ClujBike: How to access and use the service.

Published by:

Aaron Roberts

Published on:

July 29, 2017

Last Updated:

Aug 1, 2025 @ 4:51 pm

Tags:

Bike Sharing, Bikes, ClujBike, Commute, Cycling, Exercise, Fitness, Free Bikes, Health, Travelling

Short link:

https://clujxyz.com/ku1jd4

ClujBike is the city’s public bike-sharing system, offering an easy, cost-free alternative to cars or buses. It’s run by the municipality and has been operating since 2015 as part of a broader push to reduce traffic congestion and lower emissions.

Whether you’re commuting, exploring, or just enjoying a sunny day, ClujBike is a practical and green way to get around town.

How It Works

Cluj-Napoca and nearby areas like Florești and Apahida are dotted with dozens of self-service bike stations. Once registered, you’ll receive a contactless card that lets you unlock bikes directly from these terminals.

Each ride is free for the first 60 minutes. You can take as many rides as you like in a day—just return the bike to any available station within the hour.

Need to ride longer? That’s fine too, but small usage fees will apply based on how much time you go over. These are automatically calculated and can be paid online.

Once you’ve returned a bike, you’ll need to wait 10 minutes before borrowing another.

How to Register

Go to portal.clujbike.eu and create an account. You’ll need to provide a valid email address and your Romanian CNP from your ID or residency permit.

The website is in Romanian by default, but you can switch to English using the language selector at the top.

Step 2 – Visit a City Office

Online registration alone isn’t enough. To activate your account and receive your card, you’ll need to visit the Citizen Information Centre or a district city hall in Cluj-Napoca.

Bring your ID card, a photocopy of it, and be ready to sign a 4-year rental contract. While some staff may speak English, it’s a good idea to bring someone with you if you’re unsure.

Step 3 – Activate and Ride

Once your card is issued, you’ll receive a PIN via email. This is used alongside your card to unlock bikes at any terminal.

It’s recommended to head to a nearby station and test your card once it’s activated.

Using the Bikes

At the terminal:

Tap your ClujBike card under the screen.
Enter your PIN when prompted.
Choose an available bike with a green light.
Tap your card on the reader next to the bike and wait for the beep.
Pull the bike out and you’re good to go.

To return:

Find a free slot with a green light.
Tap your card on the slot’s reader.
Slide the bike in until it locks securely and the light turns orange or green.
Always double-check that the bike is fully docked before leaving.

Service Hours & Winter Break

The system runs daily from 6:00 AM to midnight, year-round. However, the service may be paused during the winter months (December–February) due to weather. During this time, bikes undergo seasonal maintenance.

Apps & Station Info

While there’s no official ClujBike app, the Tranzy app is a popular choice for checking bike availability and station locations in real-time. Just note that you shouldn’t log in with your ClujBike account credentials—Tranzy is third-party and doesn’t require them.

What If Something Goes Wrong?

Lost card or bike? Call the support centre as soon as possible.
Need help? The ClujBike support line is generally staffed with English speakers.
Bike damaged or not working? Return it to the nearest station and notify support.

Things to Keep in Mind

One person = one bike. You can’t borrow multiple bikes with a single card.
Bikes are for personal use only—no passengers, racing, or stunts.
You must be at least 14 years old to register.
Don’t ride under the influence, and avoid using bikes during storms or strong winds.
If the station is full, use the interactive map or terminal to find the nearest station with free slots.

Overdue Bikes & Penalties (In Short)

ClujBike is free—as long as you play by the rules. If you return a bike late or lose it, you may face the following:

Small late fees if you go over 60 minutes.
A 100 lei fine if the bike isn’t returned by midnight.
Up to 837 lei compensation for lost or damaged bikes.
Temporary suspension of your card for repeated violations.

The good news? All of this is easily avoided by keeping track of time and returning bikes properly. If there’s ever a problem, support is responsive and helpful.