In just over 2-hours I became what I am certain is Toronto’s Bike Share program’s shortest-term annual member. Such was the recent frustration I experienced in becoming a member of this essential service on a day I most needed to use it.

My ordeal began with my attempt to sign up using my iPhone. After several failed attempts I noticed a message advising that signing up on smart phones is often challenging and that I should use a computer (or tablet) instead.

Really?

Undaunted, I eventually succeeded in signing up on my desktop – though it took three attempts to accept my application.

Missing the vague fine print on the website, I was surprised to learn that my membership activation had to wait until I received a key in the mail.

Huh?

Again undaunted, I decided it was still worth my while to sign up for a one-day membership as I needed to use the service immediately. But my closest Bike Share dock had a touch screen that could barely detect my fingers as I was asked to enter my phone number and postal code etc. It took me five minutes to enter (and re-enter) everything – only to reject me.

Late, I took a cab instead to get to my haircut. Now well coifed – and on my second attempt at a different dock – my credit card was rejected. In calling customer service, I was informed that because I signed up for an annual membership that day, the same card could not be used again for a day membership.

You’re kidding?

As a service that has been in Toronto since 2011 and operated by a global technology company boasting it is the “global leader in bike share,” I expected a much better inaugural experience.

Taking my frustrations to Twitter, my story attracted a number of Bike Share advocates imploring that I be more patient (and less critical). But I take the view that if we are going to ask Torontonians to do the right thing, we need to be more demanding of the systems that we are attracting them to.

For example, this week I will certainly be one of the first commuters to use the new Bloor Street bike lane pilot project – on my own bike. Can’t wait. But I fear that when I get to such destinations as Bay Street or Yonge, I will have nowhere to lock it. The disconnect between the expansion of bike lanes and that of bike parking is simply inexcusable.

Indeed, it’s hard to do the right thing. I still can’t even use my Presto card at my home subway stop.

But Presto and Bike Share have an opportunity to win me over yet.

Earlier this summer, in announcing the expansion of Bike Share, Metrolinx teased us with 50% off an annual Bike Share membership.  Let’s overlook that six week’s later this simple deal has yet to be made available. When it does I will muster all my patience and try again.

I do want to be a fan.