How to use Capital Bikeshare
APRIL 16, 2024
We love our Capital Bikeshare fam! From riders to team members, it takes all of our passion, commitment, and love of biking (and yours!) to keep our bikeshare system running smoothly. Whether you’re just joining the family or you’re an avid rider in need of a little refresher, here’s a look at some best practices to help the Capital Bikeshare system work for our entire region.
Fit check
Our CaBi bikes have standard sizes, but all bodies are different. That’s why our bikes are adjustable, to help our community members ride comfortably and safely! Before you ride, make sure the seat is the right height for you: it should be at about hip height, so when you’re sitting on the bike, the balls of your feet can touch the ground. If your feet are flat – or if you’re on your tippy toes – keep adjusting!
The ol’ once-over
Before you ride, give your bike a check to make sure everything is in tip-top shape. Check tire pressure, and ensure the brakes are in good working order before you set off by giving them a good squeeze! If there are any issues, tap the “wrench” icon or use the in-app chat to let us know, and select another bike. This alerts our team that there’s a bike in need of maintenance. Our bike-loving staff service thousands of bikes per month to keep you riding, and we depend on community members to let us know when things need a little tuning up!
Teamwork makes the two-wheeled dream work!
Map it out
Not sure how to get to where you’re going? Open the app! It’s often safer to take a route that includes a bike lane. The CaBi app will display a route using bike lanes (when possible) to help you navigate to your destination. You can also use Google Maps or other GPS apps to find a way that uses bike lanes. Plan your ride by your comfort level: the best way for you to get there is the way that feels safe and fun!
Safety first
Before you head out, get familiar with the rules of the road! To help give you a head start, here are some tips to keep in mind:
-Ride in the direction of traffic.
-Follow all traffic signs and signals.
-Watch for pedestrians.
-Avoid riding on sidewalks or when you need to use the sidewalk, walk your bike.
-Don't ride distracted. Wearing headphones in both ears is illegal.
And remember: Capital Bikeshare encourages riders to wear a helmet when riding. Make sure that the helmet is sized appropriately and it’s best to buckle the chin strap.
Keep it courteous
As a part of the Capital Bikeshare fam, always make sure you’re looking out for the folks around you. Use hand signals to indicate your intention to move to both drivers and pedestrians. Need a refresher on hand signals? We’ve got you, fam:
- Left arm bent upwards at the elbow = turning right
- Left arm extended outwards = turning left
- Left arm bent down at the elbow = coming to a stop.
Be a pal and park it!
All bikeshare besties dock their bikes at a station for the next rider to enjoy. Remember to wait for the light to turn green at the docking station to ensure you’ve parked your bike. Riding an ebike? Remember that you can park the ebike within the service area for $2.