Jaunt Micro Mobility Launches E-Bike Rental Service in Sioux Falls
Last Updated on September 20, 2024 by Kristina Grant
This month, Sioux Falls in South Dakota welcomed a new short-term electric bike rental service, Jaunt Micro Mobility LLC, to its downtown area after months of preparation. Co-founders Kallie Larsen and Samantha O’Neil are excited to introduce their sleek black e-bikes, designed specifically for the community.
“We’re not just some corporate entity coming in to take over,” O’Neil emphasized. “We’re local residents who created this service with Sioux Falls in mind, making it a community-centered offering.”
The inspiration for Jaunt came after the founders experienced e-bike rentals during a trip to the Twin Cities. “We did extensive research on various bike-share programs,” Larsen explained. “We wanted to create something tailored to our city, as we noticed a lack of community-driven options for electric mobility in Sioux Falls.”
Unlike the electric scooter rentals that faced challenges in the past, Downtown Sioux Falls President Joe Batcheller noted that e-bikes align more easily with local regulations. “Bikes can be legally used on streets, and we have designated bike racks available for parking, making them a safer option,” he said.
Riders are required to accept safety guidelines through the Jaunt app, which outlines rules about speed limits and parking. “We’ve collaborated closely with the city to ensure we adhere to all safety ordinances,” O’Neil shared. “We’re also mindful of the available bike racks, ensuring we don’t overcrowd areas while still providing access for riders.”
Early feedback from the community has been largely positive. “People seem cautiously optimistic,” Batcheller observed. “Many residents have welcomed this new service, and my first ride was fantastic.”
The Jaunt app makes it easy for users to locate and unlock e-bikes around the city. “Once registered, finding and riding a bike is a breeze,” Larsen explained. “You just scan the QR code, hit start, and you’re off. You can even pause your ride whenever you need.”
The co-owners are grateful for the support they’ve received and are committed to continuously improving their service. “Seeing people enjoy the bikes and stop at local businesses has been incredibly rewarding,” O’Neil said. “We’re actively working on feedback to ensure our service meets the needs of Sioux Falls.”
Looking ahead, Jaunt Micro Mobility hopes to expand beyond downtown, though they aim to do so thoughtfully. “We’ve heard from riders who want access to other parts of the city, like the mall and key intersections,” O’Neil said. “Our goal is to provide coverage while promoting local businesses through our platform.”
Ideally, they would have launched earlier in the summer for maximum exposure, but they faced delays with app approval. However, they plan to continue operations into the colder months, albeit with a reduced fleet.
For more information on renting a bike and other details, visit Jaunt’s FAQ page.
Ready to explore Sioux Falls on two wheels? Try out Jaunt Micro Mobility’s new e-bike rental service today! Share your experience with us in the comments below or tag us on social media with your ride photos. Let’s keep the conversation going!
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Kristina Grant is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
