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It's almost National Bike Month!
National Bike Month has taken place every May since 1956, and here at Biki we’re excited to be a part of the 69th year of this great tradition. We will taking part in Hawai’i Bicycling league’s many different events celebrating the bicycle all month long.
We’re super excited for these events and hope to see many of you Biki riders there. Check out the HBL website here for a full list of all the upcoming fun.
Find more information about which events we'll be attending follow us on Instagram @GoBikiHi. The first event of the month is a kick off party on May 4th at Thomas Square Park. See you out there!
The path to a happier and healthier community
If you’ve ever biked up a hill, you’ll understand the appeal of an electric bicycle! Say goodbye to burning quads and glutes and instead cruise to the top almost sweat-free.
With pedal-assist features powered by a small motor, e-bikes are changing the biking experience and making it more accessible for the elderly, people with long commutes, and the community at large.
Better Regulation is needed
However, alongside progress are growing pains. These little machines are powerful, and mostly unregulated in the state of Hawaii.
If you’ve had your eye on the news recently, chances are you’ve seen or heard about something related to e-bikes.
In August, the Hawaii Department of Transportation encouraged safe micro-mobility with e-bikes and mopeds through a rebate program. Or maybe you saw that just last month HPD started cracking down on e-bike violations.
This program’s goal was to promote the use of small low-speed vehicles as an alternative to automobiles for those who lacked transportation. For short trips these devices promote a healthier community and reduce traffic congestion.
The Rise of alternative transportation
With the rise of alternative transportation options there comes a lot of confusion about what’s legal and what isn’t.
You may have seen that just last month HPD started cracking down on e-bike violations. With the current definition of e-bikes, there’s some gray area between what is an e-bike and what’s an electric moped or motorcycle.
Obviously, mopeds and motorcycles would be subject to different rules on the road than e-bikes.
Bill 52 aims to better regulate e-bikes, define vehicle classes, and provide better guidance on safe practices for riders and the community at large. Thankfully, the City and County of Honolulu is moving to create a better framework for the use of e-bikes to help protect riders and the public around them. The new Bill includes a better definition for e-bikes that matches current industry standards and makes it clear what behavior is acceptable.
PeopleForBikes has helped draft a proposed definition which has been similarly adopted nationally in over 40 states. Now it’s looking like Hawaii is next.
Bill 52's Proposed Definition
The new definition specifically defines what the motor does and what speeds the e-bike can reach:
CLASS 1
A bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20mph.
CLASS 2
A bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20mph.
CLASS 3
A bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 mph.
What's Next?
This bill, if passed, will also regulate license and registration requirements for e-bikes and more clearly define appropriate usage. No more wheelies in the middle of an intersection!
Plus, Class 3 e-bikes would be subject to additional regulations and requirements such as age and equiptment restricitions. (Higher speeds mean higher responsibility.)
The hope is that these clearer definitions will make e-bikes safer for everyone to use and enjoy.
Playing Our Part
Of course, no matter what the law states, it’s our kuleana to make sure we’re riding responsibly and in a way that keeps ourselves and those around us safe.
As e-bikes become more commonplace and safer to use, we can take better care of the ʻāina and get people moving more!
With these new definitions some vehicles don’t fit as e-bikes or mopeds. These unclassified vehicles are capable of reaching higher speeds than e-bikes but without gear shifting or the wattage power associated with mopeds. It is unclear where these e-bikes such as Super73s and Sur-Rons you often see riding in traffic will fit within this new law.
We need to continue to evaluate if our laws are keeping pace with technology– while we’ve still got work to do, this is definitely a step in the right direction.
Interested in reading more? Check out the current version of Bill 52 here..
This year, Hawaii Bicycling League’s BikeEd program turns 35! You may be one of the 100,000 residents who went through the program in elementary school. But, for those unfamiliar, BikeEd is a 5-day course that teaches 4th grade students how to ride a bicycle, basic cycling safety, and laws of the road. Each year, HBL’s trained BikeEd instructors teach 8,000 students and serve more than 100 schools. We chatted with HBL’s Executive Director, Travis Counsell, to learn more about this successful program, and how BikeEd has benefited our community.
