The bike share starts in May.
New York City has already sold 5,000 Citi Bike memberships, the city announced today.
A special version of the $95 annual memberships, which only became available yesterday, were sold out by 3:30 p.m.
“New Yorkers are clearly ready to take advantage of the quick, convenient travel our bike share program will provide,” Department of Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan said. “It’s a strong early sign of success.”
The city announced yesterday that the first 5,000 people to sign up would receive keys and ride exclusively during the first week of the system’s launch along with a $10 coupon for a bike helmet.
The memberships provide one year of unlimited free rides under 45 minutes or less.
The bike share, which opens in May, includes 6,000 bikes at 330 stations around Brooklyn and Manhattan south of 59th Street.
Ultimately, the city hopes to install 10,000 bikes in neighborhoods including the Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Long Island City and Sunnyside in Queens and Park Slope, Cobble Hill and Prospect Heights in Brooklyn.
The DOT said it spoke to hundreds of New Yorkers to garner input about the system.
Aside from the annual memberships, the bike share also offers 24-hour and seven-day passes. Prices start at $9,95, according to city plans.
The bike share is intended for trips shorter than 45 minutes, according to organizers.
The program was delayed several times, including when Hurricane Sandy damaged equipment.
