Frequently Asked Questions
What is BikeLinkTM?
BikeLinkTM is an inter-agency network of shared, on-demand parking and vending facilities for bicycles and other small vehicles. Facilities include on-demand bicycle lockers, group-access bicycle parking rooms, and on- demand shared bikes.
Where can I get a card?
BikeLinkTM cards can be purchased online, over the phone, or from participating retailers. They cost $20 and have $20 in rental value on them. Check locker info screens, or BikeLink.org for retailer locations near the BikeLinkTM facility you want to use, or call 1-888-540-0546 to buy a card over the phone.
Will my BikeLinkTM card work at any BikeLinkTM facility?
Yes! BikeLinkTM is an inter-agency network. This means your BikeLinkTM card will work at BikeLinkTM facilities provided by different owners and in different regions. Some owners may choose to require an additional access code for a portion of their facility to ensure that their own employees have priority access to parking spaces, or shared bikes. Contact the facility owner if an on-screen message indicates that an access code is required.
Access codes are distributed by facility owners, not by BikeLinkTM.
How much does it cost to use the system?
Rates vary by location and are displayed on-screen at each meter. Typical parking rates are 3-5 cents per hour. At some locations, the first several hours are free. Other locations may not charge hourly, but instead require additional registration steps, or a deposit.
What happens if I return after my meter expires?
If you are using a locker, the locker remains secure. For the extra time, you are charged a higher rate - usually three times the normal rental rate. If you leave a meter expired too long, the rental is considered abandoned. Press the button on any meter to see information screens with location-specific rental terms.
What if I do not have enough value on my card to pay for an expired meter?
We don't want to leave you stranded. You can still end the rental and get your bike, but your card will be unable to start a new rental until you add value to it.
What about when my card runs out? Can I add value to it?
Yes. Call 888-540-0546, or go to BikeLink.org and click "add value to card" to purchase a unique code which will allow you to add value onto your card the next time you are at a locker.
Can I use any other card besides the BikeLinkTM card?
Yes. In Santa Cruz for example, you can use the City's Park Card at parking meters, pay and display lots, and on BikeLinkTM lockers. We have also made provisions for accepting regional transit smart cards, like the TransLink smartcard in the San Francisco Bay Area, in the future.
Will there always be a space when I need it?
We monitor usage regularly. When local demand warrants it, and if the facility owner wishes to upgrade, the facility can be networked so you will be able to check availability or make a reservation online. At any facility, you can also rent a space in advance.
Why not just debit my card at the end of the rental?
Our research has indicated that pay-at-end systems make it a bit too easy to park and forget about it, especially if the hourly rate is low and the payment device is a debit card. Pay-at-end can be marginally more convenient; however, we consider it more important to encourage turnover so that secure bike parking is available to as many cyclists as possible. By making you think up front about how much time to put on the meter you are more likely to use the system as a short-term shared resource like metered parking for automobiles.
Can I rent more than one locker at a time?
Yes, but you need to use more than one card.
Who do I turn to if there's a problem?
Contact us using this form or call (888) 540-0546. We take calls 24/7, but typically cannot provide immediate on-site assistance. We love feedback and will work hard to help you.
What if I lose my card?
Contact us using this form or call (888) 540-0546. Until you let us know your card is lost, you will be responsible for its misuse by another party. If you lose your card when your bike is in a locker and need emergency assistance, check the info screens or signage at that facility to see if on-site assistance is available.
Can you refund the value on my lost card?
Your BikeLinkTM card is like a key and cash combined. The value is stored on the card itself, not on a network. Therefore, it is not possible to have your card deactivated or have value on it refunded if you lose it.