Local bike shops do more than sell and repair bicycles. Many shops host one or more shop rides. Almost all are no drop, meaning you won’t be left behind. They’re a great way to learn cycling skills, make new friends, find new places to ride, and have fun. For the most part, road bikes are required for the road rides, unless otherwise specified, and all skill levels are welcome. Some road rides may split into two groups. Many shops post ride announcements and updates on their Facebook page. Here is what’s offered in the Spokane area this summer.
This Bike Life (509-413-2529) in south Spokane hosts a 20-30 mile road ride from their shop on Wednesday evenings. They average 15-18 miles per hour. They also lead a mountain bike ride on Friday evenings. Check their Facebook page for where to meet for the Friday rides.
In north Spokane, Bicycle Butler (509-328-7475) will take you out on a “No Drop Groovy” mountain bike ride on Wednesday evenings. Meet at the shop at 6 p.m. All skill levels are welcome. Meet at the shop at 7 a.m. if you want to do the Saturday morning road ride.
North Division Bicycle (509-467-2453) will take you out on 20-25 mile road rides on every other Sunday morning, Thursday evening, and Saturday morning. On Sunday you meet at the shop at 8 a.m. The Thursday ride is at 6 p.m. And on Saturday meet at the shop at 8 a.m. Call the shop or check Facebook to make sure which Sunday, Thursday, or Saturday is the right one.
Wheel Sport South (509-747-4187) on Spokane’s South Hill puts on a road ride just for women who are just starting out and looking to learn more. Meet at the store at 6 p.m. on Mondays. They also host a road bike ride on Thursday evenings at 6:30. Meet at the shop and end up at the Manito Tap House. Wheel Sport Central (509-326-3977) in Spokane has a road ride every other Sunday at 4:30 p.m. Wheel Sport East (509-921-7729) in Spokane Valley has a road ride at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays. Sunday mountain bike rides are also scheduled, but you need to call the store to get the time and location.
The Bike Hub in Spokane Valley (509-433-4005) has two road rides on Monday evenings at 6 p.m. One ride is for women only, and it’s in the 15-20 mile range. Hybrid bikes are welcome. The other ride is coed, about 25-30 miles. The downtown Spokane Bike Hub (509-474-1260) meets at the shop at 8 a.m. on Saturday mornings for 20-30 miles of road riding.
Fitness Fanatics (509-922-6080) in Spokane Valley will take you out on a road ride every Thursday at 6 p.m. They usually break into a faster and slower group, but nobody is left behind.
Two Wheel Transit (509-747-2231) in Spokane has a road ride every Wednesday evening. Meet at the shop at 5:30 p.m.
In North Idaho, there are these fun options.
Terra Sports (208-765-5446) in Coeur d’Alene hosts Bikes, Brews and Burgers every Wednesday evening. Meet at the shop at 6 p.m. or the Nettleton Gulch Trailhead on Canfield Mountain at 6:15 for some trail riding on Canfield Mountain. Afterwards, join everyone at the Slate Creek Brewery for BYOBBQ and a dollar off your first pint of beer. They also have a road ride on Tuesday evenings. Meet at the shop at 5:30 pm.
Vertical Earth (208-667-5503) in Coeur d’Alene holds a casual mountain bike ride every Thursday evening. Meet at the shop at 6 p.m. or at the Nettleton Gulch Trailhead on Canfield Mountain at 6:30 p.m. After the ride, everyone is invited to get burgers and beer at Capone’s. They also host “Saturday Morning Worlds!” at 9 a.m. on Saturday. This is a competitive road ride where you can expect about 45 miles of fast-paced action.
Bicycle Sales & Service (208-667-8969) in Coeur d’Alene has a casual ladies-only road ride every Wednesday evening. Meet at the shop at 6:15 p.m. They join with Vertical Earth for the Thursday evening casual mountain bike ride.
Two Wheeler Dealer (208-772-8179) in Hayden has a Saturday morning road ride. Meet at the shop at 8 a.m. and expect to do 25-40 miles. They also have a mountain bike ride on Saturday mornings. Usually they meet at the shop at 7 a.m. and drive to their destination.
Local bike shops are key components to our cycling community. Shop rides are facets that help make our cycling community shine. Join in on the fun! //
