After you move to Madrid and get your transport card, you can use the public electric bike system. This system is called BiciMAD. It is a cheap way to travel around the city.
How BiciMAD works
BiciMAD operates thousands of electric bicycles across the city. The bikes are parked at specific docking stations. You can unlock a bike at one station and return it to any other station in the network.
All bikes are electric. The motor starts assisting you as soon as you begin pedaling. The speed is limited to 25 kilometers per hour.
You can identify the docking stations by their metal pillars and signposts. Every station has a screen showing instructions and docking availability.
How to use public transit in Madrid
Subscription options and costs
You must pick between two usage plans. You need a credit card or debit card to set up your account.
The annual subscription
The abono anual (annual subscription) is best if you plan to use BiciMAD regularly.
- Annual fee: €25 per year.
- First 30 minutes: €0.50 per ride.
- Next 30 minutes: €0.60 per ride.
- After 60 minutes: €4.00 per hour.
The occasional user plan
The usuario ocasional (occasional user) plan is best if you only want to use the system a few times. You do not pay an annual fee. You only pay for the time you ride.
- First 30 minutes: €2.00 per ride.
- Next 30 minutes: €2.00 per ride.
- After 60 minutes: €4.00 per hour.
How to register and rent a bike
You must download the official Mugi360 or BiciMAD app on your phone. You need a valid identity document to complete your registration.
Registration checklist
- A valid passport, DNI, or NIE number
- A credit or debit card
- A working smartphone with internet access
- A Spanish phone number (recommended)
Steps to rent a bike
- Open the BiciMAD app and create an account. Input your personal details and upload a photo of your identity document.
- Select your subscription plan and link your payment card.
- Use the app map to locate a nearby station with available bikes.
- Scan the QR code on the handlebar of the bike using your phone camera. You can also unlock the bike by tapping your physical transport card on the card reader behind the saddle.
- Wait for the green light to flash on the dock. Pull the bike out backward.
How to return the bike correctly
You must dock the bike correctly to stop the timer. If you do not return the bike to an official station, you will face a fine.
Steps to return the bike
- Push the front wheel of the bike into an empty slot at a BiciMAD station.
- Wait for the locking mechanism to engage.
- Look at the status light on the dock. It must turn green. If the light is red, the bike is not locked. Pull it out and try another slot.
- Check your phone app. You will receive a notification showing the ride duration and cost. This confirms your ride has ended.
Warning: Leaving a bike unlocked or parked outside an official station triggers a fine of €150. Always confirm the green light turns on.
Questions and answers
Do I need a Spanish NIE to register?
No. You can register with a foreign passport. Select the passport option in the registration screen.
Can I use the service at night?
Yes. BiciMAD operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Is wearing a helmet mandatory?
Yes. You must wear a helmet if you are under 18 years old. For adults, a helmet is only mandatory when riding on main interurban roads outside city limits. However, we recommend wearing one in the city.
What should I do if a bike is broken?
Report it. Lock the bike at the nearest station and press the red button on the dock. You can also report the issue via the mobile app.
