Touring - Bike Friendly B & B - What Would you Offer?

Two friends of mine are planning on opening a B & B on PA's Bike Route L, in Oley Township, in the next year, and asked me what they should offer to bike tourists who want to be guests. (The owners are not cyclists.) My suggestions were:

- secure bike storage in the garage.
- outdoor hose and rags for cleaning off the bike.
- maps of the L and nearby S bike routes.
- information on attractions nearby, including locations of nearby bike shops.
- use of a computer so they could check email, update journals, etc.
- some simple bike tools, lube, etc.

Anything else they could add to draw bike touring, or bike riding, guests?

I think they should allow bike access inside the house.

Breakfast! One that is attuned to the needs and appetites of touring cyclists.

Undercover hanging space for airing sleeping bags and tents.

A good washing machine and dryer.

An open mind on other nationalities, creed, sexual orientation and lifestyle.

I seem to recall there were a few places in New Zealand (South Island) that offered accommodation exclusively for cyclists.

But really, I've found all the things listed in this thread in places I've stayed before that *didn't* claim to be especially for cyclists. I remember one motel in Glen Innes in NSW actually thought I was doing them a *favour* by offering to store my bike inside my room. Another B & B I stayed at in Hobart before long distance event were quite happy for me to store the bike in my room as well.

I wouldn't expect them to allow bikes in the rooms, but inside the garage is a must. Perhaps have a big cable locked into a bolt in the floor or wall stud in there to ease people's minds even further.

I think accepting UPS shipments for clients would be good so that folks could order/ship some supplies ahead of time.

Also, I don't know anything about PA's Bike Route L, but storing shipping boxes for folks that plan on starting and finishing from there would be good. Also, maybe shuttle service to/from airports or Amtrak stations?

Regarding bikes in the room or in a secure location, it seems like saying a location is secure is just waiting for it not to be secure. It's natural that many people will end up having access to the area and the minute something goes missing, the owners of the BB are going to get an earful. If it were me being the owners of the BB, I would ask cyclists to put bikes in their rooms and have a place to clean them as well. When I mountain biked in Moab, all the motels had places to clean bikes and they all required a small deposit as well.

I wouldn't provide supplies or tools (too hard to keep in stock), but I would try to keep some rags available in the cleaning area so the room towels don't get used 'by accident.'

Germany has an entire system of Bed and Bike hotels/motels that have to meet specific requirements in order to qualify for the 'bett+bike' designation. Some good info here (in English!):
http://www.bettundbike.de/68_1

I think one thing that should have, if they are billing themselves as bike B&B, is very good knowledge of the local roads that are good for cycling (other then the main route). While I've never stayed at a "bike B&B", I have stayed at campgrounds that cater to motorcycles. and the owners had extensive knowledge of all the good local riding roads. I'd think this would be even more important/desirable for a bicyclist traveling in an area new to them.

I think one thing that should have, if they are billing themselves as bike B&B, is very good knowledge of the local roads that are good for cycling (other then the main route). While I've never stayed at a "bike B&B", I have stayed at campgrounds that cater to motorcycles. and the owners had extensive knowledge of all the good local riding roads. I'd think this would be even more important/desirable for a bicyclist traveling in an area new to them.

Let me clarify. While I mentioned they want to be bike friendly, they are NOT exclusively catering to cyclists.

Oley Township is a historic district to the north of Reading, Pennsylvania. Most of the township is farmland and historic buildings on rolling countryside. The cycling is wonderful.

The suggestion of knowledge of the local roads is a good one. I can prepare some cue sheets for rides of varying length hitting the attractions - the covered bridges, the churches, other historic buildings. While the owners know the area, they are not cyclists, so giving bike friendly directions will be a stretch for them.

I suggest a workstand.

+1 on using the Bett und Bike guidelines from Germany's bike federation as a start.

I'd use that as a good starting point. I don't think allowing bikes in rooms is necessary. But a secure storage facility is, undoubtedly. In that area, have a bike workstand available (one that permanently attaches to a workbench is probably best). Tools would be nice, but are likely to quickly vanish by accident or on purpose, unless they are cabled to the bench or something. Or, have a small toolbox with them inside the house, available upon request, to be checked in/out.

