What is bike share?
Louisville’s first bike share system will launch this spring, as announced by Mayor Greg Fischer last week. It’s an exciting addition to our thriving city but – as with anything new – you likely have questions. We’re here to help! Send us your queries @LouVeloBikes on Twitter and Facebook. In the meantime, let’s start with the basics.
What is bike share?
Bike share is an innovative transportation option, which provides city residents and visitors with a quick, fun and affordable way to get around town. Designed with short trips in mind, users can pick up a bike at any self-serve station and return it to any other bike station located within the system's service area. Stations are dense – you’re never far away from one – and close to all of downtown’s amenities.
How will I know where the stations are?
You can check the system map on the LouVelo website, or download the CycleFinder or Transit App, which will show you where your nearest stations and bikes are.
How much is it?
For a limited time ahead of launch, you can purchase an annual Founding Membership for $99, which comes with unlimited 60-minute rides. Prefer to pay as you go? You can buy 30-minute rides for just $3. More membership options will be made available following launch.
How do I sign up?
Become an annual member, or buy casual ride time through the Transit App or LouVelo website. Once LouVelo has officially launched, you will also be able to purchase your ride time at any bike station kiosk around the city.
What are the bikes like?
These sturdy and comfortable little guys have some handy features. The passive GPS allows users to track personal cycling metrics (distance, average speed, elevation, calories, co2 reductions) as well as set goals and keep history via the CycleFinder app. A 10,000-hour lighting system sees lights stay active for 90 seconds after the bike has stopped moving. Each bike is also equipped with a chain protector to protect users’ clothes, a luggage carrier and a secondary lock, which allows users to park anywhere.
I have a car / bike. Why would I use bike share?
There are an estimated 260 million cars in the USA, but bike share thrives in cities all over the country. Whether you use bike share to commute to school, work or even to and from outings with friends, you don’t have to worry about traffic, parking, or getting stuck on the same old route. On a bike, you can twist, turn and duck through any side street, alley or park that piques your interest, and avoid common driving woes in the process.
Bike share can still be useful for bike owners, too. It saves the trouble of carrying a lock, or having to find a place to lock up. You needn’t worry about parts being stolen, and it’ll save unnecessary wear and tear on your own bike – our mechanics take care of every flat and repair. Late night? There’s no figuring out how to get your own bike home with bike share. Dock at a station, enjoy your evening, and catch a ride home with friends.
Do you have more questions? Ask away on Twitter and Facebook and we’ll cover them in an upcoming post.