PikeRide bike sharing program hits the road in Colorado Springs

After more than four years of planning, a new bike share program called PikeRide is up and running in downtown Colorado Springs as of Tuesday.

The program officially launched with a community ride.

“When our visitors come to Colorado Springs, they’re going to be amazed at the bikes,” said rider Holly Kortum.

PikeRide has 26 downtown locations to make it easy to pick up and drop off. It also gives riders a chance to experience the town on two wheels. More than 200 bikes will be placed at the stops, with numbers varying by location. ( MAP )

“It’s a great way to have people experience the city and not be in cars, and reduce congestion and traffic,” said rider Casey Chinn.

The bike features extra large handlebars with a panel that includes several different options, including maps, language, and bicycle settings. To take part, you pay using your phone.

Now Colorado Springs is one of them, joining others like Denver and Boulder, but riders say the panel makes a difference.

“Our technology, we get to leapfrog Denver and Boulder,” said Chinn.

That technology allows PikeRide to closely monitor the locations of the bikes so they aren’t dumped, a problem other cities have experienced.

“I’m really excited about the touchscreen and the map option that is on the bikes,” said Christopher Aaby.

“Then there’s a GPS system in the front of the bike which really helps track,” Kortum said.

If it’s successful, PikeRide organizers hope to expand to other parts of the city.

“You just download the BCycle App and it’ll take you straight to Colorado Springs and you can see where bikes are and you can check it out from there,” said Jole Nesmith, Executive Director for PikeRide. “You can sign up on your phone.” (Click HERE for Apple and HERE for Android)

“Every great city has bike share,” said Warren Epstein, another rider.

The cost is $2 for a 30-minute ride or $90 for an annual membership.