I wonder if anyone has had experience in renting bikes while in Europe. Can you advise us on how your experience was, the average cost, do they supply helmets and advice on routes? Thanks!
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
I have rented bicycles 4 times, in France and the Netherlands. The experience, and the quality of bicycle, varied.
In most cases, the rental shop folks were pleased to be asked about itineraries, and offered first-rate advice. Bring a map and they will mark it up for you.
Most shops were willing to rent anything you need, from helmets to panniers. Most provided a lock and a tool kit gratis.
The best rental bikes, and the most common, are called VTTs in France, for Velos Toutes Terraine. These are like beefed-up hybrids, with lots of gears and upright handlebars. They are great for just about any kind of terrain, including cobblestones and unpaved tow paths.
I had a less satisfying experience once renting an older bike with either 3 or 1 speed, but these can be OK.
Much harder to find are road bikes, with dropped handlebars. These are faster, and more comfortable for longer distances, but the VTTs are very good.
In my opinion it is worth taking the time to locate a rental shop or shops in the areas you like, and corresponding by email or even calling them to learn what they offer.
Posted by
OP
Scottsdale, AZ, United States
3 posts
Thanks for your quick reply. The hybrids sound perfect. Would I be able to research bike shops in certain locations on google?
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
Yes, many rental shops have web sites.
Guidebooks are another source of information about rentals, and you can also try web forums like this one.
(It helps to be as specific as possible about your requirements and also where you are going.)
Good luck!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23343 posts
Our experience was similar as previously posted, We were just in Holland and surrounding the area, The rental equipment is marginal at best If you are an experienced cyclists. Given the street/road conditions and surfaces a road bike with narrow tire is not a good choice. You really need the fatter, softer tires. Helmets are rare, Rough cost would be about 10 to 15 E per day. Some will offer insurance. Take it. Bike thefts are high.
Posted by
OP
Scottsdale, AZ, United States
3 posts
Hmm, bike thefts. I hadn't thought of that. We have Bike Fridays that fold up in a suitcase. We are trying to decide if they are worth lugging all over Europe or whether it would be smarter to just rent.
Thanks for your reply!
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
Hard-core cyclists bring their own ("Why would you want to ride a strange saddle?" they ask, and ride from the airport), but this is not trivial, even for a foldie.
If you can locate the machines you want before you go, I recommend renting. It's practically worth it for the itinerary advice alone.
Bring your helmet (or saddle) if you like. Good luck!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23343 posts
We also have NWT BFs. Just make sure your hotel has inside storage. Some of the hotels we have used do not have enough room for the bikes and us. Invest in heavy locks and remove all quick releases and you will be find. Also depends a little bit on where you are going. Big cities are bigger problem thaan country side.