A moment of wishful thinking takes us to the open roads with the wind in our hair and the exhilaration of witnessing new and beautiful destinations. Jumping onto a motorcycle and riding for hours away from the noisy city and over the most exquisite terrains is a step into the most beautiful dream until reality comes to check-in and we realize that a motorcycle involves a hefty expense. Well, that is where you are wrong.
With the technological surge, it is possible to achieve anything. Mobile phone applications have certainly made our life much easier and every day we discover new dimensions of it. To make your dreams of traveling come true, there are bike rental mobile applications now. These are simply digital applications developed by tech companies through which bike owners or suppliers can give their bikes to you for hire at any place and time.
The global bike rental market was valued at $2.1 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach $11.3 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 18.5% from 2022 to 2031. The Indian counterpart of Uber is Ola which provides rental car services and has invested in a start-up named Vogo that provides bike rental services. The bike rental app market is ripe and on the rise and a very good investment in the current economy.
If you are considering stepping into bike rental mobile app development, it is necessary to have a thorough knowledge of the market. Look into the already existing rental companies and assess their app design, interface, the services they offer, and the products on their app. The next step would be to hire an app development company. Look into the company and make your interests align and if they do, it is fit for your business.
Bike rental mobile apps are very simple. The consumer has to download the app from Play Store or App Store. Once the app has been installed, the consumer has to register himself on the app with some identification details and enlist his/her location and payment method. Then the customer is free to rent a bike from the catalog available within his/her proximity.
Before jumping into the bike rental mobile app development bandwagon, these are some of the features you must consider putting in your app
- Login/Registration: This is the first step for a consumer to be able to access all the services of the application. A simple registration or login process is quite important as a means of identification.
- Product Range: This will determine the quality of service your company will be able to provide. The type of motorbike your app will offer will depend on the investment you are making into the company. Your products will also vary in color, make, brand, and other such specifications.
- Booking Options: This section will have several subcategories required to take a booking from a customer, like booking time, duration, location, and different rental options. Pickups, cancellations, delivery, and fares will also be under this category. You can also design another section for premium members who will receive special privileges.
- Payment Section: This is where you can offer your customers various payment methods so it is easier for them. Though, this can be quite complex and strenuous for the app developers and the accountant.
- Service Bot and Call Support: A friendly user interface is a key to the success of an app. Service bots for live chat and a responsive call support system can go a long way to help you build a good reputation in the market and help you acquire a hefty client list.
- Admin Panel: This section is for the admins or those who manage and run the app. It consists of a Dashboard, Analytics section, Verifications bar, Database, and other such options so you are always updated about your company’s progress and limitations.
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Benefits Of Developing A Bike Rental Mobile App
- For Customers
- With a well-developed application, a booking is just a matter of a few seconds.
- It is a cost-effective substitute for purchasing a motorbike.
- Since there are plenty of apps available in the motorbike rental market, a customer has the freedom to check out all the viable options and compare prices before choosing one.
- The apps are GPS enabled which makes it easy for the customer to find the bike.
- Most of these apps offer an array of payment methods which is an added advantage to the users.
- Bike rental apps are always offering promotional discounts and loyalty points to their long-term customers, which is a bonus.
- For Bike Owners
- Bike owners can ensure maximum usage of their bikes by registering on a bike rental app.
- The maintenance cost of the bike is covered through this side income.
- The bike owners have the liberty to administer their bookings through the dashboard on the app. This way they have a proper analysis of their performance.
- It is a good way to make some easy money. The bike owner can offer promo codes and discounts to draw in more customers.
How Do Bike Rental Mobile Apps Work?
Bike rentals platforms are developed to provide customers with two-wheelers that are cost-effective, hassle-free, and on-demand. The customers have to have the app installed and register to access the application and rent bikes. The process is quite simple.
- The consumer has to download the app from Play Store or App Store.
- Once the app has been installed, the customer has to register him/herself on the app with some identification details and enlist his/her location and payment method.
