# Santander Cycles

> Transport for London

Canonical page: [https://chrome-stats.com/d/id974792287](https://chrome-stats.com/d/id974792287)

## Overview

- **ID:** `id974792287`
- **Platform:** Apple
- **Type:** Apple app
- **Status:** Available
- **Publisher:** TfL
- **Category:** Travel
- **Rating:** 3.80 / 5 (587 ratings)
- **Version:** 4.1.0
- **Last updated:** 2025-03-27
- **First published:** 2015-05-12
- **Size:** 96 MB
- **Data as of:** 2026-09-18
- **Store listing:** [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/santander-cycles/id974792287)
- **Website:** [https://www.tfl.gov.uk/santandercycles](https://www.tfl.gov.uk/santandercycles)
- **Privacy policy:** [https://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/privacy-and-cookies/](https://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/privacy-and-cookies/)

## Description

Santander Cycles is the self-service bike-sharing app from Transport for London for short journeys in inner London. The official app sends bike release codes straight to your phone, letting you unlock a bike at a docking station and get moving quickly. Simply register with your bank card, hire now from a nearby station, and follow the instructions to release a bike.

You can also see up-to-the-minute docking availability, plan journeys with an easy-to-follow map, receive cost notifications, view your recent journeys and charges, save favourite stations, and join London Rider challenges for a chance to win weekly prizes. Each bike release code is valid for 10 minutes. If there are no bikes at your chosen station, use the app to find a nearby one and request a new code. You won’t be charged until you use the release code. Age requirements: 18+ to hire, 14+ to ride. For full terms, visit tfl.gov.uk/santandercycles

## Rankings

- #74,161 — Overall

## Review summary

User reviews show Santander Cycles as a cheap and convenient London transport option, but the iOS app is plagued by reliability issues. Repeated logins, verification problems for international numbers, payment failures, and slow performance make it frustrating for many users. Support is often criticized for not addressing bugs quickly. The core service remains well‑regarded, but app reliability and international access are major concerns.

### Pros

- Affordable pricing for bike rentals (e.g., £1.65 for 30 minutes), making it a cost‑effective option.
- Convenient way to get around London via Santander Cycles.
- Some users report a positive experience when the app works, with bikes described as a good option for travel.
- In some cases, refunds/receipts are issued clearly when trips are canceled or issues occur.

### Cons

- Frequent logouts and required re‑login every time you use the app.
- International users (non‑UK numbers) face verification barriers, and SMS verification codes often fail.
- Multiple payment issues (several cards rejected, occasional double charges, and lack of Apple Pay/PayPal support).
- Slow performance, unresponsiveness, and crashes (e.g., when tapping or using the Favorites feature).
- Support is perceived as slow or unhelpful with persistent bugs not being fixed.

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Source: [Chrome-Stats](https://chrome-stats.com/d/id974792287)