Explore Detroit on Two Wheels
Detroit bike rentals are widely available throughout the city, making it easy to explore Michigan’s largest metropolis on two wheels.
Here’s a quick snapshot of Detroit’s main bike rental options:
| Rental Provider | Starting Price | Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| MoGo Bike Share | $1 + $0.25/min | Station-based access across city | Quick trips, commuting |
| Local Bike Shops | $17/2 hours | Helmets, locks included | Leisurely exploration, families |
| Specialty Rentals | Varies | High-quality bikes for specific needs | Extended rentals, enthusiasts |
Detroit offers over 140 miles of bike lanes and a largely flat terrain, making it an excellent city for cycling. Whether you’re a corporate traveler looking to squeeze in some exercise between meetings or a visiting nurse wanting to explore the revitalized downtown on your day off, renting a bike provides a sustainable, fun way to experience the city.
“Biking in Detroit? Heck yeah! Detroit is an excellent city for cycling,” notes a local bike rental shop on their FAQ page, highlighting the city’s bike-friendly infrastructure and scenic routes like the RiverWalk and Dequindre Cut.
I’m Sean Swain, a Detroit business owner who frequently recommends Detroit bike rentals to guests staying at my furnished rentals, as cycling offers the perfect way to experience our city’s renaissance while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Relevant articles related to Detroit bike rentals:
– Biking, Running and Fitness in Detroit
– Detroit 5K races
– Detroit bike paths
Detroit Bike Rentals: Main Options at a Glance
Detroit’s cycling scene has truly blossomed in recent years! With the city’s flat terrain and expanding network of bike lanes, exploring on two wheels has never been more appealing. Whether you’re staying at one of our furnished apartments for a week or just in town for the day, there’s a perfect Detroit bike rental option waiting for you.
You’ll find three main types of Detroit bike rentals throughout the city:
- Station-based bike share systems like MoGo, which has over 75 convenient stations scattered across Detroit and neighboring communities
- Full-service bike shops where you’ll get personalized attention and a wider selection of bike styles
- Specialized rental services offering adaptive bikes, e-bikes with power assistance for those hills, and various accessories for riders of all abilities
Most rental providers include those must-have extras like helmets and locks at no additional cost. If you’re traveling with little ones, you’ll be happy to know many shops offer family-friendly options like child carriers, pull-behind trailers, and tag-alongs that let kids pedal alongside you.
Planning a corporate outing or family reunion? Many local bike rental companies can deliver bikes right to your doorstep, whether that’s your Detroit Furnished Rental apartment, hotel, or event venue. This service is particularly handy for team-building activities, wedding parties exploring the city, or corporate retreats.
Detroit Bike Rentals for Quick Trips
Need to zip across downtown for a meeting or want to quickly check out a nearby attraction? The station-based MoGo bike share system is your best friend. With over 75 stations throughout Detroit, you’re never far from a bike.
MoGo keeps pricing simple: $1 to open up a bike plus $0.25 per minute while you ride. A typical 15-minute journey across downtown costs just $4.75 – often faster and cheaper than rideshares during busy times.
I’ve had countless guests rave about how easy MoGo is to use. Michael, who stayed in one of our midtown apartments during a three-week consulting gig, told me: “Those MoGo bikes were a lifesaver! I could grab one right outside my building and be at my client’s office in 10 minutes flat. No parking hassles, no waiting for Ubers – just hop on and go.”
The process couldn’t be simpler – download the Transit App or visit any MoGo kiosk, buy your pass, get your ride code, grab your bike, and you’re off! When you’re done, just return it to any MoGo station in the network.
Detroit Bike Rentals for Day Trips
For those lovely days when you want to really explore Detroit’s neighborhoods, riverfront, or Belle Isle, full-service bike shops offer more comfort and flexibility. Many local rental shops provide several bike types perfectly suited for longer trips:
Simple Cruisers give you that classic, relaxed ride that’s perfect for meandering along the Riverwalk. Comfort Hybrids offer a more upright position that’s easy on your back for those all-day excursions. Fitness enthusiasts might prefer Sport Hybrids for covering more ground, while the Deluxe City Cruisers provide extra comfort features for those who want to ride in style.
