Islandwide bikeshare usage surges significantly
Rolling with the Wheels: Hilo and Kailua-Kona's Skyrocketing Bike Rental Demand
Over a year since the expansion of bike rental services in Hilo and Kailua-Kona, cycling enthusiasts are quickly hopping on board islandwide.
Cyclists logged a staggering 12,463 bike rides from HIBIKE kiosks across the island in 2024, marking a significant 1,000-plus increase from the year before. This surge in ridership follows the addition of six new bikeshare stations each for Kona and Hilo in January 2024, bringing the total number of kiosks in Kona to 13 and Hilo to 10.
As the Chief Operating Officer of People for Active Transportation Hawaii (PATH), Kelly Hudik, shares, the first week of April 2025 saw a total of 2,997 rides. Hudik attributes this number to the “bikes-and-breaks correlation,” as the spring break season and busy tourist months typically drive higher demand for bike rentals.
Despite the two new stations set up near universities, University of Hawaii Hilo, and Hawaii Community College, being the least used in Hilo, Hudik explains, "The idea was that students would use the stations to go into town, but that's just not the case. Often, we see the students walking together or driving, and the bikeshare isn't an option." As a result, future station placements are expected to prioritize shopping areas and libraries.
Although there are currently no definite plans for PATH to secure additional funding for more kiosks, the opportunity to apply for grant funds for additional stations remains open. Hudik is optimistic, stating, “if the opportunity comes our way, we’ll be happy to take a look!"
Last year, PATH received an additional grant from the Better Bike Share Partnership, enabling the organization to host adult bike safety classes in both Kona and Hilo. The classes, aimed at both new and seasoned cyclists, have drawn strong interest, with over a dozen participants in each session. More classes are expected in the future, as PATH has been awarded additional funds under this grant.
Beyond adult education, PATH offers bike education to fourth-grade students across the island, impacting over 1,000 kids annually with education and free helmets. With a State Grant in Aid last year, PATH was able to purchase a new van and trailer to continue its keiki education offerings.
To further encourage bike use, HIBIKE works with Hele-On to facilitate mass transit by offering bike renters unlimited 30-minute rides for 24 hours upon request from the bus driver. Hudik encourages residents to take advantage of the kama'aina monthly deals, including $20 per month for unlimited 30-minute rides and $25 per month for unlimited 60-minute rides. "For those interested in testing the waters during Bike Month, May is the perfect time to hop on," Hudik said.
To learn more about bike rentals and exclusive resident deals, visit www.hawaiiislandbike.com or www.pathhawaii.org.
Contact Kyveli Diener at [email protected].
Subscribe for $10/month | Login | Register | activate
- The rise in bike rental demand on Hawaii Island, particularly in Hilo and Kailua-Kona, has led to a marked increase in traffic on the roads.
- The transportation industry is witnessing a commute revolution, with more individuals choosing to bike rather than drive, due to the added benefit of promoting a healthier lifestyle.
- As the demand for bike rentals continues to increase, the education sector is also seeing an opportunity to integrate cycling into the curriculum, fostering a sense of community and promoting sports activities among students.
- Financial institutions, noticing the growing bike rental trend, are now offering specialized loans for bike purchases, which aligns with the sustainable finance movement.
- With the expansion of bike rental services, the community is encouraged to support local businesses revolving around bike repair, maintenance, and retail, thereby boosting the local economy.
- To address the growing popularity of bike rentals, organizations like PATH are working closely with transportation entities to encourage mass transit integration and facilitate seamless commuting experiences for residents and tourists alike.