- Then the customer is free to rent a bike from the catalog available within his/her proximity.
- To book a two-wheeler, the customer has to select a booking date/time and location.
- Then he/she has to select a vehicle from the given catalogue. Each bike comes with a detailed description which makes it easier for the customer to decide.
- Once the bike and the required accessories have been booked, the customer gets an option to review the whole booking before making the payment.
- Then the customer has an option to choose a payment method from the multiple options available and confirm the booking.
- The rental apps offer two types of delivery services. They can drop it at your doorstep for a charge or the customer can opt to pick up the vehicle from a nearby bike station.
- When the bike is to be returned, the same services as the delivery are offered.
- The admin can track the bike and the rider through the app’s enabled GPS.
Types Of Business Models Of Bike Rentals Mobile Apps
- Aggregator Model
This model acts as a generic platform where various independent bike owners and private bike companies can put up their bikes for rent. The platform has a huge database of vehicles for customers to choose from. In the aggregator model, all the functions from listing the bike, delivering it, and collecting the payment are done by individual vendors. The admin only manages the overall performance of the app. The individual bike owners have to pay a percentage of their revenues to the admins for listing their bikes on their app. - Self-Owned Fleet
This model happens when an individual vendor who owns a fleet of bikes decides to rent out his bikes for the money. There is only one owner in this case. Most start-ups in India follow this business model as it gives them absolute autonomy over the services and the income incurred. Nevertheless, this model requires greater investment than the Aggregator model.
Why Should You Invest In Motorbike Rental App Development?
Bike rental apps have gained severe momentum in the last couple of years. Bike rental start-ups in India have achieved major success because rentals are cheap, efficient, and convenient. The motorcycle business is very lucrative as there are abundant travelers and motorcycle enthusiasts in the world. The global bike and scooter rental market is projected to grow from USD 2.5 billion in 2019 to 10.1 billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 18.9%.
Several factors have contributed to the boom in the bike rental industry
- The massive rise in tourism in countries like the US, UK, India, and other Asian countries. Tourists like to travel to local areas on rented bikes.
- It is the most convenient and economical way of commuting.
- While the big motorcycle brands like Harley Davidson, Royal Enfield, Ducati, etc., have gained immense popularity, owning a premium bike like one of these is very expensive. So the concept of renting comes in very handy.
- In this e-commerce market, successful delivery apps such as Amazon, Flipkart, Uber, etc., provide ample opportunity for more successful app development.
- Developing a bike rental app requires a good amount of investment, but in the end, it is fruitful. There are two kinds of business models: the Aggregator and the self-owned fleet models.
- It is advisable to go over all the steps of app development before making the decision to invest in one.
Monetization Opportunities In Motorbike Rental Mobile Apps
Apps are often the best and the easiest way to make money if you know how to monetize your app. Monetization can be done to earn both direct and indirect revenue.
- Advertisements
This is the easiest way of earning indirect revenue through the app. It is when a third party contacts the app owner and buys a small space in the app to advertise and promote its brand and products. Having these collaborations is absolutely necessary for the app to be successful. For third-party promotions, the app owners can either charge money for the amount of time the ad stays on the app or charge them money through the cost-per-click and cost-per-mile methods. - Commissions
The aggregator business model has a linear income system. The bike owners that register their bikes on an app have to share a percentage of each of their booking income with the app owners. The customers who book a bike also have to pay a certain amount of money which is covered in the final payment. A small cancellation fee is charged if the customers cancel their booking before availing of the service. - Multiple Payment Methods
This is where you can offer your customers various payment methods so it is easier for them. Having both offline and online payment methods will help you garner more customers. - Promotional Discounts
Usually, the bike owners are the ones who post promotional codes and discounts, but the app owners can do that as well. These incentives attract more customers and keep the revenue flowing. - Physical and Logistical Considerations
Before starting off in the bike rental app business, it is important to figure out the logistics to make sure you can meet the demand with the number of two-wheelers your business has. If your app cannot meet the demands, the app will likely be unsuccessful.
