Bangkok Smile Bikes
About
Bangkok Smile Bikes are available from five locations to cycle around Old Bangkok. Cyclists are required to stick to the prescribed route - a bike lane is marked out for most of it - but can stop providing the bikes are returned to the pick up point. A useful map of the route is provided with information about the places of interest. This is a good attempt by the city authorities to 'green' Bangkok, but the downside is that it is not possible to leave the bikes while visiting attractions. Bangkok traffic is not fully accustomed to the bikes, and uneven drain covers, streets stalls and parked cars on the route are obstacles to be negotiated. Currently the scheme is free, and there are plans to introduce a similar scheme on the Thonburi side of the river (2010). Take your passport as ID. -AH