What is Bicycle Sharing

Bicycle sharing has transformed communities since the 1960’s. However, it was not until the Velib launched in Paris, France in 2007 that the concept reemerged as a viable transportation solution to complement other modes of transit.  Finally technology was developed to support the concept of bicycle sharing allowing users to check bicycles out with debit/credit cards and have automated locking mechanisms to secure the bicycles of the system.  The Velib offered 20,000 bicycles at thousands of docking stations which allows residents to flow freely through the streets of Paris for their daily commute, errands or a way to enjoy the city.

Bicycle sharing is a way to provide residents, visitors and commuters with a large fleet of bicycles located at a variety of stations at key locations throughout a city. The bicycles are always well-maintained and ready to ride. These bikes are available for a very low cost to each member (both daily or annual members)  because each bike is shared by many people every day. Bicycle sharing programs provide transportation when you need it, and gone when you don’t.  It provides the perfect compliment to your feet, your car, your bus stop, subway or train and even your personal bicycle! It offers traffic congestion, health and economical benefits to the communities that these programs operate in.

As the idea took flight in Europe and Asia, Gravity Cycles closely monitored these programs and visited many of them abroad.  Soon the United States begun to see the benefits of bicycle sharing and many cities and interested companies rallied to the call and the need to make a change.  In just a years time, we have gone from three large scale municipal bicycle sharing programs in the United States to over a dozen…and counting! Of which Gravity Cycles have been a part of many of those projects during the research and planning phases. Gravity Cycles is currently involved with the system roll out in Boulder, Colorado for the past two years.  Many cites are now actively participating in making bicycle sharing a priority.  Many other programs will be launching in the next few years. Currently New York City and San Francisco are in the final phases of  revamping their infrastructure to accommodate their upcoming programs. It is an exciting time for bicycle sharing!