The skyrocketing costs of fuel and increasing concerns for the environment have been an incentive for many to use bicycles as a main mode of transportation. Inexpensive, healthy, and decidedly green, bikes have been making a comeback for commuters and leisure-seekers alike. Many cities have capitalized on this new trend with public bike rental programs, based on popular European programs in bike cities like Amsterdam and Paris. Washington DC is the latest addition to the public bike rental program – and has developed a bike rental program that relies on ID cards.

The program works like this – people who wish to have bikes at their disposal (at any time of day) register and become members of the SmartBike DC program. For $40, you get access to bikes in the DC area, and a card that allows you to “check out” the bikes. When you’re ready to hit the open road, hold your card up to a reader on a SmartBike bike rack, and collect your bike. Go for a spin (please wear a helmet), and return your bike to any rack when you’re done. It’s that easy – and thanks to the contactless smart card, there’s no need to fuss with change or keys!