Vancouver Date Idea: Rent a Tandem Bike

For thirteen years, I lived downtown, just steps from the Seawall and Stanley Park. On sunny days, I’d take my bike and ride around the Park, taking in the views and the happy people I passed by. I’d often see couples on bicycles built for two (tandem) and yearn for someone who would ride with me (cue the sympathy). It seemed like so much fun! It also seemed pretty tricky for someone as uncoordinated as me, but I was more than willing to give it a try.

Every spring/summer, I come up with a list of things I want to do or attend in the city before September rolls around again (eg go to the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, suntan on Jericho Beach, have fish ‘n’ chips in Steveston, hike the Chief). This year, I told my boyfriend that we were going to rent a tandem bike at some point, and go cycling together. I can’t wait!

In preparation for our cycling adventure, I did some research on where to rent tandem bicycles in Vancouver. I also got some tips on how to ride one for a newbie like me.

Bayshore Bike Rentals (745 Denman Street)

This company is perfectly located at the entrance to Stanley Park, and rents a wide variety of bikes as well as Rollerblade in-line skates. Tandem bikes are $13.80 per hour (minimum 2 hours), or 4 hours for $39.80. There are additional rates for more extended rental periods. Over the phone, staff member José Paquet said that about 15-20% of their rentals are for tandem bikes, often by couples, but also by family and friend duos.

When I told him that I was nervous about trying a tandem bike for the first time, he quickly reassured me: “It’s not that difficult. You can get used to it in five minutes. The main thing is that you have to synchronize the person in the back with the one in the front. The tip I always give people is to slowly start and slowly stop. If you start slowly, it’s easier for both people to get synchronized.” In other words, tandem bike riding is a great way to see how the two of you work together as a couple. And if you’re with someone who doesn’t like to stop and smell the proverbial roses, well, they’re going to have to change their ways for your cycling.

Paquet also suggests very specific terrain for tandem bike riding. “It has to be flat and really relaxed. We don’t suggest people go into the city. Because of the cars, you have to react quickly, which isn’t that easy with a tandem. It’s also harder to turn since you have to make wide turns.” He recommends the Seawall since it’s free of car traffic, hill free, and gorgeous.

Flickr: James Wheeler

Spokes Bicycle Rentals

Also found right at the entrance to Stanley Park, Spokes has an impressive selection of bikes to choose from. Staff are super helpful and knowledgeable. Tandem bikes are $15.24 for the first hour, $30.48 for two hours, $45.71 for 3-6 hours, $60.95 for all day, and $76.19 for 24 hours.

EzeeRiders (1823 Robson Street; 28-1055 Canada Place)

Sourced from EzeeRiders

This rental company has two locations, one closer to Stanley Park and the other at the Vancouver Convention Centre. One of their selling points is pro-rated rentals after the first hour versus charging for full hours as most places do. The Robson location asks for $11.50 for the first hour, and $0.192 per minute for additional minutes. Half days (4 hours) are $29.99 and full days (until closing) are $45.99. Meanwhile, the other location’s rates are $16.50 for the first hour, and $0.275 per minute for additional minutes. Half days (4 hours) are $45.50 and full days (until closing) are $68.50. They also have bikes with an electric option if you need some added power oomph.

Flickr: Todd_Hobert

Cycle City Rentals (1344 Burrard Street)

Until May 14, Cycle City will offer low season bike rental rates. Tandem bikes are $30 for two hours, $45 for a half day (5 hours), $60 for a full day (until closing), and $75 for 24 hours. They’re located near the False Creek portion of the Seawall.