FAQs
Below you will find answers to some of the questions we hear most often. Please use the menu on the right to navigate through the question topics. If you have a question that isn't addressed here, please contact us.
Questions about Hiring, Returning & Fault Reporting
Can anyone use Brompton Dock?
Yes but first you must register on our website to become a member.
How can I hire a bike from Brompton Dock?
Just follow our three easy steps explained here.
Please remember that you must check the condition of the bike (brakes, tyres, lights) within 15 minutes of removing the bike. If you find a problem with the bike, you must report the fault. Click here to see how you can report a fault. You will not be charged for the bike if you return it within 15 minutes.
What should I do if I find a fault on the bike I have taken from the bay or if I experience a fault with the bike in my possession?
Follow the instructions for returning a faulty bike on our how to use the dock page.
How can I return a bike to the dock?
Just follow the instructions on our how to use the dock page.
Where can I find the dock number?
You can find the dock number just above the keypad on the dock and on Our Locations page.
What happens if I fail to shut the door?
You must always shut the door immediately after taking out or returning a bike. Leaving the door open is a serious breach of Brompton Dock terms & conditions.
If you do not shut the door when you return a bike you will stay on hire and be charged until the door is shut.
Moreover, leaving a door open poses a serious security threat. Brompton Dock is aware that the door has been left open and by whom. If a bike is stolen or the dock damaged as result of not closing the door after use, a charge will be levied. Persistent failure to close the door will result in you being prevented from using the facility.
How long can I keep a bike?
When you register, you become a member for one year and you can bring the bike back anytime until your membership is over. You don’t have to notify us about when you will bring it back.
Can I use any Brompton Dock with my membership?
Yes, unless it is an exclusive network. The exclusive networks will be specified on our website.
Can I use Brompton Dock to store my personal Brompton?
No. You must only use Brompton Dock hire bikes. If you put any other Brompton in the Dock we can’t guarantee to get it back for you.
Questions about Tariffs, Payment & Billing
How much will I pay to hire a bike?
You will pay a yearly membership fee and hiring fees, which will vary according to the tariff you choose, how long you kept the bike or conditions of the exclusive scheme you are a member of. Find out more about our tariffs.
Can I change my tariff after using the scheme for some time?
No. You can only change your tariff on the anniversary of your membership
Will I pay the total amount of hiring fees when I bring the bike back?
No. Hiring fees will be charged to your credit card on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Click here to find out more.
Questions about Reserving a Bike or Bay
Can I reserve a bike or an empty bay to return my bike?
Yes you can. There are two ways to do this – up to one hour in advance, and for the next day.
What happens if I don’t take the bike I have reserved?
You credit card will automatically be charged as if you have hired a bike for one day.
How can I reserve a bike or an empty bay?
Follow the instructions on our reserve a bike or bay page.
Questions about the Docks
How can I find my nearest dock?
You can search for a dock online or using a smartphone with internet access.
If I have a problem at the dock or I notice something that should be reported what should I do?
Please phone us on the emergency number 020 3474 0700 or email us at support@bromptondock.co.uk
Questions about the Bikes
I don’t know how to fold/unfold a Brompton. How can I learn?
You can find folding/unfolding instructions on the docks. Additionally, we provide them as a folding brochure so that you can carry it around.
Alternatively, you can watch our videos on your laptop or smartphone.
I tried everything but I can’t fold/unfold the bike. What should I do?
Please call our emergency number, 0203 474 0700, and we will walk you through it.
Can I carry a Brompton on public transport?
Yes. Bromptons can be taken on trains, buses and underground as long as they are folded and stored in a safe and secure location.
Does Brompton Dock provide locks for Bromptons?
No because you wouldn’t need one. Bromptons can be folded into a briefcase size, so you can store it at home or under your desk in the office. DO NOT CHAIN OR LOCK YOUR BROMPTON DOCK BIKE ANYWHERE, there will be the risk of theft. Keep it with you at all times – its safer that way.
How do the lights work?
Brompton bikes come with dynamo lighting both front and rear to help you be seen. To turn both lights on there is a switch on the back of the front light. Lifting the switch to the top position marked ‘I’ will turn the lights on. The lights will come on as you pedal, the rear light will stay on for a few minutes when you come to a stop.
Why does my rear light stay on when I have stopped or finished using the bike?
The rear light is designed to stay on when you come to a stop so that you will be seen at traffic lights, for example. It will go out after a few minutes when the battery has run flat. There is no need to switch the lights off when you have finished with the bike.
Questions about Insurance
Is the bike insured if I am involved in an accident?
No. The bike is your responsibility once it is on hire. You may be covered by other types of insurance, but Brompton Dock does not provide insurance for bikes or members. Please make your own arrangements if you need insurance.
What happens if a bike in my possession is damaged beyond repair, lost or stolen?
You might have to pay up to £500. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.
DO NOT LEAVE A BIKE UNATTENDED, DO NOT LOCK OR CHAIN IT UP IN A PUBLIC PLACE.
What should I do if a bike in my possession is stolen?
DO NOT LEAVE A BIKE LOCKED OR CHAINED UP IN A PUBLIC PLACE. THERE IS A HIGH THEFT RISK WITH THESE BIKES.
However, if you do have a bike taken from your possession please let us know straight away by calling our emergency number, 0203 474 0700.
You must report the theft to the Police and obtain a Crime Number which you must provide to us.
All bikes are security registered and have secret markings. We will endeavour to recover the bike, but if we cannot, we will charge your credit card for the cost of a replacement bike at £500. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.
You may well be covered by your household or other insurance. Please make your own checks as to whether or not you have insurance cover. But Brompton Dock does not offer insurance for the bikes.
