Mobikes (Photo/People's Daily Online)

A new bicycle-renting app was launched in Beijing on Sept. 1. The app, named Mobike, allows users to locate and reserve registered bicycles in their area.

Each Mobike bicycle is fitted with a special chip, GPS and sensors, which make it easy to locate, and which record the routes it travels. Using the app, riders can easily find the "Mobike" nearest to them. They then scan a QR code to unlock it.

Before riding away on a Mobike, customers need to register with their real names and ID card numbers, and pay a 299-yuan deposit. The rental fee is 1 yuan for every 30-minute ride.

A girl rides a Mobike. (Photo/Official website of Mobike)

Unlike public bicycles, which need to be left and collected in designated areas, Mobikes can be parked in any roadside public parking areas marked with white lines or any open areas that do not obstruct traffic. However, riders are not allowed to park the Mobikes in indoor or underground parking areas, residential areas or charging stations. The deposit can be returned to riders when they arrive at their destinations.

But who is responsible if a Mobike gets stolen? A Mobike company official said riders have no liability for theft as long as they lock the vehicles before walking away. However, if a bike is stolen after being left unlocked, the rider has to pay a fine of no less than 2,000 yuan, according to the usage rules.

There will be a total of 2,000 Mobikes available in Beijing. Currently, Mobikes can only be used within the fifth ring road due to their limited numbers.