Capital Bikeshare ٤+

I was very pleased with how the app worked. Just a few simple essential functions but they worked well. The live map was accurate and the trip mapping function worked well.

Yes, not all of the bikes are perfect (fix those loose headsets!), and the docks don’t always work (which can be discouraging when you finally reach your destination and hope to ditch the bike like a hot potato and you find the only empty docks are not working), but most everything worked well enough, enough of the time for this user who was there for a few days as a tourist. And customer service was right there to take any phone calls with questions.

Unless you want to try the scooters, which look like an easier and more fun way to get around, the whole BikeShare system is pretty awesome. A great alternative to taking the Metro or using a car. The 30 minute time limit is sufficient to get from one place to another if you are a tourist exploring different parts of the city.

I found this app easy to use and extremely useful. Most helpful features for me is locating nearby bikes And the confirmation notification that comes when immediately upon docking the bike I found that most status data on breaks and docs available was accurate however a couple were way off. Another useful feature is the stopwatch starting immediately after the bike is checked out. The most desirable feature that isn’t implemented is being able to locate key dispensers. The online web based map shows that info but the app does not include it at all if you need to find a key dispenser forget about using the app for that.

Had a HORRIBLE experience with renting my bike and ending the trip docking it. Was a little disappointed with how difficult it was for a newcomer to try to rent a bike for only half an hour, but this entire experience was negated by one of the most superior customer service experiences I’ve ever had.

Marie (I definitely want to give her a shoutout!) spoke with me on the phone and was not only patient, but went above and beyond what I expected customer service would be for a $2 bike ride around DC. I had an issue docking my bike, and she was able to talk to upper management (without me even having to ask) and calm my fears as a first time user of the service.

Now that I’m aware of how the system works, I would definitely recommend renting a bike through this company in the city (especially if you want to put in the exercise and save money over Uber, scooters, and other ride share/renting services).