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Buyer beware

Janice TeoWanneroo Times

I READ with interest Joondalup councillor Mike Norman’s high praise of the bike hire concept in use in Europe and China.

I cannot comment on the Chinese situation but have seen the result of depot-to-depot cycle hire in Europe.

The depots are impressive but where are the bikes? I put this question to my Dutch acquaintance and I thought he might die laughing.

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He finally could explain that the cycles were sturdy and painted a distinctive white, but in no time anyone who wanted one took one and they now appear in a multitude of colours and the plan has now been abandoned.

It might be prudent for Cr Norman to consult with the cities of Amsterdam as they were the bike capital of Europe, have designed cycle paths alongside paths carrying a continuous stream of fast traffic, which also includes mopeds and motorised cycles.

Compulsory identification or a substantial deposit would prevent theft at the expense of a simple rental system.

All I can say is good luck to Joondalup City.

IAN HICKS, Ashby.