Affordable, fun and a great workout, cycling is an ideal method for seeing the sights of Vancouver, where state-of-the-art bike paths and spectacular Seawall views abound. And for those who don’t own a bike – or who couldn’t fit one in their suitcase – these rental shops loan out two-wheelers that are well oiled, affordable and ready for your next adventure. [Photo credit: iStock.com/ Todor Tsvetkov]
With shops in two spectacular locations – the edge of the Seawall in Yaletown and on Fir Street close to the entrance to Granville Island – Reckless Bikes offers close proximity to some of the most scenic rides in Vancouver, if not in the entire world. Our tip? Take off from one location, and return to the other, discovering False Creek, Stanley Park, Chinatown, Gastown and more neighbourhoods along the way.
Located at the entrance to Stanley Park, this beloved bike rental shop has offered group and single bike rentals to tourists and locals since 1988, which means staff are highly educated and knowledgeable when it comes to anything on two wheels. From cross-country to tricycles and tandem bikes, they’ve got wheels to suit any type of rider, no matter age or experience level.
In addition to offering the latest (and greatest) in bike technology, English Bay Bike Rentals is a hub for knowledge about Vancouver’s vast network of bike paths. Whether you’d like to explore Stanley Park, the West End or the University of British Columbia, these savvy cycle junkies will design a route that suits your energy and fitness levels, making sure to point out must-see landmarks, viewpoints and pit stops along the route.
There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to this tiny bike rental shop on Denman, where cyclists of all abilities can rent a wide range of bikes – including mountain bikes and light-as-a-feather road bikes – for affordable prices. The relaxed rental policy allows you to return your bikes at any point during the day – even if it’s way beyond your agreed-upon time – so you can feel free to get lost while leisurely exploring Vancouver’s scenic cycle paths.
Located on Denman Street next to Stanley Park, Yes Cycle gets bonus points for being Vancouver’s only bike provider to offer free parking while you ride (crucial in the downtown core) plus complimentary helmets. Also free of charge, sturdy locks ensure you can park your wheels to take a dip, grab a bite to eat, or go for a stroll at any point during your ride.
More than simply a bike rental spot, Cycle City also offers daily, guided bike tours, which take guests through Vancouver’s most scenic neighbourhoods such as Chinatown, the downtown core, and South Granville. Creative, engaging guides stop along the way to share iconic stories of the city’s landmarks, as well as mini-lessons in ecology, culture and history.
This small, laid-back shop is arguably the city’s most affordable bike rental solution, with rates that include $7 per hour, $38 per full day, and weekly rates of just $120. And the best part? If you find a better rate somewhere else (doubtful) you’ll receive a 5-percent discount off any trip through Vancouver on one of their designer bikes.