The Bicing service is running a pilot operation for its users during La Mercè Fun Run on 19 and 20 September, with a temporary station to be set up at the Fòrum.

The intention is to make it easier for runners to get to the event using Bicing even though there are no stations near the starting point.

To this end, a special area is being set up and signposted with full safety and distancing guarantees for participants, where users can drop off their bikes safely and easily.

The temporary station will be in C/ Josep Pla, less than 40 metres away from the start line for the run. The location will be visible on the event app during the trial period. The station will only be operative during the run itself, from 7 am to 11 am on both days.

To comply with distancing and safety measures, the Barcelona Institute of Sports (IBE), in collaboration with Barcelona de Serveis Municipals (BSM), will set up a space of 330 square metres, with capacity for 150 bikes. At the same time, the station will guarantee:

• Safety and manoeuvrability for staff operating the service.
• Optimum storage without causing damage to the bikes.
• Additional space for compliance with physical distancing for Covid-19.

How will bikes be secured?

The temporary station will have a capacity for 150 bikes and Bicing staff will be on hand at all times. Using a mobile app (tablet or hand-held RFID reader), staff will register bikes and users as they arrive, as if they were anchoring the bike in the usual way.

In addition, steps will also be taken to ensure sufficient numbers of bikes at the six stations nearest the finish line for the event so that Bicing subscribers can use the service to get home.