I can prepare some cue sheets for rides of varying length hitting the attractions - the covered bridges, the churches, other historic buildings. While the owners know the area, they are not cyclists, so giving bike friendly directions will be a stretch for them.

That's exactly it! I know cyclist would really appreciate and benefit from your knowledge of good local rides.

I think one thing that should have, if they are billing themselves as bike B&B, is very good knowledge of the local roads that are good for cycling (other then the main route). While I've never stayed at a "bike B&B", I have stayed at campgrounds that cater to motorcycles. and the owners had extensive knowledge of all the good local riding roads. I'd think this would be even more important/desirable for a bicyclist traveling in an area new to them.Good idea, and if the owners are not up to snuff on what makes a good bike route, they might partner up with a local bike shop. Shops often have suggestions on routes and they might see a good opportunity to print up some rides starting at the BB on which they could also market their local shop to the bike tourers. That could be a good relationship for everyone involved.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3589/3416982442_676e3b6756_b.jpg

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Some photos from one of my Oley rides.

They might want to contact the Berks Bike Club for ride idea.

That's exactly it! I know cyclist would really appreciate and benefit from your knowledge of good local rides.

A Bike Forums poster runs what he calls the "Oley Cycling Group", but it only holds one or two rides a year. He has 10, 17, and 34 mile routes starting from different locations in the township. I can use his cue sheets, and roll some of my own.

Free Wi-Fi would be nice, some people travel with a netbook/laptop/iPad. A workstand is expensive and would get abused, but the "Y" shaped storage/repair stands like this: http://www.amazon.com/Sunlite-Bottom-Bracket-Bicycle-Display/dp/B000C17HJ4 are nice. These are also a good way to keep bicycles upright when they're being stored, instead of leaning them against the wall.

I would favor a secure room to put bikes and luggage (camping gear, etc.) in over dragging bikes into a hotel room. I wouldn't feel too good about scuffing up someone's walls or tracking dirt onto their carpet. A storage room would also be more appropriate for cleaning and repairing bikes.

Great pix's Historian! Makes me want to plan a trip there with the wife for some nice day trip riding. So what's the name of the B&B? When do they plan on opening it?

Great pix's Historian! Makes me want to plan a trip there with the wife for some nice day trip riding. So what's the name of the B&B? When do they plan on opening it?

No name yet, and they plan on opening in 2012.

I'll second the workstand and add a decent floor pump.

To be within walking distance to a town, where one can do a little shopping, would be a big plus.

Access to a stream or pond where one can take a dip, would be really nice. If that's a possibility, then maybe also a canoe?

Or, how about a shelf of old paperback novels where you can trade in the one you already finished... and a hammock in which to get started on the next one?

Here is my list...

- Secure storage space in garage or room is perfect for most bikers with posts or something to lock their bikes. They should have an area for exclusively for cyclists on their website so they know in advance the rules (i.e. no bikes allowed in the rooms.) I know a lot of cyclists insist in bringing their bicyles to their rooms (we even see it here) which may create an uncomfortable situation from the get-go.

- For breakfast, a well-designed menu that will incorportate both cyclists/hikers and non-cyclists.

- Garden hose, rags, chain degreaser and lube - These don't cost much, last for a longtime and it's a great touch for a bicycle-friendly place. Also a hand degreaser would be nice so they can wash their hands after working on their bikes.

The rest are optional but would be nice additions for products & services:

- Workstand - The good ones are about $200

- Inexpensive Basic Bicycle Tool Box ($50 - $80) - Tools are a little harder to keep track but it's not very difficult to manage either... Check it out from front office and bring it back with all the tools given to you. Small tools should be kept separately.

- Cyclists with broken bikes sometimes barely make it to a campsite or hotel - If nearest bike shop is not within walking distance, having a mini van or SUV would be great to take cyclists to the bike shop (for a fee!). A nice 2-bike rack for the van or SUV should be considered.

Menus from nearby restaurants, especially ones that will deliver.

