Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to wear a helmet?

It is strongly recommended that cyclists wear a helmet when riding an electric bike. Helmets should be fitted securely and can help to protect yourself in case of an accident.

What are The Highway Code rules for cyclists?

In accordance with Rule 64 of The Highway Code, cyclists must not ride on pavements. E-bikes are permitted to ride on roads and shared paths only. Please do not start your ride on the pavement and at the end of your journey please dismount before entering the docking area.

Where can I read The Highway Code?

You can read The Highway Code on the government website. There is a dedicated section on rules for cyclists.

Can I take an e-bike home?

No, please do not keep a Beryl e-bike at home.

I’ve been involved in an accident, what should I do?

Firstly, make sure that you and anyone else involved are safe and if possible, off the road. Call the emergency services on 999 if anyone is in need of immediate medical attention.

Please contact the Beryl team (either phone +44 20 3003 5044, or via the in-app chat) as soon as possible once you are in a safe location and emergency services are at the scene.

Why have some Beryl bays been removed?

Beryl is consolidating its operation in Plymouth, bringing the e-bikes into the areas where they are most used and removing bays outside these locations. For up-to-date information on the live bays and the service area, please always refer to the Beryl app.

In the first two years of operation, there were 27,773 users of the e-bikes and over 213,000 journeys taken. The data from the bikes show that the average ride is 1.4 miles and 15 minutes long, with the most popular areas, by far, being the city centre.

Can I use a Beryl e-bike if I don't have a smartphone?

Yes, if you do not have a smartphone to download the app you can create a Beryl account through your web browser and unlock an e-bike via SMS.

What if I see an abandoned e-bike?

If you see a Beryl e-bike left in a way that is clearly causing a hazard, please contact support@beryl.cc or within the Beryl app.

Are Beryl bikes available through social prescribing?

Yes, Beryl are working with health professionals to provide free access to e-bikes for those who are prescribed it. For more information visit the social prescribing page.

How old do you have to be to ride a Beryl e-bike?

You must be 16 years old or over to ride a Beryl e-bike. 

Is it worth using an e-bike for commuting?

Using a Minute Bundle, the price to use the e-bikes for the average ride time of just under 20 minutes is under £3.  

How are the e-bikes maintained?

Bikespace, the on street team based in Devonport, look after the Beryl e-bikes. They service them, replace batteries and relocate them when needed.

Where can I read more information about the Beryl electric bike hire?

Beryl have their own FAQ page where you can find useful information on how to use the scheme.

Do I need my own car insurance?

No you do not need to purchase your own car insurance to use the car club. You are covered by Co Wheels insurance when you become a member of the car club.

Can I get a car club vehicle in my area?

The car club is still growing and there is a possibility a vehicle could be based in your area. Keep an eye on the map on the homepage for site locations. You can also contact Co Wheels to express interest in a vehicle in your area.

Where can I read more information about Co Wheels?

Co Wheels has their own FAQ page where you can find useful information about the car club.

Can I get an electric vehicle charging point in my area?

The EV charging infrastructure in Plymouth is still growing. Keep an eye on the map on the homepage for site locations.

You can suggest potential locations using our interactive map but please note suggestions are not guaranteed but will help to inform our rollout of EV chargepoints.

Where can I find more information about the latest EV charging trials for pavement channels?

Plymouth City Council is planning a trial of potential solutions for On-Street EV charging. We are exploring the possibility of cross-pavement EV charging channels. If you would like to be considered for this trial, go to the Plug in to Plymouth’s new EV charging trial webpage.

Where can I find out more about common EV misconceptions?

There is lots of information to help you boost your confidence around electric vehicles. The two websites below tackle a range of common misconceptions and myths about EVs.

Energy Saving Trust- Debunking Myths

UK Government- Common Misconceptions about EVs

Is there anything I can do if someone is using an EV charger that I need to use?

Yes, you can join the Need To Charge group which allows fellow EV drivers to communicate with each other about charging times.

Where can I read more information about electric vehicle charging infrastructure?

Our EV charge point provider Wenea have their own FAQ page which provides useful information on electric vehicles and how to charge them.