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View Full Version : Chcago / Illinois bike rental

cc_rider
06-12-07, 01:47 PM
We will be flying to Chicago in mid August. My wife is not normally a bicycle rider, but I'm thinking about renting a tandem and riding the Lakeshore with her. She seems open to the idea.
Does anyone have a recommendation for bike rental places? I've heard of Bike-and-Roll (we have them in DC) Are they ok to rent from?

Later in the trip I'll be renting and doing a solo ride on the I&M canal trail, or maybe some of the roads around Starved Rock.
Are there any bike rental places around there, other then Mix'sTrading Post in Utica? I'd like to use a place that takes better care of their equipment (last time I had a breakdown 12 miles out) but I'll bring tools if I have to.
nvr
06-12-07, 02:14 PM
http://www.bikechicago.com/rentals/

I've rented once from the Navy Pier location, they're just inside the gates. I just got the bike car thing for me and the kids, but they DO have tandems available. The lakefront is nice, but somewhat crowded at times. You can pick up maps there and do your own tour, or sign up for an organized tour. I'm not sure if they supply a multi tool, patch kit, and pump so you might want to call ahead of time, or just bring your own. Sorry I can't help with the I&M canal trail. Enjoy your trip.
cc_rider
06-12-07, 02:20 PM
Thanks. We'll be in Chicago mid-week, so I expect the Lakeshore paths to be less crowded.
Mayonnaise
06-13-07, 09:03 AM
take the lakeshore path south, it's the best way to avoid the crowds. Go to 55th street and take a small tour of Hyde Park and the University of Chicago. You can find a nice place for lunch before heading home.
Kenal0
06-13-07, 01:03 PM
Thanks. We'll be in Chicago mid-week, so I expect the Lakeshore paths to be less crowded.
This will be the case although any nice day will have walking, running, biking, roller blading traffic. Stay south of the Oak Street Beach and you will have less traffic. Between Oak Street and Fullerton is the worst.
I go down there a few times a week to run and once a week to bike during the week and it is quite an adventure. A little blowing sand adds to the fun as well.
Kenal0