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Chicago Bike Share Nears Launch As Program Announces Bike Stations And Membership Options

Chicago's Bike Sharing Program Is Almost Here
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An army of blue bikes rolled into town over the Memorial Day weekend as the launch date of Chicago's first large-scale bike share program creeps closer.

Participants in the annual Bike the Drive event got a preview of the Divvy bikes, which made their first public debut Sunday at the Memorial Day weekend fundraiser.

Divvy teased the weekend arrival of the bikes last Friday via Twitter:

StreetsBlog Chicago's Steve Vance tested the rides and wrote the adjustable Divvy bikes are "good-looking, sturdy, and comfortable," adding the bikes "weigh about 45 pounds." According to the Tribune, CDOT leaders hope Divvy takes off as a "popular 'bike taxi' option for short trips."

This weekend, the Chicago Department of Transportation also debuted a map of the 75 initial bike stations and projected stations that may be installed in the future.

According to the map, the docking stations will be heavily concentrated in the early phases near downtown transit hubs like Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center, Metra's LaSalle Street station, Millennium Station and Millennium Park as well as Navy Pier, the Museum Campus and the McCormick Place Metra station.

(See CDOT's map of Divvy Bike Share's initial 75 locations.)

Additionally, Divvy announced via Facebook founding memberships for the service are set to go on sale later this week.

For a $7 daily pass or $75 yearly membership, users can pick up a Divvy bike from a self-service docking station for unlimited trips up to 30 minutes each; after the ride, bikes can be returned to any other station near their destination.

Funded by a mix of TIF money and federal grants, the budgeted cost is roughly $22 million and is "expected to pay for itself" over time, according to CDOT. The program is slated to expand each month, totaling 4,000 bikes at 400 solar-powered locations in city neighborhoods by spring 2014.

Divvy hasn't offered up a firm start date ("Summer 2013" and "June" were as specific as they've been) but seeing as both benchmarks are on the horizon, expect to see the blue bikes on the street in the next few weeks.