I think the main marketing opportunity is in developing a multi-night package where people come and do a few mapped day rides. Much more likely to get bikers that way than relying on one-nighters riding the PA bike route. Offer on-call sag support in case of breakdowns or bad weather (a small minivan and basic trailer would facilitate this). Marketing could include overnight giveaways to big bike clubs in the Philadelphia, NYC, Wilmington, Baltimore, and Harrisburg areas. Lots of people looking for good, nearby getaways that include a nice B&B and good riding. Gotta invest in building out the area as a biking destination, though, along the lines of Vermont, the NY Finger Lakes area, etc.

As a life-long Philadellphian, the area doesn't immediate spring to mind.

To be within walking distance to a town, where one can do a little shopping, would be a big plus.

Access to a stream or pond where one can take a dip, would be really nice. If that's a possibility, then maybe also a canoe?

Or, how about a shelf of old paperback novels where you can trade in the one you already finished... and a hammock in which to get started on the next one?

There is a stream on the property, I understand.

There is no town in walking distance. The township had itself declared a historic district to keep out development. (They wanted to avoid becoming an Amish Disneyland like Lancaster County.) However, PA's sixth largest city, Reading, is about ten or so miles away, on the other side of Mount Penn. Here's the city's most famous landmark, the Pagoda, and the city itself from the Fire Tower atop Mount Penn.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/hs021.snc6/165152_1664265698976_1607271639_1509588_917380_n.jpg

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Having consumables on hand would be nice. Stuff like AA/AAA batteries, fresh fruit, sugary snacks and drinks. Basically the stuff they would otherwise have to stop at a gas station for the next morning.

I would favor a secure room to put bikes and luggage (camping gear, etc.) in over dragging bikes into a hotel room. I wouldn't feel too good about scuffing up someone's walls or tracking dirt onto their carpet. A storage room would also be more appropriate for cleaning and repairing bikes.

That is what the "old" HI Hostel in Seattle had. They built fenced in "pens" for bicycles. The key, which was attached to a large chainring, was kept behind the desk and had to be signed out.

The idea for the book swap is an excellent one. I have stayed in a couple B&Bs that have had them. And who doesn't love a hammock? If they are miles, away from commercial establishments, some type consumables would seem important.

As The Historain explains, the area is nice for riding. I have a friend who lives and rides out that way. Oley Township really has done a great job of keeping out development.

my god you guy's expect a lot, i would imagine these people are just trying to make a living.
so basically all i would want is maybe a kettle in my room that i could make a cup of tea/coffee somewhere safe to put my bike .

the ability to receive the shipped boxed bike and or like S&S cases, for the traveler,
and room to assemble the bike , , maybe even leave cases to reverse the disassembly..

to use public transportation , to start and end their trip , to rail station or airport.

Repeat: location (3x)

my god you guy's expect a lot, i would imagine these people are just trying to make a living.
so basically all i would want is maybe a kettle in my room that i could make a cup of tea/coffee somewhere safe to put my bike .

Well, they aren't getting shuttle service to the nearest airports (Philadelphia International and Lehigh Valley) or Amtrak (Paoli). Too far a drive.

I'll pass on the best suggestions from this thread.

As far as riding goes, Oley isn't that far from the Thun segment of the Schuylkill River Trail. It's possible to ride to the trail, if you don't mind crossing a highway or two. And as I mentioned PA Bike Route L passes through.

I think the B & B is going to be marketed towards people who want to stay in the area, and perhaps sight-see in Reading or shop the outlets. But cyclists spend money too......

I'm part of a chain of 'bike friendly B&Bs'.

It's called Warmshowers. www.warmshowers.org

Reading through the suggestions it struck me that I offer most already. Some of the ones I don't are 'the kettle in the bedroom' and 'a pond out the back with a canoe'.

We don't charge but have been known to accept the odd bottle of wine.

The only condition for staying is a willingness to pass on the service to some other touring cyclist.

my god you guy's expect a lot, i would imagine these people are just trying to make a living.
Part of that making a living is asking their friend what he and other bicycle tourers would find appealing in a B&B so they can improve their business. I think most of the suggestions have been fairly reasonable, inexpensive, and would be beneficial for everyone involved.

