and organizationally. The Danish company, headquartered in Copenhagen, is considered one of the most innovative companies in the European bike-sharing market.
Fleet doubling planned: Over 5,000 bikes and more than 1,000 stations
One of the key objectives of the change in operator is the massive expansion of the service. The fleet is expected to grow to over 5,000 bicycles next year – twice as many as before. At the same time, the network of stations will be expanded to more than 1,000 locations. This will make the system more comprehensive, flexible, and attractive for both commuters and leisure users.
All existing stations – including those on Baldeneysee – are to be retained, so that the familiar infrastructure will not only be preserved but significantly expanded.
New bicycle models announced: Higher quality, more comfort, more variety
At the start of operations in April 2026, an initial stock of bicycles will be available. This will be continuously supplemented with new, high-quality models. The focus will be particularly on:
Modern 8-speed bicycles for comfortable riding in urban areas, pedelecs for longer distances and inclines, e-cargo bikes for shopping, transporting children, or professional use. The first e-cargo bikes are expected to be available from [date]. Autumn Metropolradruhr will be available in Neukirchen-Vluyn and Datteln, among other locations, by 2026. This is intended to meet the increasing demand for flexible, emission-free transport solutions.
Tariffs should remain – students benefit particularly
The system will also remain very user-friendly in terms of pricing. The existing terms and conditions will remain unchanged.
| category | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard tariff | 1 euro per hour |
| Monthly rate | 7.50 euros per month including 60 free minutes per day |
| Annual rate | 60 euros per year including 60 free minutes daily |
| Advantages for students | Students at participating universities benefit particularly |
| Participating universities | Ruhr University Bochum, TU Dortmund, University of Duisburg-Essen |
The special fares for students, which are covered by the semester fee, will remain in place. This ensures that Metropolradruhr remains one of the most affordable and attractive mobility options for young people in the Ruhr region.
Transition: nextbike will continue to operate the system until 2026
Until Donkey Republic officially takes over, everything will remain as usual. The current operator, nextbike from Leipzig, will ensure continued operation until March 31, 2026. All fares, discounts, and special offers will remain valid until then. For users, this means: no interruptions, no changes, no restrictions.
Mobility project for the entire region
The RVR (Regional Association Ruhr) will continue to support the system's further development as a strategic partner. The goal is to expand Metropolradruhr into one of Europe's most modern and sustainable bike-sharing services in the long term. With the new operator, the expanded fleet, and the improved infrastructure, the Ruhr region is sending a strong signal for climate-friendly mobility and modern urban quality of life.
