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> bikes require a credit card to access Many people don't have credit cards (though my information on that is years old; perhaps it's changed?). Doesn't that p

> bikes require a credit card to access Many people don't have credit cards (though my information on that is years old; perhaps it's changed?). Doesn't that policy limit access for the people who might need the bikes most?

csydas 9y ago
There's a bit more flexibility on this front with prepaid cards and loadable cards from banks. You can get Visa gift cards in the checkout aisle at most stores which work for most credit card requirements. It's not super convenient but it does allow for people without bank accounts or good credit to participate.
- forapurpose 9y ago
  Debit cards and gift cards carry the same branding as and look similar to credit cards, but don't provide many of the same functions. For example, it can be hard to rent a car using a debit card. A credit card means that the issuer vouches for and will (effectively) underwrite your credit. A debit card means that Visa will process payment if there is sufficient money in your account. An important question is whether debit cards can be used to rent the bikes, or if the vendors want assurance for liability in addition to immediate payment.
  - uiri 9y ago
    Canadian debit cards run on the Interac system. Generally, they have neither Visa nor Mastercard logos and different numbers. Some don't even have expiration dates because of chip & PIN. This is changing with some banks offering debit cards that can be used online through the credit card networks. Canadian debit cards would generally not be accepted if they're asking for Visa/Mastercard/Amex.
Pxtl 9y ago
Ontario has heavy credit card coverage as I understand it, and the city runs a charity that handles giving access to the bikeshare system for those who need help. The idea is that the charity will also absorb the liability of providing access to people are less traceable than credit card holders.

csydas 9y ago

There's a bit more flexibility on this front with prepaid cards and loadable cards from banks. You can get Visa gift cards in the checkout aisle at most stores which work for most credit card requirements. It's not super convenient but it does allow for people without bank accounts or good credit to participate.

forapurpose 9y ago
Debit cards and gift cards carry the same branding as and look similar to credit cards, but don't provide many of the same functions. For example, it can be hard to rent a car using a debit card. A credit card means that the issuer vouches for and will (effectively) underwrite your credit. A debit card means that Visa will process payment if there is sufficient money in your account. An important question is whether debit cards can be used to rent the bikes, or if the vendors want assurance for liability in addition to immediate payment.
- uiri 9y ago
  Canadian debit cards run on the Interac system. Generally, they have neither Visa nor Mastercard logos and different numbers. Some don't even have expiration dates because of chip & PIN. This is changing with some banks offering debit cards that can be used online through the credit card networks. Canadian debit cards would generally not be accepted if they're asking for Visa/Mastercard/Amex.

Pxtl 9y ago

Ontario has heavy credit card coverage as I understand it, and the city runs a charity that handles giving access to the bikeshare system for those who need help. The idea is that the charity will also absorb the liability of providing access to people are less traceable than credit card holders.