As the temperature rises and that stubborn Montreal slush finally retreats into the sewers, a familiar sight begins to populate our street corners. You know the one: those sturdy, grey docking stations emerging like urban perennials. There is no clearer sign that spring has officially touched down in the 514 than the return of the BIXI.
If you’re currently scouring the web for quoi faire à Montréal, look no further. While we wait for the Jazz Fest and the Grand Prix madness to take over, the "Early BIXI Launch" is the true main character of the season. It’s that sweet window where the air is crisp, the sun is actually doing its job, and you can traverse the city without breaking a sweat or getting stuck in Orange Cone traffic.
But before you tap your Opus card or fire up the app, there’s a lot of history and "insider info" behind those two wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro who treats a BIXI like a Ferrari or a newcomer wondering why everyone is obsessed with a heavy bike, here are 10 things you should know about the BIXI launch and its legendary status in our city.
1. The Name is a "Portmanteau" (C’est Sophistiqué, Non?)
Have you ever stopped to wonder where the name "BIXI" actually comes from? It’s not just a random collection of letters that sounds cute in both English and French. The name is a clever mashup, a portmanteau, of "Bicyclette" and "Taxi."
Back in the day, when the system was just a glimmer in the city's eye, a public competition was held to name the service. A local legend named Michel Gourdeau submitted "BIXI," and the rest is history. For his contribution to the Montreal lexicon, Michel was awarded a lifetime BIXI pass. Talk about a "Main Character" reward. Imagine never having to worry about docking fees ever again. C’est le rêve!
2. We Were the OG Trailblazers
When BIXI launched in May 2009, it wasn't just another local project. It was a revolution. Montreal was the first city in North America to launch a large-scale bike-sharing system. We showed the rest of the continent how it was done. Before New York had their Citi Bikes or London had their "Boris Bikes," Montrealers were already pedaling through the Plateau and the Old Port.
Starting with a fleet of 3,000 bikes and 300 stations, BIXI established Montreal as a world-class leader in urban mobility. It’s a point of pride for us; while other cities were debating the feasibility of shared bikes, we were already out there getting our morning cardio in before hitting the best brunch spots in the city.
3. The Great Resurrection of 2014
It wasn't always smooth riding. In early 2014, the company originally behind BIXI, Public Bike System Company (PBSC), actually filed for bankruptcy. For a hot minute, Montrealers panicked. Would the stations stay empty? Would we be forced back onto the STM full-time? Quelle horreur!
The City of Montreal stepped in like a hero in a movie, purchasing the assets for $11.9 million and creating the non-profit BIXI Montréal. This move didn’t just save the system; it allowed it to evolve into the high-tech, electric-assisted beast it is today. When you see those blue electric bikes now, remember that they almost didn't exist.
4. The "Electric Blue" Evolution
Speaking of the blues, the introduction of the electric BIXI changed the game for anyone living north of Sherbrooke. Let’s be real: pedaling a 40-pound grey bike up the "mountain" (or even just the Berri hill) is a workout that most of us aren't prepared for on a Monday morning.
The electric bikes have made the city more accessible. They’ve turned a sweaty 20-minute commute into a breeze. If you’re looking for quoi faire à Montréal this weekend, I highly suggest grabbing an e-bike and heading up to the lookout at Mount Royal. All of the views, none of the leg day soreness. Just make sure you check the app first, those blue bikes disappear faster than a free sample at a boulangerie.
5. Over 65 Million Rides and Counting
The numbers are staggering. In its early years, the system racked up 65 million rides. Fast forward to today, and BIXI serves over 500,000 users across multiple cities (including Longueuil, Laval, and more). It has become an essential thread in the fabric of Montreal life.
It’s more than just a bike; it’s a culture. You’ll see businessmen in suits, students with oversized backpacks, and tourists looking slightly terrified as they navigate the de Maisonneuve bike path. It brings us all together in a shared struggle against the wind and the occasional rogue pedestrian.
6. The "Secret" Strategy: The App is Your Best Friend
If you’re still trying to pay at the kiosk like it’s 2010, you’re doing it wrong. The BIXI app is essential for survival. It shows you exactly how many bikes are left at a station and, more importantly, how many docks are free.
There is no greater Montreal tragedy than arriving at your destination with 2 minutes left on your timer, only to find the station is full. You end up frantically biking to the next station three blocks away, questioning all your life choices. Pro tip: Always have a backup station in mind. And if you’re looking to gear up for your rides, check out some lifestyle essentials at the MTL365 shop.
7. It’s Not Just for the Downtown Core
One of the best things about the BIXI expansion is that it has reached deep into the "hoods." From the Lachine Canal, which is arguably the most beautiful place to ride in the city, to the quiet streets of Rosemont and the vibrant corners of Verdun, the network is massive.
If you’re looking for a perfect Saturday activity, take a BIXI down the Lachine Canal, dock it near the Atwater Market, and grab some local treats. You can use our coupons for food and drinks to make a whole day of it without breaking the bank. It’s the ultimate "main character" vibe: wind in your hair, a baguette in your basket, and the Montreal skyline in the background.
8. Respect the "Code de la Route" (Please!)
Montrealers are known for being… let's say "assertive" on the road. But when you’re on a BIXI, you’re part of a community. The early launch brings out a lot of "rusty" riders. A quick refresher:
- Don't ride on the sidewalk: Seriously, c’est pas cool.
- Signal your turns: Even a little hand wave helps.
- Stop at red lights: I know, I know, but the SPVM loves a good ticketing spree during the launch month.
- Watch for car doors: The "Montreal Opening" is a real danger.
Riding responsibly ensures that the BIXI program stays in everyone's good graces. Plus, it keeps you in one piece so you can enjoy all the entertainment offers we have lined up for the summer.
9. The Economic Win-Win
Biking isn't just good for your glutes; it’s great for your wallet. With gas prices fluctuating more than the weather in April, a BIXI membership is the smartest investment you can make. It’s cheaper than a parking spot and infinitely more fun than being stuck in a metro tunnel during a "service interruption."
By choosing BIXI, you’re also supporting a local non-profit that keeps Montreal green. We love a sustainable king/queen! If you're looking to save even more, keep an eye on our coupon plans to stack those savings across all your Montreal adventures.
10. The Feeling of the First Ride
There is something genuinely magical about that first BIXI ride of the season. The air still has a bit of a bite, the city is waking up, and there’s a collective sense of "we made it through the winter." It’s a celebratory energy that you can’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re heading to meet friends for a 5-à-7 or just wandering the streets to see what’s new in your neighborhood, the BIXI is your golden ticket. It’s the freedom to explore every nook and cranny of this beautiful, chaotic island we call home.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Ride!
Montreal is a city meant to be experienced at the speed of a bicycle. From the murals on Saint-Laurent to the hidden alleys of the Plateau, there is so much to see. The early BIXI launch isn't just a transport update: it’s the official invitation to start living your best Montreal life again.
So, qu’est-ce que tu attends? Grab a helmet, download the app, and get out there. And if you need more ideas on how to spend your time, check out the rest of the MTL365 blog for the latest on food, festivals, and everything in between.
If you have any questions or want to share your favorite BIXI route, feel free to contact us. We’ll see you on the bike paths!
Bonne saison de BIXI à tous!