Top Bike Rental Mobile Apps In 2021
Spinlister
Spinlister is a premier bike rental and sharing app that connects bike owners and renters all over the world. Through their app, bike owners can list their bikes, and people willing to rent have to simply search for bikes in their areas and rent them. The whole rental process is hassle-free and Spinlister offers various protection and delivery services that keep their customers satisfied. Spinlister has an uncomplicated three-step rental procedure:
- Find the perfect ride
Through searches like cities, zip codes, models, and available dates you can find the perfect ride for you. - Book ride and pay
After selecting your perfect ride, you can put in a request or message the owner directly. Then book and make an online payment through the Spinlister app and go cashless and stress-free for your rise. - Get the ride and have fun
Bike owners can earn approximately $500 per month renting their bikes and renters can travel inexpensively and efficiently.
Wheelstreet
This is one of the most successful bike rental app start-ups in India. It is a start-up based on the aggregator business model, founded by Pranay Srivastava, Moksha Srivastava, and Mrityunjay Jha in June 2014. Their aim has been to make two-wheelers accessible to the Indian population, so they can enjoy a safe and hassle-free journey. They take bookings through their website and their mobile apps and have a separate section for listing vendors who can manage their own dashboard. The company started off as a team of four and a fleet of 200 bikes and has now expanded to 18 major cities in India with an arsenal of 10,000 bikes. They have extensive future plans to spread their arms to other Asian countries and provide other rental services such as jackets, accessories, gears, and tents
Lime
Lime is a sustainable bike rental company, offering services in almost 100 cities across the globe. This bike rental is simple to use after it has been installed. Those willing to rent have to install the app and look for the bike stops nearest to them. They have to pick the bike from the stop and start the ride by entering it in the app. A rider must follow certain guidelines mentioned in the app to comply with road rules and regulations laid down by the authorities of that country. It can be installed on both iOS and Android.
Donkey Republic
This is another bike rental service app where the renter or the rider does not have to go to any bike stop; instead, the bike is delivered to them. Though they are based in Copenhagen their app and services are available across various countries. Those who subscribe to the advanced features do not have to carry their identification proofs, they do not have to dock at a bike stop, and they can go cashless because both the booking and the payment are done on the app itself. This app is compatible with both iOS and Android.
Smart Bike
This is another efficient bike rental app that locates the bikes nearest you, so you don’t have to do it yourself. As the app is GPS enabled, it can automatically pick up your location and show you all the nearest bike stops around you. The app is available on Android and iOS devices and allows users to select bikes according to their preferences.
Citi Bike
This is one of America’s most popular and commonly used bike rental apps for short durations. The app has over 13,000 bikes in over 350 stations across the country. All you have to do is install the app on your device, and the stars locate the nearest bike stops for you, and you can start the ride on the app as soon as you rent it and end it upon finishing. The renters are charged based on the bike type and duration of travel. This app is also compatible with both Android and iOS.
ZipHop
ZipHop is an online start-up bike rental platform based in Goa. The platform is mainly for bikes and self-drive cars. They have expanded their business to Bengaluru and Mumbai recently. ZipHop was founded in November 2015 by a team of 5, Ankit Chaturvedi, Apoorv Agarwal, Dushyant Singh, Sudhanshu Saxena, and Sumit Hablani. ZipHop has a four-step online booking process, after which you enjoy your ride. From Honda Activa to Harley Davidson, the customer can choose from various bikes registered on this platform. The company also provides riders with a complimentary helmet and 24/7 roadside assistance as their protection policy. ZipHop, once a start-up, is now motivated to create a stronger presence in the cities where they are currently operating and introduce bicycle rental services in the future.
Attributes Of A Successful Bike Rental Mobile App
The success of a bike rental app is dependent on the special attributes that are integrated into it. The more the enhancements are, the more people will avail of the services. Here are some of the significant qualities that a good bike rental app should possess:
Self-intuitive user Interface
A bike rental app must have a user-friendly interface that users can easily understand and operate. Users should be able to decipher and use it easily without help or assistance. This will give the users a satisfactory experience and make the app more pleasant.
