I'm going to be visiting our nation's capital for the first time next week and have grand visions of seeing the city by bike. I'm actually traveling on business so my time will be limited. I am staying in Arlington near the intersection of Wilson Blvd and N Fort Myer Dr.
Questions for you locals:
1) Is there a bike shop close to that intersection where I can rent a bike? I don't care what kind of bike as long as it's fast
. If there is no shop close to that location is there one within a short drive where I can park and ride?
2) I'd like to see the National Mall and the various memorials and sights. Any recommended routes or loops that you like that hit the high points? Anything less than 30 miles round trip is fair game.
3) What should I expect from drivers/infrastructure when I get there? Is it survival of the fittest/fastest or lots of bike lanes and MUPs?
4) Which bridges are bike friendly? I don't want to end up on some interstate with 65mph traffic giving me the bird.
5) Anything else I should know?
Thanks!