Not sure if you’re ready to plunge in as a cyclist in Austin. You’re in luck, because plenty of stores and shops in the Austin area offer bike rentals and services that will help you test the water. Just go in, check out the selection of bikes and pick on you think you might like. Then, hit one of Austin’s popular trails for a test drive.
Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop
This store is owned by
Lance Armstrong, so if you’re one of his many fans, you have to stop in. In addition to offering a huge line of bikes for everyone from serious racers to commuters, the shop also is dedicated to encouraging beginning bikers. Road, mountain, children’s and city bikes are available for rent starting at $20 for four hours and $30 for 24 hours. If you’re commuting to work, you can also stop in for a shower, which will cost you $1, stow your stuff for free in a locker, sign up for a free clinic or even grab a cup of coffee at the on-site Juan Pelota Café. What more could you ask for?
Bicycle Sport Shop
With three convenient Austin locations, Bicycle Sport Shop is a good bet if you need to rent a bike or brush up on some basic biking skills. Rentals are all facilitated at the Lamar location – just call to reserve or book online. Rental prices start around $22 for a half-day rental and $34 for a 24-hour rental and go up depending on the make and model of the bike. There’s also an additional 15 percent discount when you book certain models on a weekday. Free bike maintenance courses are also offered.Jack & Adam’s Bicycles
The
Zilker Park area of Austin – near where Jack & Adam’s Bicycles is located – is a must-see part of Austin, so why not rent a bike while you’re there to help you get around? More than just a shop, Jack & Adam’s is dedicated to creating a community for local bikers. You can rent a variety of bikes here starting at $7 an hour or $35 for the day. You can also participate in free weekly rides, workouts, clinics and more.
Freewheeling Bicycles
With its location close to the
University of Texas campus, you’d expect this bike shop to offer quick, affordable service. And it does. While they don’t offer rentals, you can come here to find a wide variety of bikes and parts, as well as a free Sunday morning bicycle ride hosted by the Violet Crown Sports Association. The website is also full of interesting information sure to be of use to beginning riders.
Yellow Bike Project
The Yellow Bike Project, which has been operating in Austin since 1997, is a volunteer-run shop where members of the community can visit to learn how to fix their bike from experienced cyclists. No fee is required, although those who use the shop are asked to volunteer some of their own time to further the project’s mission. The shop also houses a variety of donated parts, meaning that if your bike is broken and you need something in particular, this is a good place to get it – for a discounted, negotiable price. New parts are also available. After you’ve volunteered a certain amount of time and learned the basics of bicycle repair, you’re eligible to build your own bike for personal use. Pretty cool, huh?
