What are the best practices for bike-sharing schemes in cities?

1 Define the goals and objectives

Before launching a bike-sharing scheme, it is important to define the goals and objectives of the project, and align them with the broader vision and strategy of urban mobility and behavioral change. For example, some common goals are to reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions, to promote public health and physical activity, to increase access and equity, and to enhance the livability and attractiveness of the city. The objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, and they should guide the design and implementation of the bike-sharing scheme.

2 Analyze the demand and supply

Another key step is to analyze the demand and supply of bike-sharing in the city, and identify the potential users, locations, routes, and patterns of bike trips. This can be done by using data from existing bike infrastructure, surveys, interviews, focus groups, or pilot projects, as well as by applying spatial analysis, geographic information systems, and modeling tools. The analysis should help to determine the optimal size, density, distribution, and type of bike stations and bikes, as well as the pricing, payment, and membership options, that will meet the needs and preferences of the target market segments.

3 Engage the stakeholders and users

A successful bike-sharing scheme requires the involvement and support of various stakeholders and users, such as the local government, transport authorities, bike operators, bike manufacturers, sponsors, advertisers, community groups, businesses, residents, tourists, and media. It is essential to engage them in the planning, design, implementation, and evaluation of the bike-sharing scheme, and to communicate the benefits, challenges, and opportunities of the project. This can be done by using participatory methods, such as workshops, consultations, co-creation, feedback, and campaigns, that will foster collaboration, trust, and ownership among the stakeholders and users.

5 Monitor and evaluate the performance and impact

Finally, it is important to monitor and evaluate the performance and impact of bike-sharing schemes. Begin by collecting and analyzing data on various indicators, such as the number of users, trips, bikes, and stations. Additional indicators can be distance traveled, hours, revenues, and costs. Likewise consider satisfaction, safety, reliability, or environmental and social benefits. These measures can help to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the bike-sharing scheme, identify the strengths and weaknesses, track the progress and achievement of the goals and objectives, and provide feedback and recommendations for improvement or expansion.