I haven't toured by bicycle yet, but stayed at the this hotel when they were open on an overnight trip. When they were open, they catered to bicyclists. Some of the features we liked when we stayed there that haven't already been mentioned were the bike washing station and showers (for people) downstairs in the bike shop. Being able to clean up after riding made for a nicer ride home and didn't require arranging for a later checkout time.
http://www.earthridercycling.com/Home_Page.html

I'd have an undercover bike rack and a decent pump cyclists can use. Other facilities can be integrated into those for non-cyclists. Things like route maps can be provided alongside other tourist information. The idea of a vending machine is a good one and would probably see use by non-cyclists as well. Likewise, a room for luggage storage would also get used by hikers.

Besides the B&B rooms, offering a place to tent-camp for less money, but with access to a shower/laundry/breakfast would pull me in.

the problem with all these brilliant suggestions the owners of the B/B might never get rid of you guy's all the things a cyclist needs ,why the hell would you leave a place like that.
Only joking

I'd say secure bike storage is a must. If they've got more than a small number of bedrooms then "secure" becomes very difficult to implement because so many people need access to it. Unless they want to use the kind of linoleum that can be hosed down regularly they probably won't want people carrying bikes that could be filthy through the house. For myself if the only facility a B&B offered was a post to lock the bike to and a sign warning me that no liability was accepted I wouldn't book it.

Extensive toolkits might be nice but cost money and if they aren't going to be aiming exclusively at the cyclist market seems excessive (especially if they aren't cyclists themselves). Some basic tools and a pump would be a nice touch, as would a range of basic consumables available to buy (as long as prices weren't outrageous!). If they aren't cyclists and aren't aiming exclusively at cyclists I'd reckon that would probably mean little more than a couple of choices of oil, the most popular types of spare inner tube, and the kind of energy snacks that would appeal to anyone doing outdoorsy stuff.

It might be nice for their guests to have a place on hand that had a full workstand and a full range of spare parts for any conceivable bike but there does come a point at which they become a bike shop rather than a B&B. On top of that it's often better to not have a facility than to have something that doesn't work. If they've advertised themselves as "having a full range of bike tools" and then someone finds they don't have quite the right bottom bracket removal tool it counts against them; if they don't specifically advertise having tools available but are willing to lend a wrench or an Allen key it counts for them. It also gives a little protection from the kind of visitors who might figure that if they have a full range of tools then they've got a full range of Things Worth Stealing and who turn up on old knackered bikes with little in mind except "borrowing" the most expensive tools they can find.

If there is a local bike shop, perhaps they could make some arrangement with the bike shop to provide repair/maintenance services? If people are likely to arrive late the bike mechanics may charge a premium but I'm sure a lot of people would rather pay it and get their bike fixed now rather than have to get to the bike shop in the morning and lose cycling time.

Any B&B, regardless of their target market, ought to have details of local attractions. The attractions themselves will probably be more than willing to provide leaflets. Maps of the local area would be good - perhaps a laminated copy for people to use within the B&B with copies available for sale.

Use of a computer would always be a plus, along with wifi access so people can use their own laptop/smartphone/whatever if they prefer.

Obviously a map of honey holes and a good idea what's hatching at the moment. Nothing else needed.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3543/3417074290_7af85184c3_b.jpg

How about a good floor pump?

Laundry

Relatively large indoor floor space in a garage for working on the bike. If I were running the joint I would not provide any tools, except *maybe* a floor pump.

Perhaps pit-stop shopping of sorts with batteries, sunscreen, and maybe some very basic, universal, and small bike parts (700c tubes, spokes, lube) might be a nice way to make a profit and offer convenience; I'd gladly pay a $5 markup on a replacement tube or patch kit instead of fretting over it or going out of my way to a bike shop. The investment would not need to be particularly large to be helpful.

Willingness to hold items received through the mail (ie be a "general delivery" post) would be amazing also, since post office hours can sometimes impose annoying scheduling constraints.

