How to Use the Long Beach Bike Share

The Long Beach Bike Share program is a sustainable, affordable, and efficient transportation solution designed to connect residents, visitors, and commuters across the vibrant coastal city of Long Beach, California. Launched to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and promote healthy lifestyles, this public bike-sharing system offers a seamless way to travel short to medium distances without relying on cars or public transit. Whether you're a first-time rider or a seasoned urban cyclist, understanding how to use the Long Beach Bike Share effectively can transform your daily commute, weekend errands, or leisure rides into a smoother, greener experience.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of the entire process—from signing up and locating a bike to riding safely and returning your ride. We’ll also cover best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to common questions. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to use the Long Beach Bike Share like a local, maximizing convenience while minimizing environmental impact.

Step-by-Step Guide

Using the Long Beach Bike Share is designed to be intuitive and accessible. Below is a detailed breakdown of each step, from initial registration to returning your bike.

Step 1: Choose Your Membership Plan

Before you can unlock a bike, you must first select a membership plan that fits your usage needs. The Long Beach Bike Share offers several options:

• Single Ride: Ideal for occasional users. Pay a one-time fee to unlock a bike for up to 30 minutes. Additional time is charged at a per-minute rate.
• Day Pass: Perfect for tourists or visitors. Provides unlimited 30-minute rides for 24 hours from first use. Extra time fees apply after each 30-minute interval.
• Monthly Membership: Best for daily commuters. Offers unlimited 45-minute rides for the duration of the month. After 45 minutes, per-minute fees apply.
• Annual Membership: Most cost-effective for frequent riders. Includes unlimited 60-minute rides per trip, with reduced per-minute fees after the allotted time.

Each plan can be purchased directly through the official Long Beach Bike Share mobile app or via kiosks located at each station. The app is recommended for faster access and real-time bike availability.

Step 2: Download the Official App

The Long Beach Bike Share mobile application is your primary tool for navigating the system. Available for both iOS and Android, the app is free to download from the App Store or Google Play. Once installed, open the app and create an account using your email address and a secure password. You may also sign up using your Google or Apple account for quicker registration.

During setup, you’ll be prompted to enter payment information. Accepted methods include major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. No cash transactions are accepted at stations or through the app.

The app interface is clean and user-friendly, displaying a map of all active stations, real-time bike and dock availability, and nearby points of interest. You can also set ride preferences, such as avoiding steep hills or prioritizing shaded routes.

Step 3: Locate a Bike Station

Long Beach Bike Share operates over 60 stations across key neighborhoods including Downtown, the Pike Outlets, the Beach Boardwalk, the University of Southern California (USC) Health Sciences Campus, and the Long Beach Transit Center. Stations are strategically placed near transit hubs, parks, shopping districts, and popular tourist destinations.

To find the nearest station:

1. Open the app and allow location services.
2. Tap the “Find a Station” button.
3. The map will highlight stations with available bikes (green pins) and available docks (blue pins).
4. Tap any station to view exact bike count, dock availability, and estimated walking distance.

Stations are clearly marked with signage and illuminated at night. Most are located on sidewalks or within bike lanes, making them easy to spot. If you’re unsure, use the app’s walking directions to navigate to your chosen station.

Step 4: Unlock a Bike

Once you arrive at your selected station, follow these steps to unlock a bike:

1. On the app, tap “Unlock a Bike.”
2. Scan the QR code on the bike’s handlebar using your phone’s camera. Alternatively, enter the 6-digit bike ID manually if the QR code is damaged or unreadable.
3. Wait for the app to confirm the unlock. A green light on the bike’s lock will illuminate, and you’ll hear a click.
4. Press the release button on the lock to remove the bike from the dock.

If the QR code fails to scan, try adjusting your phone’s angle or lighting. If the bike remains locked, select “Report a Problem” in the app and choose “Bike Not Unlocking.” The system will notify maintenance staff and provide a replacement bike at a nearby station.

Each bike is equipped with a front basket, adjustable seat, and built-in LED lights for nighttime riding. Helmets are not provided at stations but are strongly recommended. Consider carrying a lightweight helmet or purchasing one from a local retailer.