Day rentals typically run about $35-45, with shorter two-hour options starting around $17. What makes shop rentals special is the personalized service – staff will help fit you to the perfect bike and can recommend routes based on your interests and ability level.
Families especially appreciate the kid-friendly options available at local rental shops. Jennifer, who stayed with us during a family vacation, shared: “The bike rental staff set us up perfectly – comfortable hybrids for my husband and me, a small BMX for our 7-year-old, and the cutest little trailer for our toddler. Riding around Belle Isle together was the highlight of our Detroit trip!”
For those with specific needs, you’ll also find adult tricycles for extra stability, trailers for hauling picnic supplies, and tag-along attachments that let younger kids pedal alongside an adult. These thoughtful options make Detroit bike rentals accessible for nearly everyone, regardless of age or ability level.
How Detroit Bike Rentals Work Step-by-Step
Hopping on a bike in Detroit is refreshingly simple, whether you’re grabbing a quick ride from a bike share station or visiting a local shop. Let me walk you through exactly how to get rolling in the Motor City:
For the station-based MoGo system, you’ll start by finding a nearby station through their app or website. Choose your pass type – whether that’s the flexible Pay As You Go option at $1 plus $0.25/minute, a $10 day pass for unlimited 60-minute rides, a $20 monthly membership, or the $90 annual pass for regular riders. Once you’ve made your selection, you’ll receive a 5-digit code either on your phone or at the kiosk.
Entering your code at the station open ups your bike – just lift the seat and pull it out. While riding, remember to follow traffic laws and stick to bike lanes when possible. When you’re finished, simply return the bike to any MoGo station (they don’t have to match!), and wait for the green light that confirms your bike is properly docked.
“I love how easy the MoGo system is,” says Marcus, who recently stayed at one of our Detroit Furnished Rentals properties. “I used it three times during my week-long stay – once to grab lunch, once to explore Eastern Market, and once just because it was a beautiful day.”
For those with accessibility needs, MoGo offers special Access Passes for qualified individuals at just $5, as well as Adaptive Passes ranging from $12-$30 that make cycling available to more people.
More info about MoGo Bike Share
Booking Detroit Bike Rentals in Advance
Planning ahead for your Detroit bike rental is always a smart move, especially during the busy summer season when bikes can disappear faster than Tigers tickets. Most rental shops offer online booking systems where you can select your bike type, rental duration, and any accessories you might need.
Many local bike rental shops require at least 12 hours’ notice for online reservations. For longer rentals spanning multiple days, it’s worth reaching out directly via email – you might even score a better rate.
When making advance reservations, keep in mind that most rentals operate “rain or shine” unless conditions become dangerous. Cancellations typically require 48+ hours’ notice to avoid fees, and changes often come with a $10 service charge.
“I can’t stress enough how important it is to book ahead during summer weekends,” shares Lisa, who stayed at one of our furnished apartments last July. “I reserved my bike a week in advance, and when I arrived at the rental shop, they were turning away at least five walk-ins because they were fully booked. That extra planning saved my Saturday trip!”
Walk-up Detroit Bike Rentals: What to Expect
Sometimes the best trips are spontaneous! If you wake up to perfect weather and suddenly decide it’s a biking day, walk-up rentals are often available, especially on weekdays or during quieter seasons.
When you arrive at a bike rental shop without a reservation, the friendly staff will first check if they have bikes available in your preferred style and size. You’ll complete a quick rental agreement, show your ID, and then comes the fun part – getting fitted for your bike. The staff will adjust your seat height and handlebars to ensure a comfortable ride.
Before sending you off, they’ll provide a brief safety overview covering how to use the bike, lock, and gears. They’ll also happily suggest routes based on your interests and available time – whether that’s a scenic riverfront cruise or a mural tour through Eastern Market.
