Navigating the bustling city of Los Angeles just got easier and more eco-friendly with Metro Bike Share. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, Metro Bike Share offers a convenient and affordable way to explore the city on two wheels. Getting started with a metro bike is simple – here’s how you can quickly hop on and ride.
Getting Started with Metro Bike Share: Your Quick Guide
Using Metro Bike Share is straightforward and designed for ease of use. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you rolling:
Sign Up and Registration: Joining the Metro Bike Community
First things first, you’ll need to sign up. To become a Metro Bike Share rider, you must be at least 16 years old and have a TAP account linked to a valid credit card. If you’re already a TAP cardholder, simply sign in to your account and register your card for Metro Bike Share. New users can easily purchase a TAP card during the enrollment process. This ensures a seamless experience for accessing metro bikes across the city.
Checking Out Your Metro Bike: Ready to Ride
Once you’re registered, accessing a metro bike is a breeze. You have two primary options for checkout:
- TAP Card: Simply tap your registered TAP card at any Metro Bike Share station to release a bike.
- Metro Bike Share App: For even greater convenience, download the official Metro Bike Share app. The app allows for mobile checkout and provides real-time information on bike and dock availability.
To find the nearest metro bikes, utilize the interactive station map available on the Metro Bike Share website or directly within the mobile app. These tools show you exactly where bikes and docks are located in real-time, making it easy to plan your ride.
Riding and Returning Your Metro Bike: Essential Tips
Now for the fun part – riding! Before you set off, remember safety first: always wear a helmet. While enjoying your ride, never leave your metro bike unattended. It’s crucial to always return your bike to an official Metro Bike Share station or a designated docking area when you’re finished.
To avoid any additional charges, ensure you return the metro bike undamaged and within the allowed check-out time frame specified in your pass. Returning your bike responsibly ensures that metro bikes are readily available for the next rider and helps maintain the program’s efficiency.
Metro Bike Share Passes: Options for Every Rider
Metro Bike Share provides a variety of pass options to suit different needs, whether you’re a frequent rider or just need a bike for occasional trips.
Discounted Passes for Eligible Riders: Affordable Access
Metro is committed to making bike sharing accessible to everyone. Members of Metro’s LIFE (Low Income Fare is Easy) and Reduced Fares programs are eligible for significant discounts on Metro Bike Share passes. If you qualify for these programs, the discount is automatically applied when you purchase your pass.
Discounted pass prices include:
- 30-Day Pass Discount Price: $5.00
- 365-Day Pass Discount Price: $50.00
To determine if you qualify for these discounted rates, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Household income meets the LIFE program requirements.
- Senior citizen (62 years or older).
- Person with a disability.
- College or Vocational student.
- K-12 student (16 years and older).
These reduced fares make metro bikes an even more affordable transportation option for eligible Los Angeles residents.
Standard Metro Bike Share Pass Options: Flexibility for All
For those who do not qualify for discounted fares, Metro Bike Share offers standard pass options:
- 30-Day Pass: $17.00*
- This pass is valid for 30 days from the date of purchase.
- 365-Day Pass: $150.00*
- This annual pass is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
*It’s important to note that these prices are before discounts for LIFE and Reduced Fare program members. All passes include rides up to 30 minutes. Rides exceeding 30 minutes incur additional charges, typically $1.75 for each additional 30 minutes. These passes provide excellent value for regular users of metro bikes.
Electric Metro Bike Unlocking Fees: Savings for Pass Holders
An added benefit for 30-Day, 365-Day, and Reduced Fare pass holders is the waiver of electric metro bike unlocking fees. This makes exploring the city on an electric metro bike even more economical for frequent riders.
Metro Bike Share for Business: A Benefit for Employees
Employers looking to offer attractive and eco-friendly transportation benefits can take advantage of the Bike Share for Business program. This program provides discounted rates for employees, encouraging a healthy and sustainable commute option. Learn more about Bike Share for Business and how it can benefit your company.
Conclusion: Embrace Urban Mobility with Metro Bike Share
Metro Bike Share offers an efficient, healthy, and environmentally conscious way to navigate Los Angeles. With various pass options, easy access, and widespread availability of metro bikes, it’s an ideal choice for commuters, students, and anyone wanting to explore the city. Sign up today and experience the convenience of metro bike riding!
