In Oslo, there’s always something happening—and unfortunately, that sometimes directly affects our stations. Below, we’ve listed some of the reasons why the station you were planning to bike to is no longer available in the app.
Power outages
All of our stations require electricity, and sometimes a circuit breaker trips. We usually fix it quickly. In some cases, we need to find a new power source, which can take time since it involves locating one, making agreements, and possibly digging a new power trench—no small feat in this city.
Battery issues
Where we can’t connect to a fixed power supply, we’ve tested various battery solutions. Many locations weren’t initially feasible due to distance from power sources, so batteries opened up new possibilities. But they haven’t been a perfect solution. We tap into streetlights, which only charge the batteries when they’re on at night—assuming the streetlights are even working, which isn’t always the case. And in summer, there are fewer hours of darkness, meaning some batteries just don’t get enough charge.
Events
For large public events, we either make agreements with the organizers or voluntarily close nearby stations. Sometimes because they’re within restricted areas, other times because stations and bikes simply get in the way. Luckily, these closures are short and well-managed.
Ants
Yep, it’s true! Ants are attracted to the warmth inside the station pillar and end up damaging the electrical system. Annoying little troublemakers.
Vandalism and collisions
Even more frustrating are people who deliberately damage stations—unfortunately, they exist. And occasionally, stations are hit by vehicles. That happens too.
Roadwork and upgrades
Oslo’s streets, sidewalks, and public spaces are constantly being improved, and sometimes our stations are in the way. In such cases, we have little choice but to close or temporarily remove the station. Fortunately, we’re almost always able to reinstall it once the work is completed.
Construction activity
When entire buildings are being renovated or constructed, developers need space for cranes, trailers, access routes, and more. If our stations are in the way, we usually receive a polite but firm request to remove them during the construction period. This can last weeks, months, or even years.
Poor signal
Each of our stations has a SIM card that communicates with our server to register bike check-ins and check-outs. If the signal is poor, we can’t receive this data, which causes system issues—not fun for you or us. In such cases, we close the station until we can fix the problem.
Security
With the new Government Quarter under development, barriers and security checkpoints will be installed where many of our stations are currently located. We don’t yet know exactly what will happen, but we’re working to preserve or relocate as many stations as possible.
Permit expiration
In some cases, the Planning and Building Agency only grants temporary permits for stations, meaning they must be removed after two or three years. This usually happens in areas with ongoing development, such as Bjørvika and Skøyen. We always try to extend the permits, and most of the time we succeed—but these stations ultimately exist at the mercy of others.