Reddy Bikeshare Comes to Buffalo

A total of 200 ‘social bicycles’ are now available to bikers through 30 ‘stations’ around Buffalo

By Katie Coleman

Reddy bikeshare is finally here, expanding access to active transportation with 200 bicycles available for rent at more than 30 locations across Buffalo. Each bike, which officials call “social bicycles,” has solar-powered GPS systems, built-in locks, lights and bells.

The program was launched with a press conference and inaugural ride July 21 at Delaware Park.

“Reddy bikeshare is the best new way to explore the city of Buffalo,” said Jennifer White, Reddy bikeshare’s marketing and communications executive. “Nothing like this exists in Buffalo.”

Technology on the bikes makes them easy to use, and they track the amount of calories burned, trip distance and duration, along with estimated reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, and saving costs from leaving your car behind. “It’s fun, affordable and a great way to stay active and healthy,” White said.

Reddy bikeshare is a bike share mobility program that has been made possible by a partnership between Independent Health and Shared Mobility Inc. It can be accessed by downloading the SoBi app to your phone, which is similar to Uber, but for bikes. The app system displays the geographic locations of select Reddy bikeshare stations where bikes can be reserved or you can just walk up to a bike and enter your account number on the bike’s keypad. You’ll have to create a four-digit PIN to unlock and begin riding.

“I decided to live car-free over two years ago to adopt this new, completely liberating lifestyle,” White said. “I feel great; I’m more connected to the community I live and work in and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. It’s not for everyone, but I do think this new program will allow folks to take less trips with their car and realize how fun it can be to exercise while you commute.”

Locations for the bike stations include Delaware Park, Buffalo Museum of Science, RiverWorks, Canalside, Broadway Market, Allentown and Elmwood Village neighborhoods, and the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library. Bike stations will continue to expand, as more desired locations are determined.

There will be free parking zones located on Elmwood Avenue, Allen Street, downtown on Main Street, Broadway market, Buffalo Museum of Science, Buffalo State College, and Canisius College. Reddy racks outside of free parking zones will cost riders 25 cents to park. Public bike racks within city limits will cost riders $2.

Reddy bikeshare also provides a functional use for those who need transport to and from work. Short term, monthly passes are $8.50 to activate plus 6 cents per minute. Annual passes are $55 plus 1 cent per minute. Group passes are $20 per month plus six cents per minute, and allow four users to ride under one account. Independent Health members receive 20 percent off the annual pass membership rate. You must be 18 or older and have a credit card to participate.

For more information and to purchase a membership pass, go online at www.reddybikeshare.com, or download the SoBi mobile app. Contact Jennifer White at jen@reddybikeshare.com or at 716-407-7474.

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