Although HRMC have now stuck their oar in about the market value at the end of the scheme with the likelihood that many will have to pay more than they expected at the end of their 12/18 month 'rental' period to keep the bike. Now it's likely that you'll only save 10-15% which you can often negotiate in a bike shop in any case.

It was an excellent scheme though - helped me get my bike (still to make the final payment) and got me cycling to work.

As for the Boris bikes, I have a token to use them but so far have always had my own bike to hand when I've needed to. It's not that unreasonable for Boris to use his own for a commute rather than a hire one. While the hire ones are OK for short distances, they're never going to compare weight, gears, comfort-wise to a decent commuting bike that's been set up for you specifically.