Revealed: new lighter and comfier Santander Cycles

A new fleet of lighter, comfier and more manoeuvrable hire bikes is on its way to London’s streets.

The upgraded Santander cycles, known as “Boris bikes”, boast smaller wheels, a lower frame, a new gear hub and an improved gel saddle.

The bikes begin to appear on London's streets from next year. After that, around 500 will be introduced each year as the older models are phased out.

The new bikes are being developed by Pashley Cycles.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan today said he is “delighted” to announce the next generation of the bikes, highly popular with both tourists and Londoners.

“It’s already known across the world as a convenient way to get around our city, so it’s great news that these lighter British-made bikes will make it even easier for everyone,” he said.

The bikes, which can be rented out and dropped off at docking stations around the city, were introduced in 2010 by Mr Khan’s predecessor as mayor, Boris Johnson.

Paul Cowperthwaite, Transport for London's General Manager of Santander Cycles, said: “We’ve had six successful years of London’s cycle hire scheme but we’re looking to the future and are excited to be able to bring the next-generation of Santander Cycles to London’s streets.”