Got questions? We've got answers! See below for answers to some of our most frequently asked queries.

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Do we have to take the ferry?
Nope! The ferry is completely optional, and you can cycle both ways on the Golden Gate Bridge. We will provide you with ferry tickets at the start of your ride as a convenience, if you use the tickets you will pay for them upon return, but if you don’t use the ferry tickets you can just return them to us at no charge.
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Where does the ferry drop you off?
The Sausalito and Tiburon ferries will drop you off at either Pier 41 (right by Fisherman’s Wharf) or Pier 1, the San Francisco Ferry Building (near Justin Herman Plaza). Check the ferry schedule inside your map for a detailed list of times and drop-off locations.
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Can I make a reservation for the ferry?
In peak times a priority boarding system may be in operation at the Sausalito ferry terminal, and we encourage you to check in at the ferry terminal upon arrival in Sausalito. You may also reserve a spot online at www.bikesausalito.com, however, reservations are not necessary. Walk-on customers board on a first-come, first served basis.
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Are ferry tickets included in the tour? Where can I get the tickets for the ferry ride back?
As the ferry is run by a separate company, the tickets are not included in your rental or tour. However, we provide ferry tickets as a convenience to you at the time of rental so you don’t have to spend time waiting in the ticket line in Sausalito. No worries, though – if you decide to bike, swim or fly back, just bring your tickets back and you won’t be charged.
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Do I have to go on the path you recommend?
Absolutely not! We recommend the ride over the Golden Gate Bridge as it’s mostly car-free, avoids many steep inclines and is (in our opinion) the most beautiful ride in San Francisco! However, you are welcome to take your bike wherever you like! Just make sure to be vigilant of your surroundings and lock your bike securely whenever necessary.
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I’m not a pro-athlete, do you think I can still do the ride over the Golden Gate Bridge?
Absolutely! This is a beginner/intermediate ride along a mostly flat bike path, and you will be away from traffic the majority of the time. The best part is that you can customize the speed and effort of your ride – just go at your own pace and make as many stops as you like! Above all else, we want our riders to come back with beautiful photos, fun stories and big smiles all around!
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How safe is the ride over the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito?
The ride is beginner/intermediate along a mostly flat bike path, and you’re completely away from traffic the majority of the time. It’s a very safe ride and suitable for the whole family!
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What do I do with the bike once in Sausalito? Is there a place to return there?
We do not currently have a rental location on the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge, so you will need to return your bike to the location where you originally started. Once you are in Sausalito, you can lock up your bike at the ferry terminal while you explore the town. Most people like to take their bikes back on the ferry to enjoy the views and fresh air, or you’re welcome to ride back if you prefer.
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How safe is the ride to Golden Gate Park?
We recommend the ride to Golden Gate Park for bikers already comfortable riding in city traffic. All of the routes we suggest follow official numbered San Francisco biking routes, and these streets may be a combination of bike lanes, shared bike and car lanes, and separated bike paths.
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Can I pick up at one Blazing Saddles and drop off at another?
We offer one-way rentals between our Hyde Street and Mason Street locations for a $10 relocation fee per bicycle, but we do encourage you to return to the location you originally started as we do not formally share inventory between our rental locations.
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What do I do if something happens to my bike, i.e. I get a flat tire?
The first thing to do is call us. Our phone number is listed both on your map and on your bike, and we have many staff members manning the phones throughout the day. We will do our best to assist you in getting back on the road as soon as possible! In case of an emergency, call 911 immediately and then contact us as soon as you are out of immediate danger.
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I’m not sure what size bike my child will need, which bike should I reserve?
No need to worry as your reservation is completely transferrable and changeable. You can specify your bike preferences on the day of your rental, and our staff can give you some great recommendations if you’re not sure about which equipment to choose.
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I’m travelling to San Francisco with my partner and two toddlers. What do you recommend?
We have many different options for small children, and it all depends on how comfortable you and your children feel. Very young children may prefer a bike trailer or babyseat, which attaches behind an adult bike. The trailer is lower to the ground and can fit up to two small children – many come back fast asleep! For children who like to know what’s going on at all times, the baby seat is higher and offers a much better vantage point.
