YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – An Ohio family is introducing a new way to get around their hometown. And it’s pedal powered.
What you need to know
- YoGo Bikeshare plans to offer 30 bikes for short-term rentals in downtown Youngstown
- Four docking stations are available to return and charge the bikes
- The business is expected to start in March 2023
Yogo Bikeshare is expected to launch in March 2023. Ronel Elkins said it’s the first bike-sharing business in Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley.
“We’ve always looked at it as a steel town,” Elkins said. “It’s not just that we’re going to change the face of the city with bikes, but it’s going to give people in our community a chance to see something different than what they’re used to or what they’re used to hearing about Youngstown, Ohio.”
Elkins is president of the family-owned business, whose team members include his father and two brothers. His brother, Kent Wallace II, is vice president of operations.
“I used to ride my bike to different parts of the city, so it really resonated with me,” Wallace said.
Elkins said there are a few cycling groups in town, but overall, there aren’t many cyclists in town.
“We’re excited to do our part to connect the city by bike,” he said.
A fleet of 30 Yogo bikes will be in use starting in the spring, with docking stations located in four downtown locations.
“We felt there was a need and an opportunity to be able to provide that alternative mode of transportation,” Wallace said.
Wallace says the bikes are 70% electric, so there’s a little more pep when you pedal, making them easier to use for many riders.
“Youngstown is pretty hilly, so we want to make sure they have a chance to climb hills and things and ride bikes,” Elkins said.
And in areas that don’t have dedicated bike lanes, Elkins said they’re educating both drivers and cyclists about the rules of the road.
“Like motorcycles, it’s about sharing the road mentality, right?” Elkins said. “So it’s important for us to start changing the psychology of people’s minds around bike safety.”
He said the bikes are meant to be shared and used for short periods of 30 minutes or less and then plugged in to give others a chance to ride. Having bicycles provides more options for quick commutes.
“It’s freedom of movement,” Elkins said. “You know, being able to relive your childhood in certain ways.”
When the program launches in the spring, Yogo bikes will be available for rent through the app. Wallace said they plan to have single use, daily use and annual subscription options for drivers to choose from. He said they plan to offer an annual subscription of $90 a year for unlimited 30-minute rides.
Riders must provide their own helmets.
