New York Sets Sights on Bike Sharing in 2012

"Officials also want the bicycles, which must have a 'one size fits all' design, to be resistant to rust, scratches and graffiti, perhaps in hope of warding off a subway-style tagging epidemic.

The program could begin as early as April 2012; the city hopes the initial stage will include about 10,000 bikes. A two-month test of the program, with at least 30 bicycle kiosks, could occur as early as next summer, the documents said."

The system's planners are also proposing a website where riders can check on the availability of bicycles at nearby stations.