Mobike Rolls into The Woodlands

Have you seen the new orange and white bikes around Town Center? These are part of a new bike-share program recently launched in The Woodlands from Mobike.

The Woodlands Township Chairman of the Board Gordy Bunch said a bike-share program makes great sense for The Woodlands. "The Woodlands is a health-conscious community and features many great outdoor activities for fitness with more than 200 miles of pathways and more than 130 parks," he said. "There are so many great places to see and visit by bicycle. We're pleased Mobike wants to launch its first concept in Texas right here in The Woodlands."

Using custom-designed bikes equipped with GPS and smart-lock technology, Mobike enables users to find a bike nearby, reserve and unlock it, all using an app on their smartphone. After reaching their destination within The Woodlands Township Town Center limits, users manually lock the bike, which automatically makes the bike available to the next rider. The bikes are powered by unique high-tech features including non-puncture airless tires, bike status sensors and built-in GPS locators.

Bruce Rieser, Chairman of Visit The Woodlands, said the tourism entity has been looking for a good solution as it promotes the great outdoors. "Our tourists and meeting planners consistently talk about the great trails and pedestrian-friendly downtown area found in The Woodlands, he said. "Our hotel guests and visitors will now be able to rent a bicycle at a very low cost and discover this great destination."

The collaboration was led by Houston native Will Rub, now the Houston Operations Manager for Mobike, and John Powers, the Assistant General Manager for The Woodlands Township. "We have been working for seven years to bring bike-sharing to The Woodlands, and it was worth the wait, said Powers. "By introducing Mobike into the community, residents and visitors have access to cutting-edge technology, as well as a convenient and affordable way to get some exercise and explore the community. The best part is that it doesn't cost the Township a dime."