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I’m bringing my young child with me who has never ridden a bike before. What do you recommend?
It all depends on how comfortable you and your child feel. The tag-a-long is a great option for children just getting a feel for their biking legs, as it attaches to the back of an adult bike and allows the child to help with pedaling, or free-wheel if they’re not quite at that stage. Another option is the Kidz Tandem, perfect for the little one who likes to be in charge! The steering, gear changing and braking is controlled from behind by the adult, while the child sits up front and helps out with pedaling. The Kidz Tandem also comes with an optional seat attachment if the child is not quite up to pedaling just yet.
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My child can ride a bike just fine, but I’m not sure he’ll make it all the way to Sausalito. What do you suggest?
A tandem bicycle is perfect for older children who might not be up for going solo just yet. It’s also great for improving those communication skills! The stronger rider controls the gears, steering and braking from the front seat, while the second rider helps to pedal from behind.
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Can I attach a trailer, baby seat or tag-a-long to an electric bike?
Electric bikes can be very powerful and we do not recommend attaching kids’ equipment to these bikes.
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Can I attach a trailer or baby seat to a tandem bicycle?
Due to the length of the bicycle and the difficulty in turning corners, braking and general control of the equipment, we do not recommend attaching kids’ equipment to a tandem bicycle.
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I’m planning a long distance ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles, one-way. How can I get my bike back to you?
Unfortunately we don’t currently have a store in southern California. However, several of our riders have had success in shipping bikes back to us. Send us an e-mail or call us at (415) 202-8888 for more information on shipping.
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I’m in town for a conference and I won’t have time to come by and pick up a bike. Can you deliver a road bike to my hotel?
While we prefer to have you pick up the bike in person so our road bike specialists can help with your custom bike fitting, we can absolutely arrange bike drop-off and/or pick-up to most hotels in San Francisco. E-mail or call us at (415) 202-8888 for a quote.
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How can I reserve a high performance road/mountain bike?
Currently you can reserve a high-end road bike directly on our website and we are working on updating our online reservation system to include our mountain bikes, but for now you can download the Mountain Bike PDF form and email it to us . Please note that the bike you choose is subject to availability and more details will be provided via email. For triathlons and special events, please contact us directly at info@blazingsaddles.com or by calling us at (415) 202-8888.
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Where can I go to pick up a high performance road/mountain bike?
All of our high performance road and mountain bikes are exclusively located at our 2715 Hyde Street location. Our specially trained staff can assist you in your bike fitting and recommend some great routes!
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I only need my high performance road/mountain bike for one hour, but I can only see a daily rate. How much is one hour?
We charge a flat daily rate for all of our high performance bikes so our riders can get the most out of their rental! Ask our high performance bike specialists to recommend some great long-distance rides around the Bay Area.
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I’m planning on an early morning ride on one of your high performance road bikes, but I see the earliest you open is 8am. What should I do?
You’re welcome to pick up your bike the evening before your ride! Your rental is good for a full 24hrs, so if you return the bike by the same time the next evening, you’ll pay the same rate. Just make sure you have somewhere safe inside to keep your bike overnight. Our 2715 Hyde Street location is open until at least 5pm every day, and often later during busier seasons. Call (415) 202-8888 for current hours of operation.
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What kind of pedals can you fit to my bike?
To ensure the best compatibility for your high-end road or mountain bike rental, we recommend you bring your own pedals and we'll attach them for you. If you prefer to use ours, we carry SPD, SPD-SL, Look Original, and Look Keo. We also carry flat pedals and cages.
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I’m on vacation and I forgot my biking shoes. What can you do for me?
We currently do not rent biking shoes or cleats, but we can fit your bike with cage pedals.
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What’s included with a high performance road/mountain bike rental?
Your road bike rental comes fully loaded with a helmet, two bottle cages, patch kit, cycle computer and lock if requested. The patch kit is an under-seat wedge pack including the following: spare tube, patch kit, multitool, and CO2 (inflator and 2 cartridges).
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I’m planning a week-long cycling trip around the Bay Area. Which bike would you recommend?
