From chaos to order: China's new national shared bike standards

China’s shared bicycle industry, which facilitates over 120 million daily rides, is undergoing a regulatory shift with the introduction of a new national standard. This framework addresses persistent challenges such as sidewalk congestion, uneven fleet distribution, and the prevalence of non-functional bikes. Key requirements mandate that operators employ dedicated maintenance staff, implement real-name registration, and utilize geofencing technology to ensure bikes are parked in designated zones. By standardizing operational protocols—including mandatory staff training, uniform bike identification, and 24/7 customer support—the regulation aims to transition the industry from rapid, chaotic expansion to a more refined, high-quality service model. These measures resolve the friction between urban convenience and public space management, ensuring that the infrastructure remains a reliable "last-mile" solution for city commuters while curbing the issues associated with abandoned or broken equipment.