The idea, which is popular in places like Amsterdam, is that commuters will hire the bikes to cycle short distances, for instance from the station to work. At the moment it's being introduced on a trial basis during European Mobility Week 2005. The wider aim is to promote sustainable trips to workplaces and schools across Europe by encouraging alternative modes of transport such as cycling, walking, public transport and car-pooling. It's also hoped that a move away from car use will reduce traffic congestion and transport-related greenhouse gases. OYbike
 | | Salford and Manchester councillors |
Oybike is a street-based rental station network allowing people to hire and return one of the distinctive yellow bicycles 24 hours a day via their mobile phone. From 16 to 22 September, the following OYbike locations will be in operation in Manchester city centre: • Outside Victoria Station
• Outside Piccadilly Station
• St Peter’s square, Metrolink stop
• St Ann’s Square
European Mobility Week runs from 16 to 22 September. | 
