Comment 118850

By Gregory (registered) | Posted May 27, 2016 at 11:53:28

Forgot to mention SoBi (shame on me)

In Hamilton we already have some experience with a bicycle program.  SoBi, essentially a 750 commuter style bike system with one gear and a basket in the front. It includes lights as well as a solar powered GPS device. People can rent a Sobi for about $4 per hour or purchase an annual membership ($85/$125) granting them 60 or 90 minutes of use per day. The great thing about this program, aside from providing an alternative way to get around, is the “heat” map. The GPS provides a view of where the bike travels and how often. As a result we know where people start and end their trips as well as the route. This is very useful information for Road Planning purposes, but can also be used to extrapolate the potential of a wider program. Consider that SoBi users currently put up with inclement weather as well as winter conditions. This all happens on existing roadways and cycling infrastructure. Imagine the potential with a much more extensive cycling oriented roadway design. The biggest win for SoBi users is the elimination of parking concerns as well as bicycle security and maintenance. A great model, but not for everyone due to the weight of the bike. Perhaps an electric assist version is on the horizon?

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