LONDON — The city is launching a bicycle rental program in hopes of easing congestion in a European capital once known for its gridlock. London Mayor Boris Johnson, an avid cycling enthusiast, put 4,700 out of a planned 6,000 bikes on the road Friday. Under the program, cyclists will be able to borrow bikes from 400 docking stations throughout the city. At the start, only those who sign up for membership in advance will be eligible to take part. Membership costs 45 pounds a year, or about $70. Tourists or other casual users will not be eligible for at least a month. Read more at www.washingtonpost.com