A huge fan of the bike, I’d take my mountain bike all over Greater Phoenix if I had more time. The best thing about riding is it’s free. In this area, you have your choice of hundreds of miles of canal banks, mountain trails, paved paths, and bike lanes — and the trip won’t cost you a cent.
If you’re from out of town and want to take advantage of some of the hotels that provide bikes for you to ride — no charge — consider a room at The Saguaro in Old Town Scottsdale. Just ask the valet at the entrance, and he’ll pull out a hot a neon-colored desert cruiser for you and point you on your way.
Bespoke Inn, Cafe & Bicycles will outfit you with a Pashley bike. They sell the European-style two-wheelers in the adjoining shop but offer them for complimentary use to guests of the bed & breakfast.
But if you’re looking for something more dare devilish, Bike emporium for bike rents bikes. They’ll also help you map out your ride, or provide you with a map if you’d rather find a trail on your own.
There’s only one drawback about riding in desert summers; you want to get up and get out early. I recommend 5 a.m.
Winters, anytime is bike time in Arizona.