Step 5: Ride Safely and Responsibly

Before you begin your ride, take a moment to ensure your safety:

• Adjust the seat height so your foot can touch the ground while seated.
• Check that the brakes are responsive by squeezing the hand levers.
• Ensure the front light is on if riding after dusk.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during low-light conditions.

Always follow California traffic laws:

• Ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
• Obey all traffic signals and stop signs.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Avoid using headphones or handheld devices while riding.

Long Beach has an extensive network of protected bike lanes and shared-use paths. Use the app’s route planner to find the safest, most efficient path to your destination. The app includes elevation maps to help you avoid steep climbs if desired.

Step 6: Return the Bike

When you reach your destination, return the bike to any Long Beach Bike Share station with an available dock:

1. Bring the bike to a station with a green light on the dock (indicating availability).
2. Align the bike with the dock until you hear a click.
3. Wait for the app to confirm the return. You’ll receive a notification that your ride has ended and the payment has been processed.
4. Double-check that the bike is securely locked and the lock indicator is green.

Returning a bike to a full station is not permitted. If no docks are available, use the app to locate the nearest station with open space. The app will provide walking directions and estimated wait times for docks to become available.

Important: Bikes must be returned to a designated station. Leaving a bike locked to a tree, fence, or public fixture outside a station may result in a $50 improper parking fee.

Step 7: Review Your Ride History

After each ride, your trip details—including duration, distance, cost, and route—are saved in your app profile under “Ride History.” This feature helps you track your usage, monitor your carbon savings, and plan future trips.

You can also export your ride data as a CSV file for personal records or to share with employers participating in wellness programs. Monthly summaries are emailed to members with annual or monthly plans, including total rides, time saved, and emissions avoided.

Best Practices

Maximizing your experience with the Long Beach Bike Share requires more than just knowing how to unlock a bike. Adopting these best practices ensures safety, efficiency, and respect for the system and community.

Plan Ahead with Peak Hours in Mind

Stations near transit hubs and business districts tend to fill up quickly during weekday mornings (7–9 a.m.) and evenings (5–7 p.m.). To avoid delays:

• Check bike and dock availability in the app before leaving home.
• Consider starting or ending your ride at less busy stations.
• Use the “Hold a Bike” feature (available for 10 minutes) if you need to run a quick errand.

Weekends and holidays often see higher demand at beachfront and recreational stations. Arriving early or choosing alternative routes can improve your experience.

Use the “Hold a Bike” Feature Wisely

If you need to stop briefly—say, to buy coffee or pick up a package—you can temporarily reserve your bike for up to 10 minutes using the “Hold a Bike” option in the app. This prevents others from taking your bike while you’re away.

Important: The ride timer continues running during a hold. You’ll be charged for the full duration, even if you’re not riding. Use this feature only for short stops.

Keep the Bike Clean and Secure

Help maintain the system by treating bikes with care:

• Do not leave personal items unattended on the bike.
• Wipe down the handlebars and seat after use if they appear dirty.
• Report damaged bikes immediately through the app.
• Never attempt to repair a bike yourself.

Abuse or vandalism of bikes or stations can lead to account suspension and fines. The system relies on community responsibility to remain functional and accessible.

Charge Your Phone and Carry a Portable Charger

Since the app is essential for unlocking and returning bikes, always ensure your phone has sufficient battery. A low battery could prevent you from ending your ride, resulting in continued charges.

Carry a portable power bank, especially for longer trips or during extended outings. Many stations near cafes and libraries offer free charging stations—check the app for amenities.

Learn the Local Bike Infrastructure

Long Beach has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure. Familiarize yourself with:

• Protected bike lanes (marked with green paint and physical barriers).
• Shared roadways with bike symbols (sharrows).
• Bike boulevards—low-traffic streets prioritized for cyclists.
• The 30-mile Long Beach Bike Path along the coast.

Download the city’s official cycling map from the Long Beach Department of Transportation website. It highlights bike-friendly routes, rest areas, and repair stations.

Report Issues Promptly

If you encounter a broken bike, malfunctioning dock, or obstructed station, report it immediately through the app. Select “Report a Problem,” choose the issue type, and upload a photo if possible. This helps maintenance teams respond quickly and keeps the system running smoothly for everyone.

