Whizz Bike Rentals VS Joco Bike Rentals: A Comprehensive Comparison

The world of bike rentals has witnessed a tremendous transformation over the past couple of years, especially in the realm of last-mile deliveries. Gig workers and companies are increasingly turning to electric bikes, which offer a more efficient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional modes of transportation.

In this blog, we'll explore and compare two of the most prominent players in the bike rental industry – Whizz and Joco.

Joco Bike Rentals

Joco is an innovative platform that caters specifically to gig workers and companies involved in last-mile delivery services. Their high-tech platform and LEV infrastructure network are designed to eliminate the hassles of bike ownership, including storage, charging, and maintenance.

What’s more, Joco has a strong social mission. They're dedicated to reducing carbon emissions and alleviating congestion in urban areas, and with over 50 locations throughout NYC, Joco makes it convenient for delivery couriers to access their electric bikes quickly. Couriers can also lock Joco bikes in between deliveries directly from the app, making the process efficient and hassle-free.

Whizz Bike Rentals

Whizz Bike Rentals, on the other hand, offers a bike that can take you anywhere you want, making it a lucrative option for delivery riders. Their approach is straightforward - for a minimum one-month subscription, you get unlimited access to an electric bike throughout the subscription period. This is in stark contrast to Joco’s model, where you have to constantly check their app for available bikes, and spots disappear fast.

With a strong commitment to ease of use and accessibility, Whizz aims to make it simple for riders to get on the road and start earning money. The company also provides a free test ride before renting an electric bike, and once you’ve secured a subscription, you can pick up your bike on the same day.

Required Documents

Whizz

Joco

Pricing and Plans

Joco Bike Rentals

Joco offers the following pricing plans for delivery riders (on 06/09/2023):

• Delivery Six-Hour Pass: For $12 USD, you can enjoy unlimited 6-hour e-bike rentals and make deliveries for 6 hours. However, bikes must be returned to a Joco location within this timeframe.
• Delivery Day Pass: Priced at $21 USD per day, this pass provides unlimited 6-hour e-bike rentals for a period of 24 hours. As with other plans, bikes must be returned to a Joco location within 6 hours.
• Delivery Week Pass: For $65 USD per week, couriers can access unlimited 6-hour rentals for delivery within a 1-week period. Bikes must be returned within the specified time.

All of Joco's E-bikes are electrically assisted, providing a boost that effortlessly takes riders to speeds of up to 20 mph. A fully charged E-bike has a range of approximately 30 miles. Couriers can conveniently monitor their speed, charge status, and trip distance in real-time through the built-in display on the bike.

Whizz Bike Rentals

Whizz offers a subscription-based model:

• E-bike Subscription: starting at $149 per month, riders can access an electric bike for their delivery needs without worrying about having to return it every few hours. This works out to 40 a week or $5.30 a day. The subscription includes free maintenance and repairs, and Whizz provides a basket, a charger, and a safety lock upon availability.

Whizz also offers optional services such as a protection plan for $29 per month, covering 50% of serious mechanical failures and reducing the cost to $400 in case of theft or loss of the e-bike. For added safety, they offer a helmet for $29 and a durable backpack for $45, both of which you can keep even after returning the bike. Riders can earn up to $100 per referred client, adding a potential income stream.

Bike Selection

Joco Bike Rentals

Joco offers a diverse fleet of electric bikes that can last 30 miles when fully charged. Their e-bikes are designed to be pedaled just like regular bikes, with the added benefit of electric assistance. However, because the bikes are constantly changing hands, most have poor shock absorption on the front fork or none at all, which leads to poor battery performance, lower back issues for the drivers, and the destruction of essential components such as the battery.

Whizz Bike Rentals

Whizz presents two distinct e-bike models for delivery riders:

• Storm: This e-bike boasts a range of up to 60 miles on a single battery charge with pedal assist, a total payload capacity of 300 lbs, and a quick charger. The bike is also equipped with a hydraulic brake system for enhanced safety.
• Breeze: With a range of up to 50 miles per charge with pedal assist, the Breeze model includes a 48V 16Ah Lithium-ion battery, a 500W brushless gear motor, and a total payload capacity of 300 lbs. It features a quick charger and a mechanical brake system as well.

In addition to these models, Whizz offers refurbished e-bikes for delivery riders. These bikes are thoroughly checked and restored, guaranteeing reliable performance with a meticulous 30-point checklist, all at a fraction of the cost.

Booking and Reservation Process

Joco simplifies the booking and reservation process through their user-friendly app:

• Download the App: Start by downloading the Joco app from the iOS or Android app store and follow the registration instructions.
• Find a Bike: Use the app's map feature to locate a nearby Joco bike.
• Purchase a Pass: Click on "Buy a Pass" in the menu section of the app to choose a suitable pass.
• Unlock a Bike: You can unlock a bike in two ways:

Option 1: Scan the QR code on the bike using the app and press unlock.

Option 2: Select the docking station pin in the app, choose a bike from the list, and unlock it when ready to go.

Whizz Bike Rentals

Whizz keeps the process straightforward:

• Reserve an e-bike on their website or the Whizz app, which is free to download.
• Follow the instructions to subscribe.
• Come to their office to test drive or pick up your e-bike once subscribed.
• Start earning.

Locations and Availability

Joco Bike Rentals

Joco boasts a robust network with 50+ locations throughout New York City, ensuring accessibility for couriers across the metropolitan area. Their wide coverage area makes it convenient for couriers to find a Joco bike nearby, reducing downtime between deliveries.

Whizz Bike Rentals

You can test-ride Whizz e-bikes for free at any of their Manhattan and Brooklyn locations. They emphasize ease of access with locations that are strategically placed to cater to delivery riders.

User Experience and Reviews

Joco Bike Rentals

Joco has garnered attention and feedback from many users in the delivery industry.

Positive feedback about Joco:

• Delivery riders appreciate the convenience of their app-based system and the electric boost that their bikes provide.
• While individual experiences may vary, Joco's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner air resonates with many users.
• Wheels are almost impossible to mess up so you don’t have to worry about changing tires.
• The battery is easy to charge.

Negative feedback about Joco:

• Joco bikes only last for about 30 miles per charge
• As mentioned, most have poor shock absorption on the front fork or none at all, which leads to poor battery performance, lower back issues for the drivers, and the destruction of essential components such as the battery itself.

Whizz Bike Rentals

Whizz has received a lot of positive feedback from delivery riders, emphasizing how comfortable and easy to use their bikes are.

Positive feedback about Whizz:

• Rental delivery drivers like the fact that you can do 50 to 60 miles on a single charge.
• Whizz is known for excellent service and wonderful staff.
• If your bike breaks, Whizz will fix it for you within 30 minutes.

Negative feedback about Whizz:

• Some of the bikes are dented.

The Verdict

As the landscape of last-mile delivery continues to evolve, both Whizz and Joco stand out as viable options. While Joco's comprehensive network and commitment to sustainability make it an attractive choice, Whizz's straightforward subscription model and flexible plans provide a compelling alternative.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences as a delivery courier. We encourage you to carefully consider the pricing, bike selection, and user experience offered by each service.

If you want a hassle-free experience, great value for money, and the opportunity to earn with ease, then Whizz is the way to go. Take the first step towards an efficient and rewarding delivery experience by getting a Whizz subscription today