Ofo, Mobike, LimeBike, Oh my!
Published on: Tuesday, December 5, 2017 Public Notices

Ofo, Mobike, LimeBike, Oh my!

If you’ve traveled around Takoma Park during the past month or so you’ve probably noticed green, orange, and yellow bikes in all sorts of places. Montgomery County has partnered with several dockless bikeshare companies to increase access to sustainable transportation options in our area, and Takoma Park recently signed on to the agreement. Unlike Capital Bikeshare, the new dockless bikes do not rely on a fixed bike parking station and can be parked almost anywhere. Customers use a mobile phone application to locate a nearby bike with GPS. The process for using this new bikeshare is quick and easy. Although each dockless bikeshare company has their own process, many follow the same basic steps:

  1. Download the dockless bikeshare mobile application.
  2. Open the mobile application, create a profile, and locate a bike using GPS.
  3. Unlock a bike by scanning a code and start the ride.
  4. Park your bike in a responsible location and close your lock to end the trip.

For a complete overview of each we suggest you review their website (links below) or mobile applications.

The dockless bikeshare program in Montgomery County is still in the pilot stage and that means that their might be a few “speed bumps” along the way. It’s important to remember these best practices while you are using the dockless bikeshare.

Best Practice Tips:

  1. Please don’t block sidewalks or driveways when parking your bike. Dockless bikeshares only work if we all take responsibility and park in places that don’t block car traffic, impede pedestrian access, or encroach on private property. If you see a bike in a place it should not be, you can contact the individual companies:
  2. Feedback should be directed to the County’s 311 line at 311. This can be done by calling 240-777-0311 or visiting their website online.
  3. Visit the dockless bikeshare company’s website for more information. Whether you’re riding with LimeBike, Ofo, Mobike, or Spin, it’s important you review their FAQ information.
  4. Remember bike safety! Wear a helmet, reflective clothing, and obey all bike laws wherever you go.

We hope this brief overview will help make the dockless bikeshare pilot go smoothly. As always, if we all do our part and are respectful of other’s space and property we can make this program a success. Takoma Park has a strong commitment to both sustainability and access for all and we see these new bikeshare programs as a nice intersection of both. For further information or to submit a comment please visit Montgomery County’s website. Happy and safe riding!