Zagster Begins Nationwide Technology Upgrade to Bike-Sharing Systems

CAMBRIDGE, MA--(Marketwired - Aug 15, 2016) -  Zagster is setting a new standard for convenience and security in the bike-sharing industry with the rollout of an upgraded technology platform that features the first Bluetooth ring lock for a bike-share system in North America. The new platform simplifies the overall process for checking out, locking and riding a bike, making Zagster's bike-share programs easier and more convenient for riders. Zagster partnered with AXA Bike Security, a subsidiary of Allegion, the largest lock manufacturer in the world, to develop the technology.

The Bluetooth-enabled ring lock is mounted to the bike frame and encircles the rear wheel. When engaged, the lock prevents the rear wheel from spinning or being removed. Two sturdy cables -- one securely attached to each station dock, and one retracted inside each bike -- connect to the ring lock, allowing riders to tether bikes to Zagster stations at the end of their trips, or to public bike racks for mid-ride stops.

By directly integrating the Bluetooth lock with the rider's phone, Zagster bikes will be available at the touch of a button, a key benefit for today's mobile-first riders. Because there are no detachable pieces that could be misplaced or misused, the new user experience is versatile, convenient and hassle-free.

"We're deploying this new technology platform across the entire Zagster fleet as part of our ongoing commitment to making our bike-sharing systems the easiest, most flexible and most convenient," said Timothy Ericson, Zagster co-founder and CEO. "With our business model, customers get continuously new and updated technology -- whether it is bikes, racks, apps or locking systems -- ensuring that they always have the best systems."

In addition to the new locking system, the new platform includes upgrades to the Zagster mobile app. A sleek new interface simplifies the rider experience, while an enhanced backend bolsters Zagster's data analytics to optimize how the company tracks and measures bike-share use, helping its customers adapt and grow their bike-share programs.

"Our design challenge was to create a system that balanced the need for simplicity and usability with iron-clad security," said Harmen Treep, director AXA Bike Security. "This new implementation of the ring lock technology meets both imperatives, and we're looking forward to setting a new standard for bike shares in North America."

Zagster is deploying the new technology onto 500 bikes across multiple markets this quarter for testing and feedback before a fleet-wide rollout in Spring 2017. When fully deployed, this will result in transformative upgrades that will improve the accessibility and usability of bike sharing for all of Zagster's more than 50,000 members nationwide.

About Zagster 
Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., Zagster is one of the oldest and fastest-growing bike-share providers in North America.

Zagster powers more than 130 unique bike-sharing programs in areas where traditional bike-share providers can't reach, including college and corporate campuses, small cities and towns, and commercial and residential real estate developments. The company's goal: To make the bike the most loved form of transportation in every community.

More information about Zagster and its programs can be found at www.zagster.com.