“I showed up on a Tuesday morning without a reservation,” recalls James, who was staying at one of our Detroit Furnished Rentals locations. “The staff at the rental shop had me fitted and ready to roll in less than 15 minutes. They suggested the Dequindre Cut to Eastern Market route, which turned out to be the highlight of my business trip.”
For the best shot at securing a walk-up rental, try to arrive early in the day, especially during the peak May-September season when bikes tend to disappear by mid-morning.
Pricing, Passes & Discounts
When it comes to Detroit bike rentals, you’ll find pricing options as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re zipping between meetings or planning a full day of exploration, there’s a rental plan that fits both your schedule and wallet.
MoGo Bike Share Pricing:
MoGo offers flexible options that grow with your needs. Their Pay As You Go plan starts with a simple $1 open up fee plus $0.25 per minute – perfect for quick trips across downtown. If you’re planning more extensive riding, consider their 1-Hour Pass at $10, which gives you unlimited 60-minute rides for a full day.
For longer stays in Detroit, the Monthly Pass at $20 provides fantastic value with unlimited 60-minute rides for a full 30 days. Frequent visitors or residents should check out the Annual Pass at $90, essentially giving you a year of city-wide transportation for less than a tank of gas each month.
I’m particularly impressed with MoGo’s commitment to accessibility. Their $5 annual Access Pass for income-eligible individuals and range of Adaptive Passes ($12-$30) ensure everyone can experience Detroit on two wheels.
Local Bike Shop Pricing:
For a more personalized rental experience, local bike shops offer several time-based options. Their 2-hour rentals start at a reasonable $17 for adult bikes – perfect for a quick tour of the Riverwalk and Dequindre Cut. Half-day trips run approximately $25-30, while full-day explorations range from $35-45 depending on your bike choice.
“We rented comfort hybrids for the day and it was absolutely worth the $35,” shares Maria, who stayed at one of our Detroit Furnished Rentals apartments last summer. “We covered so much ground – from Eastern Market to Corktown and back – all while avoiding parking hassles.”
Planning a longer Detroit visit? Many local shops offer multi-day rentals with custom pricing – just reach out to them directly to work out the details.
Available Discounts:
Detroit loves to take care of its own – and visitors too! Detroit bike rentals come with several money-saving opportunities:
Detroit residents enjoy a generous 25% discount on walk-in cruiser rentals Monday through Thursday at many local bike shops (just bring your ID). AAA members, military personnel, and police and fire department staff can also access special rates at participating locations.
Bringing friends? Group rentals (6-20 people) typically qualify for reduced rates, making it perfect for family reunions, corporate team outings, or wedding parties looking to explore the city together.
Money-Saving Tips for Detroit Bike Rentals:
Smart timing can save you serious cash on your bike trips. If you’ll be cycling for more than 40 minutes at a stretch, MoGo’s 1-Hour Pass ($10) quickly becomes more economical than their minute-by-minute rate. Weekday rentals (Monday-Thursday) often come with lower demand and better availability.
Here’s an insider tip from Sean at Detroit Furnished Rentals: “Ask about overnight deals. Some shops let you pick up late afternoon and return early morning while only charging for a single day – perfect for evening rides along the illuminated Riverwalk.”
Package deals combining bike rentals with guided tours can offer excellent value, and keep an eye out for special passes during major Detroit events like Movement or the Jazz Festival.
Want to ensure you’re cycling safely around the Motor City? This external video guide on safe cycling provides excellent tips for navigating Detroit’s streets and bike lanes.
Sample Detroit Bike Rentals Cost Breakdown
Let me break down what you might actually spend on different cycling trips:
For a quick coffee run using MoGo, you’re looking at just $4.75 total ($1 open up fee plus about $3.75 for a 15-minute ride). Perfect for grabbing that latte from Great Lakes Coffee without hunting for parking.
An afternoon exploration on a Simple Cruiser from a local bike shop runs $17 for two hours, with helmet and lock included. That’s enough time to cruise the entire RiverWalk, snap some photos, and maybe grab a quick bite at the Rivertown Market.