Competitive pricing for those who only desire a safe place to camp for the night would also be great. A simple outdoor shower, or even a lender sunshower, with a little bit of privacy, a safe place to store stuff, and a piece of ground to camp on would suffice. I can't be alone when I say the main reason I get motel rooms is so I can stow all my stuff, maybe stroll around unencumbered, and retire my vigilance for a little while; a b&b could offer this at a much lower price and with greater security than paranoid chain outfits that will only give you all-or-nothing. Of course, this depends on the size of the lot.

I'll mention camping to the owners. I've never been to the property, but I understand it's two buildings, a main house and a carriage house. There should be some place tents could be pitched without disturbing the look of the property from the front, or spoiling the view from the guest rooms.

I stayed at two cycling hostels in New Zealand. The first was basically a small separate house on the property with a kitchen, a common room, some bedrooms, and a bathroom. This was a great setup. The more independent types could pitch a tent outside but have access to shared facilities inside. The owner also had a shed with bike and food supplies that he sold.

The other was more like what you'd expect from a warmshowers host, although you had to pay.

Both were great. The best part about both was access to a kitchen.

If they have the space a sitting room with a few sofas and a table is always nice (bike-orientated or not). It's useful for groups to meet or people travelling alone to sit around in for company. A shelf of books to trade is always useful (and hardly costs anything, they just need a few old books to start it off), and it's nice if there are a few board games and a couple of packs of cards for people to use aswell.

Obviously a map of honey holes and a good idea what's hatching at the moment. Nothing else needed.


I've seen you fish, I think you'd need more then that ;-) Still waiting on that fish dinner!

If your friends follow all the below listed requirements they can get listed on the Bed and Bike America website.
http://www.bedandbikeamerica.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=62&Itemid=115

Otherwise, it is a good list of suggestions:

· Minimum requirements:

1.Cyclists may stay for one night only if they wish.
2.Lockable room for storage of cycles overnight (on ground level if possible) or permiision to store the bikes in the room.
3.Drying area for clothing and equipment (e.g. laundry, cellar or drying room) or a near laundromat.
4.Provision of cyclists' breakfast: substantial meal (e.g. fruit and wholemeal products).
5.Display or provision of cycle touring maps of the region, also bus and train timetables.
6.Set of repair equipment with the most important tools.
7.Address, opening times and telephone number of the nearest cycle repair shop for major repairs.

Further recommendations:

1.For those, who want to start or finish their trip, information should be provided on environment-friendly access by bus or train.
2.Transportation of guests if needed.
3.Provision of maps and descriptions of local and regional cycling routes.
4.Own stock of good-quality cycles for hire.
5.Transport service of luggage from the last or to the next accommodation.
6.Reservation service for the next night in a bicycle friendly accommodation.
7.Supply of important spare parts, if necessary by arrangement with the nearest repair shop.
8.List of other cycle-friendly establishments in the region.
9.Lunch pack to take away.
10.Guest book containing experiences of cycle-tourists in the region.

· List of criteria for cycle-friendly camp-sites

1.Separated area for cyclists and other not-motorized guests.
2.Lawn -surface, flat and horizontal if possible.
3.Cycle-shed or cycle-stand within view of the tent.
4.Drying facilities for clothing and equipment (e.g. laundry, cellar or drying room.)
5.No charge for the bicycle.
6.Display or provision of cycle touring maps of the region, also bus and train timetables.
7.Set of repair equipment with the most important tools.
8.Address, opening times and telephone number of the nearest cycle repair shop for major repairs

Further recommendations:

1.Lockable room for cycles and luggage.
2.Sitting-area with tables and shed if possible.
3.Cooking facilities.
4.Shopping facilities
5.Lit passages to the tent-area.
6.Supply of important spare parts, if necessary by arrangement with the nearest repair shop.
7.Information on cycle-friendly camp-sites in the region.
8.Renting of tents, caravans or log cabins.
9.Own stock of good-quality cycles for hire.
10.Provision of maps and descriptions of local and regional cycling routes.