Compatible prices
Bike rental apps are growing in popularity because of their reasonable prices. For a bike rental app to be successful, you have to improve the revenues through promotions and advertisements instead of charging excess money from the customers.
Provides a wide range to hire
It is more likely to hire several people for various roles, boosting employment.
Live chat & call support
The app must offer live chat and call support services in case the customers face any issues. Users can easily contact the support team without making unnecessary calls and wasting their time.
Bike owner and customer authentication
Everyone wanting to rent a bike must sign up with proper identification and a photograph. Similarly, bike owners must do the same to establish their credibility and build customer trust.
Bike insurance management
Having bike insurance is very important. In case a bike suffers any damage, a claim can be made to cover the cost of the damage.
On-time bike repair management
Another attribute that makes a bike rental app successful is having a repair management facility for the damage that the bikes may suffer.
Friendly cancellation and refund policy
The most user-friendly attribute that a bike rental app can have is a hassle-free cancellation and refund policy. Therefore, one attribute that makes an app successful is that one can cancel a ride even after booking by informing the bike owners prior to canceling it, and the refund should immediately be processed.
Advanced Features Of A Bike Rental Mobile App
Social Login/Sign up
One of the most crucial features that an app can have is an easy and quick registration procedure. Therefore, the app should have the faculty be linked with the social media accounts like Facebook or Gmail so that anyone willing to rent can directly sign up with their information in any one of these accounts. This saves them time as they do not have to enter the details repeatedly. Also, all users need to have a separate account for themselves on their devices so that the GPS can be enabled and can be used in the app.
Push Notifications
This feature is useful to the admin and the app owners when informing users about any new product launch. They can also send updates about the app. One can also send out notifications if they are introducing any offers or discounts on the services.
Behaviour Tracking
This is one of the essential features of a bike rental app as it helps the admin/ owners remain assured of the bike owners and the bike renters who are registering on the app. The app tracks the behavior of the riders and records them for future purposes. This way, the app owner is aware that a customer is problematic in the future.
In-app Document Scanning and Uploading
Since most of the bikes are to be self-driven, the renters are required to upload their proper identification so the owners can be sure that the bike will be safe with them. This one feature allows the users to directly upload their documents on the app as it provides them a scanner in case an app asks them to upload their scanned documents.
In-app Camera
The inbuilt camera is a feature that doesn’t restrict the users from clicking any pictures. If someone does not want to go through the hassle of scanning their documents, they can take pictures and upload them.
Chat with Owner
This feature helps in connecting the person who wants to rent a bike and the owner of that bike. The app enables them to get in touch with the assistance of this feature.
Smart Search
One can simply type the name of the bike they want to rent, and the dropdown will give them the best possible options, closest to your search words, and show the best options. This will save time for the users.
Real-Time Analytics
This one is for the app owner who can keep control over the functioning of the app and its business. The real-time analytics helps them get an insight into how the business is functioning, how many bikes are on the move, and the areas in which they have been assigned.
Manage Insurance and Repairing
This feature is again for the owners as they are the ones who are accountable for the damage to any bikes, and therefore, they have to claim the insurance and cover the repair costs.
CMS Integration
This is a system to store information and retrieve it at any point in time.
Effective CRM system
This is an essential feature that requires no introduction. Like all other apps, this one, too, needs integrated customer relationship management. It is beneficial for the users as they can turn up to customer support in case they get stuck while using the app.
Marketing and Promotional Tool
You must have integrated promotional tools to get your app to the public and help them know about it. This will help you reach the masses and get a better output of your app.
Team Structure Required In Developing A Bike Rental App
At the center of any app development process is a dedicated team that works relentlessly. They are the most crucial part of the project as they conceive, design, and develop the application from scratch. It is of utmost importance to get the most efficient team and get the best app made. If you plan to launch a bike rental app, you should consider approaching app development companies. They can assist you in the best way to get the best team on board.
