Shared Bikes in China: Meituan & HelloBike Guide

Shared bikes are everywhere in China. Millions of colorful bicycles line sidewalks, ready to be unlocked with a quick QR code scan. They're perfect for short trips — the "last mile" between the subway and your destination.

How It Works

• Find a bike — Look on sidewalks, near subway stations, popular destinations

• Scan the QR code — Use the corresponding app or WeChat/Alipay

• Bike unlocks — Lock opens automatically, rental begins

• Ride — Stay within the designated operating area

• Park and lock — Park in a designated area and lock the bike

• Pay — Automatic through your linked payment method

Major Operators

Meituan Bike (美团单车) — Yellow bikes

• Unlock with: Meituan app or WeChat

• Website: meituan.com

Hellobike (哈啰单车) — Blue bikes

• Unlock with: Hellobike app or Alipay

• Website: hellobike.com

DiDi Bike (青桔单车) — Cyan/green bikes

• Unlock with: DiDi app or WeChat

Pricing

• First 15 minutes: ¥1.0–¥1.5

• After 15 minutes: ¥1.0 per additional 15 minutes

• Monthly passes: ~¥15–¥30/month

Rules and Tips

• Park properly — Only in designated areas. Improper parking may result in fines.

• Stay in the operating zone — Outside the zone may incur extra fees.

• Age limit: 16+ for regular bikes, 18+ for e-bikes.

• Check the bike — Before unlocking, check brakes, tires, and seat.