Our Marin Four Corners is perfect for a dedicated cycling trip! With a steel frame and chromoly components, you can choose to fully load this bike with front and rear racks, panniers and handlebar bag to support a long distance ride. Feel free to contact us at (415) 202-8888 for more information.
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What is the difference between the electric bikes?
If you're planning to cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge, we recommend our custom E-Blazer electric bikes for $78/day. These have a light aluminum frame and a strong pedal assist, as well as ample range for the ride to Sausalito and even Tiburon! Our top-of-the-line electric bike is the Stromer at $88/day. The Stromer has the longest range and it's a great choice for longer bike rides too, or for getting around downtown San Francisco.
Our large fleet of electric bikes rents out from our 2715 Hyde Street location at Fisherman's Wharf, and our knowledgeable staff can help you decide on which bike is the best for your ride.
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Which location should I go to if I want to rent an electric bike?
All of our electric bikes rent out exclusively from our 2715 Hyde Street location, and no reservations are ever necessary. Head in there and our electric bike specialists can help you decide on which bike is the best for your ride!
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How long does the battery last on an electric bike?
Many factors impact upon how long your electric bike battery will last on a single charge. Road conditions, terrain, use of gears, amount of pedaling, rider height and weight, speed, how much and often the electric assist is used and how long the battery is left on all impact the battery life. Because these factors are out of our control once the bike leaves the shop, we cannot guarantee an approximate mileage.
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Does the battery on an electric bike recharge while I pedal?
We wish! While pedaling will help to conserve battery life as you and the bike share the effort, it will not add more charge to the original amount in the battery when you left the store.
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Can I attach a trailer, baby seat or tag-a-long to an electric bike?
Electric bikes are very powerful and we do not recommend attaching kids’ equipment to these models.
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Can my child ride an electric bike?
By California State Law, you must be 13 years old to ride an electric bike. If you or your children look younger than 13, our staff may ask to check identification.
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Do you have electric tandem bicycles?
We do not currently carry any electric tandems.
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Can I bring my own bike on the guided tour?
You’re welcome to bring your own bike on our guided tour for a discounted rate! Call us at (415) 202-8888 for pricing.
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What is included in the guided tour?
The guided tour includes an all-day bike rental, helmets, locks, and of course, the guide! Ferry tickets are not included in the price of tour.
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How many people are on the guided tour?
It all depends on how many riders show up on the day…Our guided tour is open to everyone, and we require a minimum of 4 riders for it to go ahead each day. If we do happen to have a large group, we’ll either split the group or send extra guides to help out. This ensures everyone stays safe, stays together and has a great personal experience on the tour. If you’re worried about a larger group and are interested in booking your own private guided tour, email our Marketing and Events Coordinator.
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Do I need to make a reservation for the guided tour?
Nope! We always have plenty of availability on all of our tours and no reservations are required. If we have a large group, we’ll either split into smaller groups or send along more guides to help out.
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I haven’t ridden a bike in years, and I’m worried I’ll slow the rest of the group down!
Our tour guides are very experienced in helping out riders of all different ages and abilities, and we never leave anyone behind. For larger groups we often send a ‘caboose’, or someone who rides at the back of the group making sure everyone stays together. If you have any concerns, be sure to communicate them to the guide at the beginning of the tour so she or he can keep an extra eye out!
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What if along the way I decide I don’t want to stay with the tour?
We recommend you stay with your group where possible as your guide will be familiar with the group size and needs, but of course you are welcome to leave the tour at any point if you decide not to continue, just be sure to let your tour guide know before taking off.
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What is the advantage of taking a guided tour over a self-guided tour?
Our guided tours are a great introduction to the history surrounding San Francisco and the Bay Area. Along the ride, our knowledgeable and local guides will share interesting facts, little-known secrets and fun stories about our colorful city. You’re on vacation, so why rush? The guided tour goes at a nice easy pace, with many stops for photographs, snacks, bathroom breaks and information, and is all-around a much more personal, enjoyable experience for those looking for something a little different during their San Francisco visit!
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Can I continue with my bike after the guided tour is over?
Absolutely! All-day bike rental is included in the price of the tour, and our staff can recommend some great options to continue riding after the guided portion of the tour is over.
