Citi Bike Rental Guide
Whether you’re traveling to NYC for the first time or have visited several times, you're likely aware that Citi Bikes are scattered throughout the city and have become increasingly available. If you’re visiting New York City and want a fun and efficient way to get around, Citi Bike is NYC’s official bike-sharing system, with thousands of bikes across the city. Whether you're here for a few days or just looking for a quick ride, Citi Bike is a great alternative to walking or dealing with subway delays.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about renting a Citi Bike, including pricing, how to find a bike, and tips for a smooth ride. 🚲💨
Citi Bike operates through docking stations all over NYC, making it easy to grab a bike and ride wherever you need to go. To rent a bike, you’ll need either the Citi Bike app or the Lyft app (yes, you can rent Citi Bikes through Lyft!). Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Download the Citi Bike or Lyft App
Enable location services to find the nearest bike docks
2️⃣ Choose Your Bike
Classic Bike – The blue-colored bikes are regular bikes 🚴♂️
eBike – The grey-colored bikes are eBikes, which you can pedal lightly for a faster and smoother ride ⚡
eBike with QR code on the stem showing remaining battery miles
4️⃣ Return & Dock
Open your Citi Bike or Lyft app and find a station with empty docks so you can return your bike
Make sure to securely park the bike and verify that it beeps and locks before leaving to avoid extra charges
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Citi Bike offers flexible pricing whether you need a single ride or a full-day rental.
Non-Member Pricing
Single Ride: $4.99 + $0.38 per minute (classic or eBike)
Day Pass: $25 - includes unlimited 30-minute rides for 24 hours. Anytime your ride exceeds 30 minutes, you’ll be charged $0.38 per minute
Membership Options
Citi Bike Membership: $219.99/year - includes unlimited 45-minute rides on classic bikes, reduced prices for eBikes, free unlocks, and much more. After 45 minutes, it costs $0.25 per minute for eBikes.
Lyft Pink All Access: $199/year (includes Citi Bike perks and more!
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NYC has some biking rules to keep riders and pedestrians safe.
staying inside the bike lane
STICK TO BIKE LANES WHENEVER POSSIBLE
If the road is under construction, you may ride on the sidewalk temporarily.
However, keep in mind that sidewalks are meant for pedestrians, so make sure to get off the sidewalk once bike lanes are available again.
RIDE IN THE SAME DIRECTION AS TRAFFIC Wherever the direction the car is going, you’re going in that same direction. Don’t go in the opposite direction.
USE HAND SIGNALS
It's important to indicate where you're turning. While I personally don't always use hand signals, I do let others know which direction I’m going; it's beneficial for other drivers to know your intended direction, and maintaining good eye contact is essential.
NO TEXTING/TALKING WHILE BIKING
Similar to driving a car, avoid multitasking. If necessary, pull over to the side to take your text messages or phone calls.
ONE EARBUD ONLY!
Your safety and the safety of others is important. It’s essential to be able to hear emergency vehicles like fire trucks and ambulances when they are nearby. Additionally, if another car is approaching too closely, you need to be able to hear that as well. Remember, this is for your own safety!
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Q: Can I ride Citi Bike for free?
A: Some Citigold clients get a free 1-year membership. Check if you qualify!
Q: What happens if I go over 30 minutes?
A: You’ll be charged $0.38 per extra minute on a single ride or day pass.
Q: Why is Citi Bike so expensive?
A: Rising maintenance, insurance, and battery costs have led to price increases.
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riding the regular CitiBike at Governors Island
Citi Bike is a fun way to explore the city. Unfortunately, riding a Citi Bike is not as affordable as in other countries. The pricing has not been well planned, and it continues to rise each year, making it increasingly expensive.
However, I still believe it’s a great way to get around, especially during the summer or fall when you’re out with friends or trying to get from one destination to another. Just keep in mind that the costs can add up over time. If you're out with a group, consider whether it might be cheaper to use an eBike for a short distance or to take a Lyft or Uber together instead of riding Citi Bikes. Riding a Citi Bike doesn’t always mean it's the most economical choice!
I think it would also be great if they could change how they dock the bikes. For instance, implementing an electric charging dock could eliminate the need to take bikes to specific locations for charging. This could function similarly to the GoShare Gogoro rides in Taiwan, allowing users to switch the batteries of their electric mopeds and ride seamlessly without breaking the bank.
Right now, Citi Bikes are becoming quite expensive, but I hope they find a way to make it easier for locals to navigate the city and enhance the experience for visitors as well.
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check out my Taiwan travel vlog
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