Photo courtesy of Hawaii Bicycling League
Photo courtesy of Hawaii Bicycling League
Q: Why is it important to encourage children to start riding bikes early?
Counsell: Riding a bicycle is a skill that can be enjoyed throughout life. There is ample research to suggest that staying active and healthy can have lifelong benefits, so best to start those habits early. By providing education during the formative years, we hope to create a solid foundation for smart, safe, and frequent bicycle riders.
Q: Is there a reason 4th graders are chosen to complete the course?
Counsell: 4th grade was chosen as that is the age where most children have learned how to bike, and some are starting to ride their bikes to school. The BikeEd program teaches the students how to safely ride their bikes to school, and teaches how to ride a bicycle for those who do not know how to ride.
Q: How does youth bike education benefit the community?
Counsell: Safe riding not only benefits the person riding the bicycle, but creates a safer community at large. We teach students to be more predictable in their riding, and be aware of the environment around them. Ideally these students continue incorporating bicycles into their lives as they get older, which will also lead to healthier communities. Graduates of the BikeEd program are now in City Council, State Legislature, and many other positions. By incorporating bikes into their education, ideally they'll have a broader understanding of how to support communities where there are safe and accessible options for people to walk, bike, and roll.
Q: How can a school enroll in this program?
Counsell: We work directly with 4th grade teachers at public, private and charter schools to schedule the 5 day course. We are currently at capacity, but do have a waitlist in case we have an opening. We also are expanding to offer summer programming. Interested schools or programs can reach out to bikeed@hbl.org.
Q: Anything else you want to share about this program?
This program is primarily funded through the City's Department of Transportation Services, however we do seek donations to help offset additional costs. This year is BikeEd Hawaii's 35th Anniversary! Perhaps you went through the program, or have a child that did, or just want to see more kids biking to school. We'd love to have your support. Learn more at hbl.org/bikeed35
Like most new things, it's generally easier to get started when you're a kid. However, if you never learned or went through the program, haven't been on a bike in a long time, or just want to refresh your knowledge and skills, Hawaii Bicycling League has plenty of FREE (or donation-based) workshops for residents of all ages and skill levels.
- Adult Learn to Ride - bikes provided
- Bicycling Basics
- Road Cycling Skills
- Intro to E-Bikes - e-bikes provided
- Senior Trike Rides (50+) - trikes provided
Want to participate but don't have a bike to use? HBL provides equipment for those participating in both the Adult Learn to Ride and Intro to E-Bike workshops. If you want to use a Biki bike during a workshop, please email kelsey@bikesharehawaii.org to request a complimentary Biki pass (while supplies last).
Honolulu is a paradise for both residents and tourists alike. However, enjoying this tropical haven can sometimes come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, there's a sustainable and cost-effective solution right at your fingertips – Biki! Let's explore how embracing bikeshare in Honolulu can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also contribute to significant savings in your budget.
Avoiding Gas Costs:
It's no secret that the price for a gallon of gas in Hawaii far exceeds the national average. As of November 2023, a regular gallon will cost you about $4.60. - a whopping 28% higher than the national average of $3.20/gallon. Fueling up a vehicle can be a significant drain on your budget. Bikeshare eliminates this expense altogether, offering a greener and more sustainable alternative to traditional modes of transportation.
No Parking Hassles or Fees:
Honolulu, like many cities, can be challenging when it comes to finding parking, and the associated fees can quickly add up. According to Parkopedia, average parking rates in the urban core are $4.50/hour and $135 per month. Hotels in Waikiki generally charge between $30-50 per night, and some residential buildings can cost upwards of $300/month. By opting for bikeshare, you eliminate the need to search for parking spots, pay for meters, or deal with parking tickets. Simply pick up a bike from one of the 133 convenient stations scattered across the city and drop it off when you reach your destination.
Affordable memberships
One of the most compelling reasons to choose bikeshare in Honolulu is its affordability. Compared to traditional transportation options like renting a car or taking uber/taxis, Biki memberships are incredibly cost-effective. In fact, 69% of members report having saved money because of Biki (2022 Member Survey). With extremely affordable kama'aina memberships, residents can gain unlimited 24/7 access to bikes at a fraction of the cost.
