Throughout the past few years a new form of transportation was introduced. This form is the bike sharing system. There are many different types of bike sharing systems with all different concepts but for NYC specifically the only known bike sharing system are the “Citi Bikes.” On the year 2013 Citi bike stations were implemented into the sidewalks with each having their own machine to pay or sign in to your account for the purpose of having access to a bike. For the first 3 years the revenue was really highand the bikes were in demand. As of 2017 even though the revenue is still high but the demand is slowly going down. Reasons why is because, yes, they are fairly cheap for the first 30 mins but after the fee of having it after the 30 mins, it can be argued it is not worth it for most people. There have been many complaints like when the station is full the rider is forced to wait until someone else takes out a bike and the rider will have to pay for the time of waiting even though he/she is not riding the bike. Another argument is the lost fee. Rented bikes can be lost or stolen and the rider who took out the bike will have to pay $1200 (+tax) for the bike. That is a huge price to pay for an accident.
There are positives though, for example to get to places, that are a short distance from each, Citi bikes are very convenient and the company has developed an app to track for stations with available space to drop off your bikes or even find a station near you. Till this day the app is getting improved on and asks for it’s riders to leave feedback in order to help Citi bike riders. But in the City of New York there are cars everywhere safety is always a huge concern. There are no helmets provided and they for sure not going to pay your hospital bills. There are too many risks with Citi bikes but the benefits is something to consider.
PROS:
-Cleaner Air
-Somewhat Cheap (Depending on how long it’s used) {$3 for 30mins and $15 a month}
-Convenient for short distances
-Easy to access
-Service keeps on improving
-Can save a lot of time
CONS:
-If lost there is a $1200 (+Tax)
-No safety equipment provided
-Will be charged as long as you are in possession of bike
-Bikes are for horrible to ride on a uphill
-”Docking” can be difficult
– Bulky
-Always reports of technical difficulties
Sources:
Motivate International, Inc. “Citi Bike Monthly Operating Reports.” Citi Bike NYC, www.citibikenyc.com/system-data/operating-reports.
Motivate International, Inc. “About Citi Bike: Company, History, Motivate.” Citi Bike NYC, www.citibikenyc.com/about.