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Before You Go

How To Bike Commute Like A Pro
Make It Work At The Office(01 of06)
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There's an old saying that a journey starts with a single step. With bicycle commuting, your journey begins with deciding what happens once you arrive. The first thing you need is a secure place to park your bike at work. Bikes tend to get in the way indoors, so keep yours out of hallways where people might knock it down or get their clothes greasy. A back room or storage area might work, but your best bet is probably outside — a covered location, if possible — with something solid for a locking support. Mornings are the coolest time of day to ride, but depending on the length of your commute, you may want a place to change or freshen up. Talk to your employer about your plans and the possibility of setting up a bike-to-work program. If there are no suitable facilities where you work, look for a public washroom (or even a gym shower) within easy walking distance of your destination. You really don't need much: just some privacy and room to change. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="12" data-vars-position-in-unit="20">Flickr</a>:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/48600098077@N01/6758319657" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="orijinal" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/photos/48600098077@N01/6758319657" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="13" data-vars-position-in-unit="21">orijinal</a>)
Are You In Good-Enough Shape?(02 of06)
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Probably so. Whether you're a casual commuter or a pro bike racer, cycling is all about pace. The biggest mistake made by beginner cyclists is pushing too hard. Regardless of how many "speeds" your bike might have, choose a midrange gear in which you can comfortably turn the pedals at 70 or 80 revolutions per minute. Over mixed terrain, use your gears to maintain this rhythm. This is the secret to efficient cycling. Spin — don't grind. Commuting should be a gently aerobic activity. If you're feeling winded, ease back. As your fitness improves, you'll be able to turn bigger gears at that 70 to 80 rpm cadence. Ride for pace, and the speed will come naturally. As with all exercise regimes, consult your physician or primary care-giver before getting started. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="9" data-vars-position-in-unit="17">Flickr</a>:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/10812336@N02/6076423993" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="nycstreets" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/photos/10812336@N02/6076423993" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="10" data-vars-position-in-unit="18">nycstreets</a>)
Key Consideration: Route Planning(03 of06)
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The shortest way to work may not be the best. Scout roads with marked bicycle lanes. If none are available, look for routes that avoid overly narrow roads, tricky intersections and open storm gratings. Routes through residential areas are pleasant and usually have the benefit of less traffic. But keep in mind that people are heading to work at the same time you are, and the most dangerous place on the road for a cyclist is the foot of a driveway. Watch for distracted drivers backing into the street. Avoid the temptation to hop up onto a sidewalk: it decreases the time a car has to spot you, and bikes are a hazard to pedestrians. Once you've found a good route — find another. Part of the fun of cycling is slowing down enough to really see things. Vary your commute and keep things fresh. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="7" data-vars-position-in-unit="15">Flickr</a>:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/61204891@N03/8662877310" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="European Cyclists&#x27; Federation" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/photos/61204891@N03/8662877310" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="8" data-vars-position-in-unit="16">European Cyclists' Federation</a>)
It's Not About The Bike ... Entirely(04 of06)
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As Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong pointed out in his autobiography, it's not about the bike. You can commute on anything — but the right equipment will certainly make your experience safer and easier. If you're going to be riding before the sun is fully up or after it sets, you must have lights. Most municipalities have specific regulations about the degree of lighting required by night-riding cyclists, and common sense dictates you get as bright as possible. Here's the good news: a properly lit cyclist in reflective clothing is generally more conspicuous than a daytime rider. Whether they're legally required or not, ride with an approved and well-fitting helmet. A "lid" can be the difference between a scraped knee and a hospital stay. Or worse. We'll discuss the selection of commuter-specific bicycles in future articles. But rain fenders and a good bike rack will keep you cleaner and make your bike more useful. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="5" data-vars-position-in-unit="13">Flickr</a>:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/33917831@N00/5492924742" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Orin Zebest" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/photos/33917831@N00/5492924742" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="6" data-vars-position-in-unit="14">Orin Zebest</a>)
Choosing What To Carry(05 of06)
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Some commuters cycle in their work clothes. Depending on the length of your ride, your fitness and local climate, this might be an option for you. Not all of us live in a cool, flat place like Holland, so you may need to carry a change of clothes on the bike. A towel and a washcloth in a ziploc bag will make freshening up a breeze, along with whatever cosmetics or personal items you'll need for the day. It's smart to learn how to change a tire. Most bike shops will be happy to show their customers the ropes, and it's a quick roadside job once you're in the know. You'll need a flat kit: a spare inner tube, two or three tire levers, and a rag to check the inside of your tire for glass. There are also flat-resistant tires and tubes. They're a bit heavier and more expensive than their conventional equivalents, but well worth the money. Buy an impressive lock. Kryptonite is the dominant manufacturer in this field. In any case, look for a case-hardened chain or heavy aircraft cable model. Bicycle locks can be defeated, but a sturdy chain wrapped through your frame, both tires, and a secure anchor will make your bike much less attractive to a casual thief. Finally, carry water. You should drink regularly while riding — at least one standard water bottle per hour. Diluted sport drinks work well, too. If you're thirsty, you're not drinking often enough. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="2" data-vars-position-in-unit="10">Flickr</a>:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26325011@N00/8561271659" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Noah Sussman" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26325011@N00/8561271659" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="3" data-vars-position-in-unit="11">Noah Sussman</a>)
Enjoy Your Ride!(06 of06)
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Traveling by bicycle is a healthy and environmentally friendly way to move around. Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine — and check back for more tips on cycle commuting bikes and gear. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="0" data-vars-position-in-unit="8">Flickr</a>:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/78428166@N00/8177381649" role="link" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Tobyotter" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5be2130ae4b0aeaf24c5d709" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/photos/78428166@N00/8177381649" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="1" data-vars-position-in-unit="9">Tobyotter</a>)
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