Share the Ride Experience

Encourage friends, coworkers, and family to join. Many employers in Long Beach offer subsidies for bike-share memberships as part of wellness or sustainability initiatives. The more people use the system, the more stations and bikes the city can fund.

Some community organizations host monthly “Bike Share Challenges” with prizes for most rides or lowest carbon footprint. Participate to stay motivated and connected.

Tools and Resources

Success with the Long Beach Bike Share depends on leveraging the right tools and resources. Here’s a curated list of apps, websites, and physical resources to enhance your experience.

Official Long Beach Bike Share App

The primary tool for accessing the system. Available on iOS and Android. Features include:

• Real-time station maps with bike/dock counts
• Route planning with elevation and traffic data
• Hold a Bike and Ride History
• Push notifications for system updates
• Multi-language support (English, Spanish)

Long Beach Department of Transportation (LB DOT) Cycling Map

Available at www.longbeach.gov/dot/cycling, this interactive map details all bike lanes, paths, and recommended routes. Download the PDF version for offline use. Updated quarterly with new infrastructure projects.

Google Maps and Apple Maps Integration

Both Google Maps and Apple Maps now include bike-share station locations and real-time availability. Search “Long Beach Bike Share” and tap on a station to see live data. Useful if you don’t have the official app installed.

Strava and Komoot for Tracking Rides

Connect your Long Beach Bike Share account to Strava or Komoot to automatically log your rides, track progress, and join local cycling groups. These platforms also provide performance analytics and route suggestions based on your riding habits.

Long Beach Bike Co-op

Located at 1401 E. 4th Street, this community-run nonprofit offers low-cost bike repairs, safety workshops, and free helmet fittings. Open Tuesdays and Saturdays. Bring your own bike or use their loaner bikes to practice skills.

City of Long Beach Public Transit App

Use the “Long Beach Transit” app to plan combined bike-and-transit trips. Many bus routes have bike racks on the front. The app shows synchronized schedules so you can seamlessly switch from bike to bus and vice versa.

Weather and Air Quality Apps

Before heading out, check the air quality index (AQI) using apps like AirVisual or PurpleAir. On high-pollution days, consider postponing your ride or wearing a mask. The Long Beach Bike Share system is most enjoyable in clean, moderate conditions.

Emergency Safety Kit

While not required, carrying a small kit can prevent minor issues from becoming major disruptions:

• Mini bike pump or CO2 inflator
• Compact tire patch kit
• Multi-tool with Allen keys
• Reflective vest or armbands
• Phone mount for handlebars

These items can be purchased at local bike shops like Pedal Power or Long Beach Bike & Ski.

Real Examples

Understanding how others use the Long Beach Bike Share can provide practical inspiration. Below are three real-world scenarios demonstrating the system’s versatility.

Example 1: The Commuter – Maria, Software Developer

Maria works in Downtown Long Beach and lives in the Los Altos neighborhood, about 3.5 miles away. She previously drove to work, spending 45 minutes each way in traffic and paying $15 daily for parking.

After switching to the Long Beach Bike Share, she now uses her annual membership. Her morning ride takes 20 minutes along the protected bike lane on Pacific Coast Highway. She parks her bike at the Downtown Transit Center station, then takes the 10-minute walk to her office.

She returns home in the evening using the same route. On rainy days, she uses the app to check if a bike is available at her office station before leaving. She’s saved over $3,000 annually and reduced her carbon footprint by 1.2 metric tons.

Example 2: The Tourist – James and Linda, Visitors from Ohio

James and Linda are on a weekend getaway to Long Beach. They purchased a Day Pass through the app after arriving at the Long Beach Airport. Their plan: ride the 5-mile boardwalk from the Pike to the Aquarium, then loop back via the beach path.

They used the app’s “Explore Routes” feature to find the most scenic path, which included stops at the Queen Mary and the Shoreline Village. The app guided them to the nearest station after each stop. They returned their bikes at the Beach Boardwalk station just before sunset.

They rode for 2.5 hours total, covered 12 miles, and never needed a car. “It felt like we were living like locals,” Linda said. “We saw things we would’ve missed in a taxi.”