Detroit bike rentals for the whole family require a bit more investment but deliver tremendous value. A family of four might spend around $140 for a full day ($35 each for two adult Comfort Hybrids, $25 for a Kids BMX, and $45 for a Cruiser with Child Carrier). All safety gear included!
Weekend visitors might consider the multi-day option – roughly $100-120 for a Sport Hybrid for three days, complete with helmet, lock, and lights. That’s less than most car rentals would cost for a single day.
“We actually saved money by renting bikes,” explains James, who recently stayed at one of our Detroit Furnished Rentals apartments. “Between parking fees, gas, and the hassle of driving, our family’s day exploring Belle Isle and the Cultural Center by bike was not just more fun – it was more economical too!”
Where to Ride: Best Bicycle Routes in Detroit
Once you’ve secured your Detroit bike rental, the next question is where to ride. Fortunately, Detroit offers numerous scenic and safe routes for cyclists of all experience levels.
Top Detroit Cycling Routes:
The Detroit RiverWalk has become the crown jewel of the city’s cycling routes. This 5.5-mile paved path meanders along the Detroit River, offering breathtaking views of the water with Windsor, Canada creating a picturesque backdrop across the shore. I’ve seen countless families and casual riders enjoying this path, stopping at the various parks and plazas along the way. It’s perfect when you want a leisurely ride with plenty of spots to rest and take photos.
Just a short ride away, the Dequindre Cut Greenway offers a completely different urban experience. This 2-mile path was cleverly built on a former railroad line, sitting below street level and completely separated from traffic. What makes this route special is the vibrant street art and graffiti that transforms concrete walls into an open-air gallery. The wide, smooth path makes it perfect for riders of all skill levels.
Belle Isle remains my personal favorite recommendation for visitors. This 982-acre island park feels like a peaceful escape from the city, despite being minutes from downtown. The 6-mile perimeter road has minimal vehicle traffic and offers stunning panoramic views of both the Detroit and Windsor skylines. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it – the island houses a nature center, aquarium, and beautiful conservatory that are worth exploring between rides.
For those looking to cover more ground, the developing Joe Louis Greenway is changing how we experience Detroit by bike. While still under construction, several sections of this ambitious 27.5-mile loop are already open, connecting diverse neighborhoods, parks, and existing trails throughout the city. When completed, it will be a cyclist’s dream for exploring Detroit’s varied landscapes.
Detroit’s rich culture and history make for fascinating themed rides. Many cyclists create their own Cultural Heritage Routes focusing on the city’s music scene, architectural landmarks, or vibrant public art. The colorful murals in Eastern Market and throughout Southwest Detroit are particularly popular stops for Instagram-worthy photos.
Maria, who stayed at one of our Detroit Furnished Rentals apartments last month, couldn’t stop raving about her guided experience: “We took a guided Eastern Market tour and it was fantastic! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about Detroit’s history. We left with a new appreciation for the city and immediately booked the Corktown tour for the next day.”
More info about Detroit Riverwalk Bike Trail
More info about Top 10 Bike Trails of Detroit
Planning Custom Rides with Detroit Bike Rentals
Creating your own cycling trip in Detroit has never been easier. If you’re using MoGo bike share, check out their partnership with ToTago Maps offering curated station-to-station routes. These clever pre-planned itineraries highlight interesting neighborhoods and landmarks, making exploration simple even if you’re new to the city.
The Detroit Greenways Coalition Map has become an essential resource for planning safe rides. This comprehensive guide shows all of Detroit’s bike lanes, trails, and greenways, helping you steer confidently from one neighborhood to the next.
More experienced cyclists often turn to Strava Heat Maps to find routes favored by local riders. These maps aggregate data from thousands of cyclists to reveal the most popular roads and paths – essentially letting you benefit from local knowledge even if you’re just visiting.
