Happy 4th Birthday, New MOL Bubi! Budapest’s Green Bikes Keep Rolling
If you’ve been strolling along the Danube or weaving through the leafy boulevards of Budapest lately, you’ve probably spotted the unmistakable green bikes zipping by with a cheerful bell and a flash of eco-friendly style. That’s right—MOL Bubi, Budapest’s beloved bike-sharing service, is celebrating the fourth birthday of its grand relaunch, and the city is more pedal-powered than ever.
From Humble Beginnings to a Two-Wheeled Revolution
Let’s take a quick ride down memory lane. MOL Bubi first hit Budapest’s streets in 2014, but it was the 2021 revamp that truly put the wind in its wheels. With a new generation of lighter, sleeker bikes and a much simpler rental system, MOL Bubi 2.0 quickly became a citywide sensation. Suddenly, everyone from students to businesspeople were hopping on green bikes for their daily commute, errands, or a spontaneous riverside adventure.
The numbers don’t lie. Since the big upgrade, usage has skyrocketed five to eight times over the early years. On the busiest day last year—May 10, 2024—nearly 18,000 rides were logged. That’s a lot of happy cyclists and a lot of calories burned, all while helping Budapest breathe a little easier.
A Network That Never Stops Growing
One of the secrets to MOL Bubi’s runaway success? The ever-expanding network of stations. Today, you can pick up and drop off a bike at 222 locations across the city, with a whopping 2,460 bikes in circulation. The latest additions have popped up in Újbuda, which has become the “Bubi capital” of Budapest, boasting more stations than any other district. Whether you’re in the heart of downtown or exploring the city’s up-and-coming neighborhoods, there’s always a green bike within reach.
And if you think the system is impressive now, just wait for what’s coming. Budapest’s transport masterminds at BKK are already working on the next big leap: Bubi 3.0, set to launch in 2026. This new era will bring twice as many bikes—including at least 1,000 electric-assist models—and five to six times more docking points. The service area will expand by more than 80 percent, reaching far-flung corners of the city like Örs vezér tere, Kőbánya-Kispest, Újpest-városkapu, Angyalföld, Zugló, and even Őrmező.
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The Secret Sauce: Why Everyone Loves Bubi
What’s behind the Bubi boom? For starters, the bikes themselves have gotten a major glow-up. The latest models are lighter and easier to handle, so you don’t need to be a Tour de France contender to enjoy a spin. The rental process is now fully digital—just a few taps on your phone and you’re off, wind in your hair and the city at your feet.
But it’s not just about convenience. Bubi has become a symbol of Budapest’s commitment to sustainability, health, and urban fun. Locals and visitors alike have embraced cycling as the smart, green, and surprisingly speedy way to get around. Whether you’re racing to a meeting, heading for a picnic on Margaret Island, or just exploring the city’s hidden gems, Bubi makes it all possible.
What’s Next? The Future Is Electric (and Even Greener)
The birthday candles are barely out, and MOL Bubi is already gearing up for its next act. Bubi 3.0 promises to be a game-changer, with a fleet of at least 5,000 bikes, a massive expansion into new neighborhoods, and a big push for electric-assist cycles. Imagine cruising up Budapest’s hills with a little extra power, or zipping across town without breaking a sweat.
The city’s planners are making sure the system will be flexible, affordable, and ready for whatever Budapest’s cyclists dream up next. The upcoming expansion will make it easier than ever for tourists to grab a bike at a Mobi-point, connect with metro stations, and see the city like a local—no traffic jams, no stress, just pure pedal-powered joy.
Join the Ride: Budapest Awaits
So, if you’re visiting Budapest, don’t just watch the green bikes go by—jump on and join the fun! MOL Bubi is more than a bike-sharing service; it’s a rolling invitation to experience the city’s best sights, sounds, and flavors at your own pace. Celebrate the big four with a ride along the Danube, through the city’s bustling markets, or around the leafy parks that make Budapest so special.
Here’s to another year—and many more—of happy cycling. Budapest’s green bikes are ready and waiting. All that’s missing is you.
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