Austin BCycle is offering free three-day passes during the shelter in place order. Photo courtesy Austin BCycle

Austin BCycle, that fleet of sturdy, bright red and white bikes with big metal baskets, will continue to roll through the city during the current shelter in place order.

The city of Austin has deemed the bike-share system essential, and is providing anyone who needs to take an essential trip with free three-day passes. Just sign up online and use the code ATX512.

Riding one takes some getting used to — they’re heavy, weighing in at 40 pounds, and feel a little wobbly at first. But most folks settle in after pedaling a block or two. (Read about my experience at https://www.statesman.com/article/20140106/NEWS/301069749. Both regular and electric-assist bicycles are available.

The bikes are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Austin BCycle has regular and electric assist bikes. Photo courtesy Austin BCycle

Staff are disinfecting bikes and stations before and after every interaction.

The system launched in Austin in December 2013. Currently, 75 BCycle stations operate around downtown Austin, everywhere from Barton Springs Pool to Auditorium Shores, South Congress, the Texas State Capitol and more.

Annual memberships cost $86.60, or you can swipe a credit card to pay-as-you-ride ($1 to unlock, then 23 cents per minute. Weekender, monthly or unlimited 60-minute trip passes are also available online.

Go to Austin.bcycle.com for details.

Austin BCycle has 75 stations in downtown Austin. Photo courtesy Austin BCycle