Back in April I wrote about a new bike share program coming to New York, Citi Bike.

I’ve seen bike share programs around the world, the first time being in Copenhagen. When I first heard of the bike share in Copenhagen, I had to try it out, especially since it was free. While the bikes weren’t great it was still a fun activity and a great way to get around. (Find out more about it in the link above.)

The biggest difference I noticed when I head about Citi Bike in NYC were the high costs to use the program if you wanted to use a bike for more than a short ride. The NY program is more beneficial to locals than a fun way for tourists to borrow bikes while visiting the city.

From Citi Bike: If you would like to use a bike for an extended period of time, we encourage you to rent a bike at a local bike shop or rental business.

When you pay for a Citi Bike annual membership ($95 per year) it allows you unlimited 45 minute trips. Once you dock your bike you can then start another 45 minute trip. If you do not dock the bike within the allotted time, you incur overtime fees. 

If you purchase a 24 hour or 7 day pass ($9.95 & $25), you are allowed unlimited 30 minute trips. Once you dock your bike, you can start another 30 minute trip. If you don’t dock within the alloted time, you incur overtime fees.

Here is a way to try out Citi Bike for Half Price.

If you’d like to try out Citi Bike, Travelzoo Local Deals has a 50% off  deal on passes good through November 30, 2014.

• For $5 (including tax) you can purchase one 24 hour pass
• For $12 (including tax) you can get one 7 day pass

You can book this Travelzoo Deal until December 9.

If you’d like to purchase a Citi Bike pass at half price, click HERE.