Bike Sharing Launches in Aspen

Aspen is poised to become the 27th city in the nation, and first mountain town on the continent, to launch a bike-sharing operation. With 13 stations located throughout town, the self-service bikes offer a transportation solution for visitors and tourists, the Aspen Times reported. Riders can officially check out WE-Cycle bikes starting June 6, when the operation opens for business.

The WE-Cycle system, like most other modern-day bike-sharing programs, is designed for short, local trips. The fees after the 30-minute period give riders a strong incentive to return the bikes, but there is no limit on the number of trips per day or per pass. Pass prices start at $7 per day. Use for the first 30 minutes is free, but then it increases to $2 per hour.

A $500,000 electronic kiosk system was installed downtown to dock the three-speed bikes. The bikes are not meant to function as long-term bike-rental programs, but more to service commuters, locals and visitors. For more information, visit we-cycle.org.