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Are helmets required by law? Can I bring my own helmet?
California State Law requires helmets be worn by riders under the age of 18. Helmets are not mandatory for riders over the age of 18, but they are recommended. You are more than welcome to bring your own helmet with you.
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How old do I need to be to rent a bike?
There is no age limit on bike rental, however bikers under the age of 18 must be accompanied or have a release form signed by a parent or guardian.
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What if I’ve never ever ridden a bike before?
We have many options for bikers who may not yet be confident enough to ride alone, and we recommend coming on in to our main location at 2715 Hyde Street for a wide range of bikes and a safe indoor test ride.
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Which bike should I choose?
No need to worry about which bike to reserve. We have the largest fleet in California and we are sure to have something for every member of your group! You can see the options we have here. When you come in to our 2715 Hyde Street location, you’ll be able to try out the equipment on our indoor test ride to make sure everyone is comfortable and safe for their ride!
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I’ve never ridden a tandem bike before. Is it difficult?
Not at all! Tandem bicycles are a lot of fun and great for working on your communication skills. Keep in mind that both riders will need to be pedaling at the same time, and your turns will be a lot wider than on a regular bike. Having two people pedaling the uphills sure makes a difference, though! No reservations are needed as we have hundreds of tandems in our fleet; most are located at our 2715 Hyde Street location, so come on in for a custom fitting and indoor test ride.
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What’s included with every rental?
Your rental comes fully loaded with a helmet, bicycle lock, rear rack for strapping down larger items on our Comfort bikes, front bike bag for smaller items such as cameras and water bottles, detailed map and ferry schedule, front map holder and bike bell. A patch kit is also available upon request.
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I don’t have time to come by and pick up a bike. Can you deliver a bike to my hotel/apartment?
While we prefer customers to pick up bikes in person so we can give you a custom fitting and test ride, we can absolutely arrange bike drop-off and/or pick-up to most addresses in San Francisco. Email or call us on (415) 202-8888 for a quote.
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I loved my bike so much I want to buy one! What’s the closest model and where can I find one?
Our Deluxe Comfort Hybrid bikes are specially made for our company and unique to Blazing Saddles! The closest model is the Fuji Sunfire – while this bike is no longer part of Fuji’s current catalog, many third-party bike websites still stock it.
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I prepaid for my bike rental via a voucher/coupon on a third-party website. What do I need to do before coming in to redeem it?
No reservations are needed – just make sure you bring in a copy of your voucher or coupon (either on your smart phone, tablet, or printed) on the day so we can redeem it for you in the store. Generally speaking, most vouchers must be redeemed at either our 2715 Hyde Street location or our 433 Mason Street location. Please read the fine print carefully before your rental.
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I only see an hourly and a daily rate for bike rental on your website. Is it possible to rent a bike for half a day?
Bike rental rates start at $8/hr and $32/day, and you pay everything when you return so whichever rate works out cheapest for you!
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I only need my high performance road/mountain bike for one hour, but I can only see a daily rate. How much is one hour?
We charge a flat daily rate for all of our high performance bikes so our riders can get the most out of their rental! Ask our high performance bike specialists to recommend some great long-distance rides around the Bay Area.
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I need to rent a bike for a week. How much is it and what is required?
Our weekly rates start at $99 for our Comfort Mountain bike (the one that rents at $32 daily) and $129 for our Deluxe Comfort bike (the one that rents at $36 daily). Our high-performance bikes all have special discounted weekly rates. You can’t get those rates on our website, so come on in to set up a weekly rental with us in person. We ask that you keep your bike safely indoors overnight, and make sure to lock it securely at all times.
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Do I need a driver’s license, ID or credit card to rent a bike?
We require a security deposit on all rentals. This could include a credit card, photo identification or other form of deposit. Bikers under the age of 18 must be accompanied or have a release form signed by a parent or guardian.
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Where is the best place for my family to start?
Come into our family friendly location at 2715 Hyde Street where we have the largest selection of children’s equipment and an indoor test ride! This location is only a block and a half away from the car-free Presidio National Park Bike Path. Check out all of our locations here.
