By Cameron Miller |ContributorIf you are a student on the Summerville campus of Augusta University, you almost certainly know about the new JagRide Bike Share system available to students. For no charge, you can rent a bike for up to 30 minutes, after which a fee of $5 per hour is applied. After spending 30 minutes on one of the bikes, I can assure you the process is simple and the experience is worth it.I started by setting up an account with my student email address on the Social Bicycle app, available to Android and iPhone users. From there, I was guided with step-by-step instructions on how to unlock the bicycles and utilize them. Despite the adage “it’s like riding a bike,” it took me a minute or two to get used the way the bike rides. As soon as I got the hang of the three gears, it was smooth sailing.I started by circling the campus once and then stopped in front of Payne Hall for a resting break. I then rode around Fanning Hall and returned to the bike stop behind University Hall. Throughout my short excursion, I took several photos.One interesting aspect of the bikes is the “hold” lock. By using the U-bar on the back, you can lock your bike to a hub in a public area, during which a complimentary 30 minutes of hold time is allowed. If students are on a tight budget and want to ensure they do not spend too much time on the bikes, there is a timer on the system installed on the back. This feature is particularly helpful if you are making a stop for food or sights. The bike also includes a basket at the front, which I assume is designed for the storage of a bookbag or container.Whether you want some exercise before class, a bite to eat between classes or a practical means for sightseeing, the bike rentals are an exciting new opportunity. For students without a primary mode of transportation, then this can be a useful investment since they are quick and convenient. Even students with cars should consider the aerobic benefits a relatively economical bike ride provides.Something as simple as a short trip around campus or downtown will remind you of how picturesque the views are and how invigorating exploration can be.Contact Cameron Miller at CAMMILLER@augusta.edu.
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