> 2. Why do I need to purchase a pass at all? > In an ideal world, where things work like standard tech that already exists, I would attach a credit card, walk

> 2. Why do I need to purchase a pass at all? > In an ideal world, where things work like standard tech that already exists, I would attach a credit card, walk up to a bike, and get automatically charged for unlocking it/riding it. I'm trying to give you my money, Los Angeles! For the same reason any other business offers a discount for buying in advance / in bulk: "Revenue today" is more valuable to a seller than "a little revenue today, and maybe a little more at a later date".