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Where can I go to pick up a high performance road/mountain bike?
All of our high performance road and mountain bikes are exclusively located at our 2715 Hyde Street location. Our specially trained staff can assist you in your bike fitting and recommend some great routes! Reserve your high-end road bike directly on our website, and if you're looking for a high-end mountain bike just download our Mountain Bikes reservation form.
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Which location should I go to if I want to rent an electric bike?
All of our electric bikes rent out exclusively from our 2715 Hyde Street location, and no reservations are ever necessary. Head in there and our electric bike specialists can help you decide on which bike is the best for your ride!
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Can I pick up at one Blazing Saddles location and drop off at another?
Blazing Saddles offers one way rentals between our 5 Fisherman’s Wharf locations and our Union Square location at 433 Mason Street. In addition to the day rate, there is a $10 relocation fee per bicycle.
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Which location should I start from if I want to go to Golden Gate Park?
If you’d like a more urban adventure, check out our Union Square location at 433 Mason Street! From there, you’ll take bike-friendly Market Street to the Wiggle, a flat bike route popular with local cyclists that will help you avoid the hills up to Golden Gate Park! Along the way you’ll cruise by Alamo Square, the Panhandle and the peace-loving Haight-Ashbury district.
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For the Alcatraz Island tour packages, when can I do each of my tours?
You’ll book for a specific Alcatraz tour time, but you can do the biking and bus activities anytime you like!
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How do I get my Alcatraz Island tour package tickets?
You will receive a confirmation e-mail after you book that will include vouchers for each of your activities, as well as information about where and how to redeem each voucher. For example, you will bring your Alcatraz tour voucher to Alcatraz Cruises on the day of your Alcatraz tour to get your Alcatraz Island tickets; you will bring your guided bike tour voucher to Blazing Saddles when you’re ready for the bike ride.
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I see the Alcatraz Island package comes with a guided bike tour. Instead of doing the guided tour, can I just rent the bike and go on my own?
Absolutely! The biking portion of the Alcatraz Island tour package comes with our daily guided bike tour, all-day bike rental, and bottled water. If you want to skip the guided portion and go on your own, though – no problem! You can still get the all-day bike rental and bottled water, then go on a self-guided biking adventure. Come to our 2715 Hyde Street location with the guided bike tour voucher from your confirmation e-mail, and just let us know you want to go self-guided instead.
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Do I need to puchase an Alcatraz Island tour package for my child?
Toddlers (ages 0-4 years old) are free on Alcatraz Island and do not need tickets. Children ages 5-17 will need an Alcatraz ticket.
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For the Bike, Bus, and Rock Alcatraz Island tour package, where does the bus tour go?
The bus portion of the Bike, Bus & Rock tour package is operated by Big Bus, and you can click here to see a PDF of their route map.
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What are your hours of operation?
All of our locations are open every day at 8AM and we like to say we never close! We have a 24 hour drop off garage so you can return your equipment whenever you want!
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What is the best way to get to you?
Our main location is at 2715 Hyde Street at Fisherman's Wharf. Our exact location and transit help can be viewed on Google Maps here: https://www.google.com/maps/place/2715+Hyde+St,+San+Francisco
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I reserved but won’t be able to make the tour date, what on earth shall I do?
If your plans change, no problem! Your reservation never expires and can be used at any date or time.
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I made a reservation and it says to go to Hyde Street, but I want to pick up my bike at a different location. What should I do?
Reserved bikes may only be picked up at our main Fisherman's Wharf location, 2715 Hyde Street, or our downtown location at 433 Mason Street. We do not formally share reservations between other locations.
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What if I don’t get back in time to return my bike?
If you’re having too much fun out there and you don’t think you’ll make it back before we close, call us on (415) 202-8888 for instructions on how to drop off your bikes after hours.
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What should I wear and bring with me?
San Francisco is famous for its micro-climates, and it can get quite windy and cold on the waterfront and the Golden Gate Bridge. We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing with warm layers and athletic shoes. We do not have secure customer storage available at our stores, so keep in mind that you will need to take everything with you on your bike ride! Bring only the essentials - anything that can be carried in a small backpack or secured to the rack on the back of your bike.