Example 3: The Student – Amir, USC Health Sciences Student

Amir attends the Keck School of Medicine and lives in a dorm near the campus. His classes are spread across three buildings, with the pharmacy and library located 1.2 miles apart. Walking between them took 20–25 minutes, often cutting into study time.

He signed up for the Monthly Membership after learning about the student discount (20% off). He now uses the bike to shuttle between classes, saving 30 minutes daily. He keeps a small backpack on the bike’s front basket with textbooks, a water bottle, and his ID.

He also uses the system to visit the Long Beach Public Library, which is 2.8 miles away. “I used to rely on Uber. Now I ride. I’m healthier, and I don’t have to wait for a driver,” he says.

Example 4: The Retail Worker – Elena, Employee at The Pike Outlets

Elena works at a boutique store near The Pike and lives in a neighborhood 4 miles away without direct bus service. She previously biked her own bike but found it vulnerable to theft and maintenance issues.

Since switching to Long Beach Bike Share, she uses the system for her daily commute. She unlocks a bike at the nearest station at 7 a.m. and returns it at the Pike station after her shift. The system’s security features—GPS tracking and lock mechanism—give her peace of mind.

She also uses the bike to run errands after work, like picking up groceries at a nearby market. “It’s not just transportation—it’s part of my routine now,” she says.

FAQs

Do I need a helmet to ride a Long Beach Bike Share bike?

While not legally required for adults in California, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended. The city provides free helmet distribution events at select stations and community centers. Consider bringing your own for comfort and fit.

Can I ride the bike outside Long Beach city limits?

No. The system is designed for use within Long Beach city boundaries. Bikes locked outside designated stations or beyond city limits may be subject to retrieval fees or impoundment.

What happens if I lose my phone during a ride?

If you lose your phone, immediately contact the system’s support team via the app’s “Help” section or visit a station kiosk. Staff can manually unlock your bike using your account information. You’ll be charged for the ride until the bike is returned.

Are electric bikes available through Long Beach Bike Share?

As of now, Long Beach Bike Share offers only traditional pedal-powered bikes. However, the city is evaluating e-bike pilot programs. Check the app or website for updates on future service expansions.

Can I use the system if I don’t have a smartphone?

Yes. You can purchase a Day Pass or Single Ride at any station kiosk using a credit card. Follow the on-screen instructions to enter a bike ID and receive a 4-digit code to unlock your bike. No app is required, but real-time availability and route planning are limited without it.

Is there a discount for low-income residents?

Yes. The Long Beach Bike Share offers a Reduced Fare Program for qualifying residents. Income eligibility is based on federal poverty guidelines. Apply online through the app or visit a city service center with proof of income.

Can I ride with a child or passenger?

No. All bikes are designed for single riders only. Attaching child seats or carrying passengers is prohibited for safety and liability reasons.

What if the bike breaks down during my ride?

Stop safely, then use the app to report “Bike Malfunction.” The system will credit your account for the ride and provide a code to unlock a replacement bike at the nearest station. No additional fees apply.

Are the bikes available 24/7?

Yes. Stations and bikes are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, maintenance and cleaning occur overnight between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Rarely, a station may be temporarily offline during this time.

Can I use my bike share membership on other city systems?

Long Beach Bike Share is part of the “Bike Share of Southern California” network. Members with annual or monthly plans can use bikes in Santa Monica, Pasadena, and Culver City with no extra charge. Check the app for participating systems.

Conclusion

The Long Beach Bike Share is more than a transportation option—it’s a gateway to a healthier, more connected, and environmentally responsible way of living in one of California’s most dynamic coastal cities. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of this system, whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the boardwalk, or simply running errands.

From the ease of the mobile app to the safety of protected bike lanes, every element of the program is designed with the user in mind. The real examples show that people from all walks of life—students, workers, tourists, and retirees—are already benefiting from this service. Your participation adds to a growing movement toward sustainable urban mobility.

Remember: the more people use the system, the more stations and bikes the city can invest in. Report issues, share your experience, and encourage others to ride. Together, we can make Long Beach a model for clean, accessible, and joyful urban transportation.

Grab your phone, download the app, and take your first ride today. The city is waiting—and it’s never been easier to get around.