Bike key basics

We highly encourage riders to use the Transit app over bike keys. It’s easy and convenient to unlock a bike using the app, plus you can find stations, plan your ride and more.

Bike Keys are recyclable! Just drop the key into any plastics recycling bin in Columbus.

How to use your bike key

To unlock a bike with a key, insert your bike key into the slot on the dock next to an available bike.

When the light on the dock turns green, the bike is unlocked.

Pull the bike out of the dock by the handlebars or lift the bike by the seat to release it.

Need to request a new key?

If your key is lost or stolen, please contact CoGo customer service, to deactivate your key and prevent fraudulent use. Any fees incurred by your key before you have reported it as lost or stolen will be your responsibility.

If you would like to receive a new bike key, you can submit a request via our contact form. You can purchase a new one through Customer Service for $10. We’ll ship one to you shortly! 

When you receive a new bike key, you must activate it before you can start using it. Log into your account online and click “Activate Your Bike Key”. You’ll need the ID code on your bike key, which can be found right below the barcode. Once you've completed this step, your key is ready to use!

If you forget your bike key, you can use the Transit app to get a temporary ride code. To ride, find the CoGo card or tap the closest pin on the map, select "Get a Bike" and enter your 5-digit ride code into the keypad of any dock with an available bike to unlock it.