Kielce municipal bike usage declines in 2026 season

The Kielce municipal bike system saw a decrease in usage during the 2026 season compared to the previous year. According to data from the Municipal Sports and Recreation Center in Kielce, cyclists used the bikes 66,993 times, covering over 243,000 km. This is a decline from the nearly 75,000 rentals and 250,000 km traveled in the prior year.

Jacek Domoradzki, director of the Municipal Sports and Recreation Center, attributed the lower numbers to unfavorable weather during the summer months, particularly in August. Despite the drop in volume, user satisfaction ratings increased from 4.1 to 4.4 on a five-point scale. Average trip distances rose to 3.6 km, with an average rental time of approximately 30 minutes.

Electric bikes remained popular, accounting for 8,790 rentals. The city is currently reviewing proposals from residents and councilors to improve the system, including the potential relocation or addition of new stations. The current contract with operator ROOVEE is set to expire, and a new tender will be announced to manage the system through at least the 2029 season.