Relaunched on June 28th, Bay Area Bike Share is now Ford GoBike. Bike stations are sprinkled throughout San Francisco as well as Oakland, Emeryville and San Jose.

Currently, San Francisco bike stations are primarily in South Beach, FiDi and SOMA, with numerous locations along Market Street and the Embarcadero.  The station map allows riders to locate the nearest bike pick up (or drop off) location and also shows where future stations are planned including the Mission, Noe Valley, The Castro, Mission Bay and Dogpatch.

A fun, affordable and eco-friendly way to get around, a single one-way trip is $3 through September 30th, a day pass for unlimited 30-minutes rides over a 24-hour period is $9.95 and an annual membership is just $149. Riders can use the Ford GoBike mobile app or their Clipper Card to unlock any bike in the system, choosing the option that best suits their need. The app allows riders to locate the station nearest them with available bikes, pic up a bike and helmet and ride to their destination. The GoBike can then be returned at any station; the green light indicates the bike is locked and officially returned. 

For many, this offers a convenient, cost-effective way to commute to work or school as well as run quick errands or even explore the city. By using pedal power, riders can improve their health as well as that of the environment, minimizing carbon emissions. 

Meet the Ford GoBike

According to the website, the Ford GoBike is "designed for easy riding in an urban environment. They were built to be comfortable for any type of rider, regardless of height or riding ability." Some of its features include:

Sturdy Frame

The aluminum frame is easy to straddle and has a low center of gravity for a more stable ride.

Adjustable Seat

The wide, padded saddle seat is comfortable and rain-resistant. The black lever at the bottom of the seat post allows you to adjust the seat to your height, and the numbers help you remember your setting for next time.

Handlebars & Shifters

The handlebars are designed to let you sit upright and enjoy greater visibility. The shifter is built right into the handlebar – just twist it to make pedaling easier or harder.

Responsive Brakes

To brake, just squeeze the levers on both handlebars. The braking mechanism is hidden in the frame of the bike, so it’s not affected by rain.

Lights & Reflectors

Multiple reflectors and self-powered LED lights at the front and rear of the bike make sure you stay visible when riding at night. They come on automatically and flash when the bike is in motion

Front Basket

The metal rack at the front of the bike fits a wide range of bags. Secure yours in place with the elastic cord attached to the basket.

Durable Tires

The puncture-resistant tires are designed to stay inflated ride after ride.

Chain Guard & Fenders

Front and rear fenders protect you from rain or dirt, and the metal chain guard prevents grease from getting on your pant legs.

Rules of the Road

These safety tips ensure everyone shares the road and that your ride is pleasant one. 

• Ride with traffic
• Obey traffic signs and signals
• Walk bike on sidewalks
• Yield to pedestrians

For a comprehensive list on the best bike sharing programs around the world, check out this article from Biking Expert. (San Francisco is #5!)