I have stayed at many B+Bs while on tour, and can't remember a single problem. Most have garages or sheds; when there wasn't, they had weather-protected places to lock up outside. Without exception, the owners of the B+Bs I have stayed at had extensive knowledge of local roads and nearby stores, restaurants, and attractions.

I've seen you fish, I think you'd need more then that ;-) Still waiting on that fish dinner!

There's always a wise guy :)

But seriously, do many of you wish they would powder your rear end as well. This is likely to be a very small percentage of their business unless this is an extremely well traveled and bike specific route. Keep the list as small and realistic as possible for the poor chaps just starting out. They're not likely going to spend $200 on a bike stand that will rarely will get used.

Wow that sounds like a great area to visit. I'm a fan of B&B's that put on a good breakfast. I wish more would be clear about the tipping though. I've read that if you're served by the owners you shouldn't tip but should otherwise unless they have posted not to, but I always feel bad not tipping.

There's always a wise guy :)

But seriously, do many of you wish they would powder your rear end as well. This is likely to be a very small percentage of their business unless this is an extremely well traveled and bike specific route. Keep the list as small and realistic as possible for the poor chaps just starting out. They're not likely going to spend $200 on a bike stand that will rarely will get used.

Many of the suggestions, however, are cheap, and apply to other than cyclists. Maps, for instance.

The L route runs north and south, and isn't very heavily traveled.

But seriously, do many of you wish they would powder your rear end as well. This is likely to be a very small percentage of their business unless this is an extremely well traveled and bike specific route. Keep the list as small and realistic as possible for the poor chaps just starting out. They're not likely going to spend $200 on a bike stand that will rarely will get used.

I was thinking along the same lines, but then thought of the opportunities. The new owner could possibly market to cycling clubs/groups, maybe identifying times when business is light for normal travelers but fine for cycling. The distinctions could work in their favor. Encouraging hub and spoke riding vs tourers passing through would probably be more profitable for them.

They should probably talk to other B&B owners to see whether they keep cyclists away, or try to attract them. If I was pulling up in a Mercedes, I don't know if I would want to share accommodations with greasy hands, sweaty lycra, and a lot of loud talk about environmentally sensitive airport donkey cart services.

I think a pump makes sense. Not having a pump is like not having a screw driver or a hammer. I make bike frames, and I don't even own a repair stand. That's over the top.

Access to safe bike storage is the ideal. Three things there 1) bike is safe; 2) I have access to it 24/7 (or the same time period one would use a car), like if I need to go shopping. If I had a car I wouldn't loose it's use over the period I was there for; 3) Nobody else has access. That's why I would be looking for a strip motel with ground level access, not a B&B. A cabin is also good.

If I was running a B&B I wouldn't offer camping. I'm sure that would work somewhere... The thing about a B&B is that there is less privacy for guests, it is as though they are coming into your home as guests. There has to be a comfort level. Most of the B&Bs I see in Canada, are in Antique laden older homes. It would be cool if there were some bike bunking B&Bs with a frame building course...

I was thinking along the same lines, but then thought of the opportunities. The new owner could possibly market to cycling clubs/groups, maybe identifying times when business is light for normal travelers but fine for cycling. The distinctions could work in their favor. Encouraging hub and spoke riding vs tourers passing through would probably be more profitable for them.

I agree with encouraging cyclists but if the B&B owners start down the route of specific tools, where does it stop?

A bike stand is of limited use without the tools to do the kind of work that you'd need the bike on the stand in the first place. Should the B&B owners be expected to provide cassette removal tools, torque wrenches, spare chainrings, crank pullers, headset tools, dropout alignment tools etc?

It's one thing to offer a range of basic tools and fairly generic parts that might be of interest to any cyclist - inner tubes, patch kits, oils, maybe chain links. Much beyond that and the focus ends up being a bike repair shop where you can sleep overnight if you want to.

Offer me a secure place to keep the bike, a warm hospitable enviroment, and an excellent knowledge of the area as it pertains to cyclists (invaluable).

ROI on much else will be near zero since as Historian states, this is not on a heavily travelled route.