Bike Sharing Systems: Pros and Cons

October 02, 2020

While traveling, we consistently look for a better and convenient method to navigate throughout the city. If we look at the recent rideshare innovation, we can see how popular these methods are becoming. For instance, bikes are available in many cities for ‘bike-sharing.’ How it works is a traveler can ride a bike as public transportation and pay a fee to use for a couple hours or for the day.

Just like any other transportation method, there are various pros and cons of bike-sharing that you should know before renting a bike. Many people agree that this method of transportation is of great help for visitors, but it is bound to have some flaws.

Here we will discuss its advantages and disadvantage so you can be prepared when you decide to use the bike-sharing system.

Advantages

1.      Convenient Mode of Transportation

The most common benefit of this program is its accessibility. If you are fond of cycling, you will find this method helpful as there are numerous systems just about everywhere for you to use. Bigger cities are supporting the use of bike-sharing. This is why it is common to find bike-sharing systems in downtown areas. Driving a car through congested avenues can be frustrating and irritating. This makes bike sharing very convenient.

2.      Healthy Method for Traveling

Wellness, fitness, and health are an essential part of your life. You should care about what you consume and what your daily activity is. Bike-sharing systems can help and encourage you to live a better and healthier life. They help you stay in shape even when you are away from home vacationing.

3.      Environmental Benefits

Maintaining a clean environment is as important as maintaining your health. Living in a heavily polluted environment can cause various health issues. Bikes do not release greenhouse gases, unlike buses and cars. So, if you are renting a bike from a bike-sharing system, you reduce the carbon footprint and take measures to keep your environment safe.

Disadvantages

1.      Congestion in the Users of Bike Sharing

As bike-sharing systems can help you travel throughout the city, they do not exist in infinite numbers. Waiting can be annoying if the bike is not available. You may face this problem during peak hours.

2.      A Helmet is a Requirement

When you are planning to ride a bike, you need to keep safety measures in your mind. Therefore, wearing a helmet is essential. Some bike sharing systems may require you to use a helmet but might not provide them for you. Sometimes you will need to bring your own which can be a hassle.

3.      Bikes Are Not Clean

Shared bikes can be unhygienic as many people have probably used it before you. The seat and handlebars are a particularly high-traffic area for germs, so cleanliness is always a concern.

Share Bikes Not Germs

If you are a bike lover, most likely you will consider renting a bike regardless of the disadvantages.  As you travel and share bikes with other people you will be exposed to their gems, so why not get yourself Pedaler handlebar covers?

Pedaler handlebar covers are transferrable and are easy to put on and take off. Most importantly they are machine washable! You can use them to avoid touching the handle and wash them for the next time you share a bike!

Browse our handlebar covers here! We have a selection of different colors for the whole family.

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