Comparing the performance of different types of bike share systems

Abstract

Abstract Bike share systems (BSSs) can be implemented in different types: station-based, dockless, and hybrid. Existing literature lacks models to quantitatively compare and assist the selection of system types. This study proposed a stochastic simulation framework to compare how different system types may impact user experience and system operations. The framework estimates actual origins-destinations of travel demands and integrates the user behavior model and rebalance optimization model. Applying the framework to three cities’ BSSs, our simulation results found that, although station capacities restrict bike allocations, the forced rerouting trips (returning bikes to neighboring stations when target stations are full) indirectly rebalance station-based systems. This benefit is lost in dockless systems, partially canceling the benefit of bike allocation flexibility. However, dockless users can save trip time by 10%–15% with bike access/return. Overall, systems with high usage-intensity (e.g., those in Philadelphia and Chicago) can benefit from transitioning their station-based systems into hybrid systems.