Kama'aina Rates:
The Commuter: Unlimited 30 minute rides - $15/month
The Voyager: Unlimited 60 minute rides - $25/month
The Free Spirit: a bank of 300 minutes for $25
Thanks to a grant funded by the Better Bike Share Partnership, we have also launched a subsidized fare for those who qualify. Apply for Everybody Rides and get unlimited 30-minute rides for only $10/month!
Biki is not just a means of transportation; it's a gateway to savings and a healthier lifestyle. By choosing to bike over traditional modes of transit, you can enjoy the beauty of Honolulu while keeping more money in your pocket. So, gear up, pedal on, and discover the many benefits that bikeshare has to offer in this tropical paradise. Your wallet and the environment will thank you.
When most talk about Biki, they usually focus on the bike trip and not how it also is a great connector to / from transit …for either that late night owl connection or to skip a long wait for your second bus, etc. Transportation planners call this the ‘first and last mile problem’. These are those transit trips that are often the shortest but can often take the most time to complete due to long transfer wait times.
Transit is a valuable mobility resource for many Biki riders, as 19% of our members reported connecting a bus trip with a Biki bike ride (2022 Biki Member Survey). Additionally, a 2021 citywide survey of residents by OTS (TheBus people) found that Biki bikeshare was the third most needed transportation resource with public transit. This priority ranking was pretty consistent across all transit user types.
To further support the adoption of transit and cycling, we at Bikeshare Hawaii, have worked to integrate our data for station locations, bike supply and dock availability in two transit apps: the Transit app and the Citymapper app. So, the next time you take TheBus, be sure to download these apps and toggle the bikeshare feature to see how Biki can get you to or from your traditional transit ride in town. It might just get you to your destination quicker. These apps also work on the continent, so take them on your next holo holo trip.
In conclusion, when you Think of Biki, think of it as not only a fun pedal but as ‘bike transit’.
Get connected. Download the Apps!
Get the Transit App
Get the CityMapper App
Thanks to a grant from the Better Bike Share Partnership, we're excited to introduce Everybody Rides, a new and improved version of our Access Program. This initiative is part of our ongoing effort to help create healthier communities and expand access to sustainable transportation.
Everybody Rides gives eligible participants an unlimited number of Biki rides for a reduced rate of only $10 per month. Similar to our standard Commuter Plan, each ride can be up to 30 minutes in duration, and there is no limit to how many rides you can take each day, week or month! To apply, residents must be at least 16 years of age and currently receiving public assistance from the Department of Human Services.
To make it as easy as possible, we are developing a new webpage with a simplified online application. Over the next few months, we'll be hosting free workshops, conducting outreach in the community, and spreading the word about our latest membership option.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Learn more about Everybody Rides and Biki bikeshare at an upcoming workshop or outreach event!
July 22 (Saturday) - Keiki to Kapuna
9am - 12pm @ Old Stadium Park
August 5 (Saturday) - Outreach Event
10 - 2pm @ Pearl Ridge Shopping Center
August 19 (Sat) - Community Clean-Up
8:30am - 1:30pm @ Waimanalo District Park
August 20 (Sat) - HBL Documentary Screening
6pm - 9pm @ Patagonia Ward
September 9 (Sat) - Outreach Event
11am - 4:30pm @ SALT at our Kakaako
October 23 (Monday) - Outreach Event
1:30 - 3:30pm @ Aloha Tower
November 18 (Saturday) - Keiki to Kapuna
9am - 12pm @ Old Stadium Park
September 7 (Thursday) - Outreach Event
10am - 2pm @ UH Manoa Center Courtyard
FREE WORKSHOPS
We're teaming up with Hawaii Bicycling League to host free 2-hour workshops to share information about Everybody Rides and equip residents with the knowledge and confidence they need to use Biki safely in Honolulu. Participants will receive a free helmet, a free month of Biki's Everybody Rides Membership, and free food / refreshments. Space is capped at 10 participants per workshop and registration is required.
QUESTIONS?
Email us at info@bikesharehawaii.org.
