Houston BCycle logs another month of record ridership in August 2020

Typically, bikes rent for $3 for 30 minutes, but the group noticed a trend of some bikes being improperly returned—not fully docked or simply left near a station—leading to racked up charges. It also noticed a specific increase in the use of prepaid debit cards, which could have limited balances leading a bike to be checked out and potentially never returned.

The new pre-authorization, which does not charge the card, is hoped to prevent this, Morris said. If riders see an improperly docked bike, they are asked to go ahead and dock it. Unattended bikes should be reported to 713-865-3662.

Riders can also purchase a membership plan for $13 a month for unlimited one-hour rides.

The organization did not readily have a report of the number of bikes lost, but Morris said more bikes are recovered than not.

BCycle's system of 111 stations and 800 bikes is slated to expand further in 2020, with 19 new stations planned as well as an expanded offering of electric bikes.