Shared Bikes in China: How to Ride Meituan, Hellobike & DiDi

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

1. Find a bike — Look on sidewalks, near subway stations, popular destinations
2. Scan the QR code — Use the corresponding app or WeChat/Alipay
3. Bike unlocks — Lock opens automatically, rental begins
4. Ride — Stay within the designated operating area
5. Park and lock — Park in a designated area and lock the bike
6. 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.