Hum... But what if......?

We're sure you have some questions and concerns regarding Trans-Atlantic BikeShare and BikeSharing in general. You should! Will BikeShare can be a wonderful experience and a great addition to your motorcycling, it isn't for everyone. Below we have tried to answer some of the questions you may have.

Q: If I join, do I have to complete a BikeShare with any member that contacts me?

A: No. Of course we want all of our members to make every effort to help each other out. That is the spirit of the program. However, you may already have some other commitments or obligations at that time. Additionally, you need to feel as comfortable as you can with each BikeShare. This is the reason Tony and I do not "arrange" the Bikeshares. Each aspect of the BikeShare is a personal decision between you and the other member(s). With the help of Tony, me and the experience of the other members hopefully you will be able to move into many BikeShares with a good degree of confidence.

Q: After I borrow another member's motorcycle, do I have to wait for them to complete their BikeShare with me before I go off on another BikeShare adventure?

>A: No. From the very beginning Tony and I saw this concept as being more of a "Time Bank." Because the members have different plans, schedules and trips in mind it would be just about impossible to keep all BikeShares at a 1:1 Ratio. However, if this is what you would wish to do, then that is fine. For example, I have been on two BikeShares and only loaned my bike out once. There were other contacts and scheduled visits, but schedules changed for them and it didn't work out.

Q: Okay, so I loan my motorcycle out and something happens to it. What then?

A: Naturally, this is a very important concern and one we want you to understand very well. Depending on where you live, insurance policies, practices and regulations will vary. In some locations you can add the person to your policy for a reasonable fee, in other places they are covered under your existing policy if the operator has your permission to use your motorcycle. One thing we recommend is that you look into your policy to your satisfaction and do not leave this question to chance. Historically, if there is an additional charge to temporarily add a member to your policy, it is a nominal amount that the borrowing member shouldn't mind covering.

Q: What if there is a mechanical problem during the process? How is that handled?

A: This is a question with many possibilities, so it is best to look at the answer from a common sense point of view. For items such as tire punctures, fuses and daily incidentals it makes sense for the person using the bike to take care. However, if there is a random component failure like and alternator it would probably make sense to get it repaired so that you could continue with your BikeShare. Later, you and your BikeShare partner could work out any required reimbursement. Naturally, it is best to have an understanding about these things prior to your BikeShare.

Q: If I am part of a club that would be interested in this, do we have to pay a membership fee for each member in the club?

A: No. Clubs can receive special rates. It makes perfect sense for a club to join. They can offer this service to their member for less then the price of an individual Trans-Atlantic BikeShare membership. contact Tony or Tom for specific details

Q: Do I need to have a BMW motorcycle or any specific brand of motorcycle to become a member?

A: No. Trans-Atlantic BikeShare is open to all brands. We do have many members with BMW motorcycles. We have found, that by coincidence, BMW owners in particular like this concept. If you, as an individual or club, are interested in only arranging BikeShares with members with specific brands, we can accommodate that.

Q: Are there any restrictions to how many BikeShares I can organize per year?

A: No. We do not restrict how many BikeShares our members can organize. Naturally, there will be limitations based on the schedules of other members, seasons, the number of members in the location(s) you wish to go to.

Q: Is there an additional charge for each BikeShare I arrange?

A: No. It's just that simple!

Q: What is a "TourShare" member?

A: This is a feature that evolved from the organization over time. TourShare members are our members who have agreed to help out in some additional way such as route planning, road service, garage space, bed, space, coffee and chat or someone to ride along with when you're passing through. When I did my first BikeShare, before there was a Trans-Atlantic BikeShare, I found Tony to be a great resource for suggestions and tips for what to see, where to go, what to do and what to avoid. As the organization has evolved, we have found Trans-Atlantic BikeShare has become a great resource for other members. Maybe you need some help picking a route, getting information on local services or just want to meet up with another member who has some similar interests. There is probably a TourShare member that can help.