PROGRAM PARTNERS
Win a free helmet! Come to any of our Bike Month events and enter our raffle for the chance to win a free XNITO helmet ($150 value).
Xnito makes high-quality ebike helmets that provide exceptional protection and comfort. Its lightweight design and aerodynamic shape make it perfect for cyclists and e-riders, while its advanced safety features, including front and rear LED lights plus high-speed protection up to 28 mph ensure the ultimate protection on the road. With a range of sizes and colors, the Xnito helmet is the best choice for anyone looking for a safe and stylish option for their next adventure.
And that's not all! XNITO is also offering all Biki members 10% off their helmet purchase with promo code 'biki'. Visit https://xnito.com/Biki and enter the code at checkout!
In Hawaii, we’re lucky to have some of the best weather in the world. But, if you’ve biked at all this month, chances are you’ve had to brave the wind and rain. We’ll still take it over freezing temps and snowstorms any day, but encourage you to review these simple tips to keep you safe when riding in inclement weather.
Beware of slippery surfaces
Painted roadway markers, manhole covers, and leafy debris can become extra slick during and after the rain. When riding over these surfaces, head straight and avoid making abrupt stops and turns.
Stay visible
Biki bikes come equipped with reflectors and rear and front lights that automatically start blinking as soon as you start pedaling. Be sure your belongings and clothing do not block these lights so you can stay visible. Bright clothing and reflective gear are always a good idea, too!
Brake early and make slow turns
When coming to a stop, ease on the brakes earlier than normal. It’s a good idea to brake before making turns and keep your Biki upright instead of leaning into corners.
Steer clear of puddles
Splashing through puddles might make you feel like a kid again, but you don’t know what’s lurking underneath. Ride around puddles whenever it’s safe to do so to avoid massive potholes, oily water, and other hazards.
Even on the rainiest of days, we still see a minimum of 1000 Biki riders brave the streets (compared to upwards of 3000 on a sunny day). Our bikes offer many features to keep you as comfortable as possible during the rain, such as fender covers on the wheels to prevent muddy water from splashing all over your back and shoes. Inclement weather requires more bike maintenance, so bikeshare helps you avoid the extra work and costs. Plus, remember that when you ride Biki, you always have the option to just park your bike at over 130 stations and take the bus or use rideshare if it gets too stormy to ride.
When you do ride, accept that you will likely get wet. Invest in a good rain jacket, use a waterproof bag and consider packing a change of clothes. Wearing glasses and helmets are always a good idea, too, which we now carry in our merch store!
Stay safe and enjoy the rainbows!
Oahu Fresh is a subscription based service that partners with local farmers to bring residents fresh produce! Their popular Farmer's Market Box ($25) includes 6 - 7 different fruits and vegetables that vary each week based on seasonality and availability. They're waiving the initial sign-up fee ($15) for all Biki Members. There is no commitment required and you can choose the frequency of your delivery. Simply use the promotion code BIKI.
Win a free box!
Oahu Fresh is also hooking up one lucky Biki Member with a free Farmer's Market Box! To enter:
- comment on our giveaway post with your favorite fruit or vegetable
- Follow @OahuFresh and @GoBikiHI before 12/15/22.
A winner will be selected at random and contacted via Instagram. No purchase required, must be 18+ to enter.
Bikeshare Hawaii is pleased to announce the addition of ALTRES as a sponsor of the Biki program. ALTRES, a local company founded in 1969, is Hawaii’s premier human resources and staffing company. ALTRES Staffing offers its services free of charge to jobseekers and helps them find jobs in a variety of industries, including office administration and management, nursing, construction, IT, and engineering.
“We are proud to support Biki in their efforts to provide a simple, affordable, and environmentally friendly way for people to move through our community,” said Barron Guss, CEO of ALTRES. Kerry Kopp, President of ALTRES Staffing added, “It’s a great time for jobseekers to explore new employment opportunities, so we hope they consider doing just that as they explore the city.”
Bikeshare Hawaii is the non-profit that manages the Biki program in Honolulu. We are fully funded by donations, sponsorships and grants. Please consider partnering with us or making a tax deductible donation to support the growing micromobility movement in Hawaii.