CHICAGO, IL (BRAIN)—An analysis of bike rental reservations across the United States has revealed stand out bike shops and rental statistics for comparison.
The data, compiled by nationwide bike rental network RentaBikeNow.com is the first national snapshot of bike rental reservations and establishes a benchmark as the country‘s bike friendliness continues to grow, according to a press release.
"Perhaps the question we get most often is: How much does the average rental bike cost?" said George Gill, company president and founder. The answer, Gill reports is $35.63 per day, which he‘s quick to point out is an average of many bike types, rental shops and geographic locations. The number reflects daily rates for everything from $15 Florida beach cruisers to $85 high-end carbon road bikes in California, and everything in between.the average reservation is made 12.8 days in advance.
While stats are interesting, the final evaluation goes beyond price and is heavily weighted by a renter‘s specific experience at a bike shop. Were you an inconvenience at pick-up or were you treated like Lance Armstrong? To capture this critical element, RentaBikeNow.com sends satisfaction surveys via email to every renter after their bike has been returned. The growing pool of data paints a clearer picture of who the best bike shops are and what makes them great.
The highest ranking shops share three common characteristics: customer focused attitude, flexibility and employee training. While attitude and training are fairly straight forward, flexibility centers around a shop's willingness to make minor adjustments and ensure the fit and bike condition are good. Accordingly, proper tire pressure goes a long way. Success in these areas has been a major driver in RentaBikeNow.com‘s first Rental Shop of the Year Awards. With over 300 participating shops in the RentaBikeNow.com network, the winners were recognized in four regions based on
time zones.
Bike supply and fair pricing were other factors used in selecting this year‘s winners who are:
PACIFIC: San Diego Bike Shop, San Diego, CA:
—Very decent bike and very good service . . .“ - Andre H.
It‘s hard to miss the bright smile of owner Mo Karimi. With a convenient downtown location and a helpful attitude, a
great rental experience is assured.
MOUNTAIN: Bicycles Unlimited, St. George, UT
—Great staff! I arrived just at quitting time and they stayed over to set me up.“ - Thomas C.
A truly professional bike shop with arguably some of the best riding in the country merely a stones throw away.
CENTRAL: Bike Barn, Houston, TX
—The Bike Barn was great and they did a complete bike fitting for a simple rental.“ - Richard D.
Six convenient locations with consistent customer service that customers consistently rave about.
EAST: RoadFish Bike Shop, Hilton Head, SC
—They are super friendly and great to work with.“ - David I.
If it‘s hard to choose between a cycling or a beach vacation, get both! This shop offers a broad selection and great
service that even includes delivery for a buck!