The following are personnel requirements for building a bike rental mobile application:
- Project manager
- iOS developers
- UI/UX designer
- Android developer
- Back end developer
- Quality analyst professionals
Best Tech Stack Required To Develop A Bike Rental App
Hiring a good and efficient team is not enough; having a reliable tech stack is also important so that the app performs well and is glitch-free. The following is the tech stack required for developing a bike-renting app:
- Push notifications: Twilio and Push.io
- Cloud environment: AWS, Google, and Azure
- Database: MongoDB, Cassandra, Postgress, and MailChimp Integration
- Mobile platforms: Android and iOS
- Real-time analytics: Cisco, Spark, Hadoop, IBM, and Big Data
- Voice, SMS, and phone verification: Nexmo and Twilio
- Payments: PayPal, Braintree, e-Wallets
How Much Does It Cost To Develop A Bike Rental Mobile App?
The expense of developing an app is the most basic and important question we think of if you plan to develop a mobile app for a bike rental app. The estimated expense helps you decide the budget for your app development. Since there are a lot of factors that contribute to the estimating of the amount spent on the development of the app, it is necessary to consider all of them. It is impossible to draw an exact amount as app development depends on many contributing factors, such as the following.
Location
App developers charge differently depending on their geographical location. While the app developers in North and South America can charge the app owners an exorbitant amount of money, the ones in Europe will considerably be reasonable, and the Asian developers charge extremely less for their work. Take a look at their rates according to their locations:
- U.S. USD 150 – USD 250 per hour
- U.K. USD 150 – USD 180 per hour
- Asia USD 60 – USD 120 per hour
Features
The more features you add to the app, the higher the price will go. An MVP will cost much less than a complex app that has too many features in it.
Platform
An app will not have the same development procedure across platforms. The apps developed from different platforms like android and iOS have different interfaces and usability. The ones that are compatible with all platforms will have an entirely different process, hence the price difference.
Design
The layout and design of the app also contribute to the price of the app. A simple design will cost less than a complex one
Why Choose Appquipo For Bike Rental Mobile App Development
Appquipo is a reliable and experienced Mobile App Development Company specializing in developing bike rental mobile apps. Here are some reasons why you should choose Appquipo for your bike rental mobile app development:
- Expertise: Appquipo has a team of highly skilled developers who have expertise in developing mobile apps for bike rental services. They have extensive knowledge of the latest technologies and can provide innovative solutions to meet your business needs.
- Customized solutions: Appquipo provides customized solutions that cater to your business requirements. They work closely with you to understand and develop a mobile app that meets your needs.
- Quality assurance: Appquipo ensures that the mobile app they develop is high quality and meets all the necessary standards. They conduct rigorous testing and quality checks to ensure the app is error-free and functions smoothly.
- Affordable pricing: Appquipo offers cost-effective solutions that are tailored to your budget. They provide transparent pricing and do not have any hidden charges.
- Timely delivery: Appquipo understands the importance of timely delivery and ensures that the mobile app is delivered within the stipulated timeframe.
- Excellent support: Appquipo provides excellent customer support and maintenance services to ensure your mobile app functions smoothly and efficiently.
Appquipo is a reliable and trusted partner for your bike rental mobile app development needs. Their expertise, customized solutions, quality assurance, affordable pricing, timely delivery, and excellent support make them the ideal choice for your business.
Conclusion
In conclusion, developing a bike rental mobile app requires careful planning and execution. From understanding your business requirements to choosing the right technology stack and ensuring a smooth user experience, there are several factors that you need to consider. However, with the right partner and a well-defined roadmap, you can develop a mobile app that meets your business needs and provides an excellent user experience.
If you plan to develop a bike rental mobile app, we hope this complete guide has provided valuable insights and guidance. At Appquipo, we specialize in developing mobile apps for bike rental services and can provide customized solutions that cater to your specific needs. Contact us today to discuss your project and take the first step towards developing a successful bike rental mobile app.
