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?
Not at all! The ferry is completely optional, and you can cycle both ways on the Golden Gate Bridge. If you think you might want to take the boat, please purchase ferry tickets at the shop before you leave.
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Where does the ferry drop you off?
The Sausalito ferries will drop you off at Pier 41 (right by Fisherman’s Wharf). We will have the updated ferry schedule in the shop when you take your bike out.
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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. 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. However, we offer ferry tickets at a discounted rate at the time of your rental. No worries, though – if you decide to bike, swim, or fly back, just bring your tickets back and we will refund you the cost.
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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 do not leave your bike unattended in San Francisco.
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How safe is the ride along the bike path, across the Golden Gate Bridge, and into 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 most people return their bikes to the location where they started. Once you are in Sausalito, you can lock up your bike at the Joinery Restaurant (300 Turney Street) while you explore the town. When you are ready to return, most people take the ferry back to enjoy the views, or ride back if they prefer. However, if you would like to leave the bike there, we offer a drop-off service for $25/bike plus the daily rental rate (just call 415-202-8888 for assistance).
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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 ask you to return your bikes to the location you originally started as your reservation is at that shop and we do not formally share inventory between our rental locations. However, we can make an exception to this for a $10/bike relocation fee.
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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 always answer the phones. 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. Reserve whatever bike you think will be right for your child. We can make any necessary changes in the shop when you arrive. 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. Very young children may prefer a bike trailer or babyseat, which attaches behind an adult Deluxe Comfort or Electric 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?
We have lots of options to choose from, but our favorite for riding together is the Electric Passenger Bike. It’s the perfect solution for children or partners who want to join the adventure without the effort of pedaling. The passenger sits comfortably on a padded rear bench with footrests, while the driver utilizes the electric pedal-assist to power the bike and conquer the hills with ease.
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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?
No problem!! Try our Electric Passenger Bike! It’s ideal for older children or partners who want to share the ride without the workout. The driver manages the gears and braking with a boost from the electric motor, while the passenger relaxes on the comfortable rear bench seat. It’s the easiest way to explore the city together.
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Can I attach a trailer, baby seat or tag-a-long to an electric bike?
Yes! We can accommodate trailers, baby seats and Tag-a-longs on an electric bike
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Can I attach a trailer to the Ebike+Passenger or Ebike+Babyseat?
Although, we do offer a Ebike+Trailer, due to safety concerns, we are not able to connect a trailer to the Ebike+Passenger or Ebike+Babyseat.
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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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Can I reserve a high performance road/mountain bike?
Yes, you can reserve a high-end bike directly on our website. Just click on the link below. -
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! You can come in anytime after 8am.
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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 a limited inventory of bike shoes for rent. Please call the shop to inquire if we have your size. Alternately, we can fit your bike with flat or 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, 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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Which location should I go to if I want to rent an electric bike?
Our main store at 2715 Hyde Street is the best place to pick up an electric bike, and reservations are never necessary. Just stop by, and our specialists will select the perfect e-bike for your ride!
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How long does the battery last on an electric bike?
Many factors affect how long an electric bike battery lasts on a single charge, including road conditions, gear usage, rider weight, and speed. Because these variables are out of our control once the bike leaves the shop, we cannot guarantee a specific mileage. However, all of our electric bikes have enough power to get you to Sausalito. If you ever run low, just head back to the shop and we’ll swap you for a fully charged bike.
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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?
Yes! We can accommodate trailers, baby seats and Tag-a-longs on an electric bike
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Can my child ride an electric bike?
The two main criteria for riding electric bikes are height and ability of the rider. Generally speaking, riders of 5 feet and taller can fit our electric bikes. We have everyone conduct a test ride before heading out from the shop. As long as everyone is safe and comfortable, they can ride electric bikes. Feel free to call us at 415.202.8888 if you have further questions.
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What is included in the guided tour?
Your tour package includes an all-day bike rental, helmet, and lock, plus the guide and a complimentary bike drop-off in Sausalito. Ferry tickets are sold separately.
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How many people are on the guided tour?
Group sizes vary day to day. If we have a large turnout, we will either split the group or assign extra guides to assist. This ensures everyone stays safe and enjoys a personal experience on the tour. If you prefer to book a private guided tour for just your group, please email us at info@blazingsaddles.com.
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Do I need to make a reservation for the guided tour?
We always have plenty of availability on all of our tours and no reservations are required. However, if you book online you receive 20% discount, plus it helps us to know how many tour guides to schedule each day.
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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, but of course you are welcome to leave the tour at any point if you decide not to continue, just make 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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Which bike should I choose?
Reserve the bike that you think you will want—though we find most guests prefer our electric bikes! If you want to make any changes when you arrive, we can easily take care of it. As the most popular choice in our huge fleet (the largest in California!), our E-bikes are perfect for the hills, but we have something for every member of your group. You can see the options we have here. When you come into 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!
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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 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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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?
While our electric bikes are available at all locations, our 2715 Hyde Street shop is the best spot for pickups—and no reservations are ever necessary.
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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 4 Fisherman’s Wharf locations. In addition to the day rate, there is a $10 relocation fee per bicycle.
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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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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?
We are conveniently located at 2715 Hyde Street, just steps from the Hyde Street Pier and the Cable Car turnaround. We recommend using public transit or a rideshare to reach us easily. Click here for directions on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NVBZmoKuos8h2fDC8
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I reserved but won’t be able to make the tour date, what should I do?
If your plans change, no problem! Your reservation never expires and can be used at any date or time. Just call us when you're ready to rebook your reservation.
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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?
If you want to pick up a bike from another store, please contact us at (415) 202-8888 or email us at info@blazingsaddles.com so that we can do our best to accommodate. 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.