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How it Works

1) Purchase a membership online or at any station

Our system offers 4 types of memberships: 

  • Flash Pass:

    30 minute membership for $5 per 30 minutes

  • Joy Pass:

    24 hr pass $30. No need to dock during this time period

  • Monthly Membership:

    $50

  • Annual Membership:

    $150

  • Any membership or pass may be purchased online (credit/debit card required).
  • Flash Pass and Joy Pass can be purchased at the station, online, or on the Joy Rides App. 
  • Monthly and Annual memberships must be purchased online or on the app.

Don't forget, there's an app for that! Have the convenience of knowing bike, dock, and station availability on your mobile phone! Download the Joy Rides app on your iPhone or Android phone.

2) Choose a bike from any Joy Rides-station

If you do not have a Joy Rides-card and have not yet purchased a membership:

  • Press the 'Start' button on the kiosk.
  • Follow the instructions on the touch screen to purchase a Flash Pass or Joy Pass.
  • When prompted, select the dock number of the bike you wish to check out.
  • The kiosk will unlock the bike from the dock you chose. The dock holding the chosen bike will beep and show a green light until the bike is removed or for about 30 seconds.

If you do not have a Joy Rides-card, but already have purchased a membership:

  • Press the 'Start' button on the kiosk.
  • Select 'No' when asked if you would like to purchase a membership.
  • Follow the prompts on the touch screen. When prompted, swipe the same credit card you bought your membership with.
  • When prompted, select the dock number of the bike you wish to check out.
    The kiosk will unlock the bike from the dock you choose

3) Grab a bike and your helmet and go!

  • Follow these easy steps to ensure the Joy Rides is in working order, strap on your helmet, and go! 
  • The TIRES should be hard and not bulging on the pavement. Examine them for any abrasions or bubbles.
  • Check that the WHEELS spin straight and freely without rubbing against the brake pads or any other parts.
  • Try shifting to all three GEARS to make sure the chain shifts smoothly.
  • Squeeze both BRAKES to make sure they are functioning properly.
  • Adjust the SEAT height and clamp it securely so that your leg almost fully extends when the pedal is down.

4) Return your bike to any station

  • Return your bike to any Charlotte Joy Rides station by rolling it into an available dock.
  • Wait for three rapid blinks of the green light and three quick beeps. That is your signal that the bike has been securely returned