When crafting your own Detroit cycling trip, think about practical elements that make for an enjoyable ride. Be realistic about distance – Detroit’s flat terrain makes cycling easier, but you’ll still want to pace yourself, especially in summer heat. Plan your route around attractions you’re excited to visit, but also note spots where you can take breaks, refill water bottles, and securely park your bike during stops.
At Detroit Furnished Rentals, we love helping our guests find the city on two wheels. We provide custom cycling maps highlighting routes from our properties to popular attractions, making it easy to explore directly from your temporary home. Our guests particularly appreciate these insider tips that help them experience Detroit like a local, rather than following standard tourist paths.
Whether you’re cycling along the sparkling riverfront or finding hidden neighborhood gems, Detroit bike rentals offer the perfect blend of transportation and experience – letting you cover more ground than walking while staying connected to the city in a way that’s impossible from inside a car.
Safety, Gear & Frequently Asked Questions
Safety should be your top priority when using Detroit bike rentals. Following best practices and knowing what to expect will ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
When riding around Detroit, helmets are strongly recommended for all riders and actually required for those under 18. While Michigan law doesn’t mandate helmets for adults, your brain will certainly thank you for wearing one! All reputable rental shops provide helmets at no extra charge.
As a cyclist in Detroit, you’ll need to follow the same traffic laws as cars – stop at red lights, yield appropriately, and signal your turns. The good news is that Detroit’s 140+ miles of bike lanes make navigation much easier. Just remember to use hand signals to communicate with drivers and other cyclists, especially when turning or stopping.
Visibility matters too! If you’re planning to ride near sunset or after dark, make sure your bike has front and rear lights. Most overnight rentals include these, but it never hurts to double-check before heading out. And always, always lock your bike when not in use – even for those “just grabbing a coffee” moments. A lost lock typically incurs a $50 replacement fee at most rental locations.
Most Detroit bike rental shops equip you with the essentials – helmet and lock – but for maximum comfort, bring along a water bottle, wear weather-appropriate clothing (nothing fancy needed, just comfortable), apply sunscreen for longer rides, and consider a small backpack for personal items and snacks. Detroit summers can get warm, and staying hydrated makes all the difference between an awesome ride and an uncomfortable one.
What ID do I need for Detroit bike rentals?
When renting a bike in Detroit, you’ll need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license or passport. For quick rides (2 hours or less), this ID is typically all that’s required.
For longer rentals, especially multi-day trips, most rental shops will ask for a credit card authorization as security. This usually equals about half the bike’s replacement cost – not because they don’t trust you, but bikes are valuable equipment!
If you’re planning to rent bikes for the kids, riders under 18 can’t rent on their own. A parent or guardian must be present to sign the waiver and rental agreement. As one guest at our Detroit Furnished Rentals told me, “The process was super simple – I showed my license, signed the form, and we were off exploring Belle Isle within minutes!”
Can Detroit bike rentals be delivered to my hotel?
Absolutely! This convenient service has become increasingly popular, especially among our Detroit Furnished Rentals guests who want to start their trips right from their doorstep.
Many local bike rental services offer excellent delivery to vacation rentals, hotels, and event locations throughout the city. This option is particularly handy for corporate groups, wedding parties (what a fun pre-wedding activity!), family reunions, or conference attendees who want to explore between sessions.
The delivery service is comprehensive – they bring the bikes to you, provide on-site fitting to ensure comfort, offer a quick safety briefing, and even suggest routes based on your interests. When you’re finished, they’ll pick everything up from the same location.
I recently arranged bike deliveries for a group of tech professionals staying at our Brush Park properties. They had 12 bikes delivered for a team-building ride along the RiverWalk, followed by lunch at Eastern Market. Their feedback? “Having the bikes delivered saved us so much time and made the whole experience seamless.”
For group rentals, many providers can deliver up to 20 bikes for off-site events, though they typically require a 48-hour deposit to secure this service. It’s worth planning ahead!
Are there adaptive or accessible Detroit bike rentals?
Detroit’s cycling community prides itself on inclusivity, offering various adaptive options to ensure everyone can enjoy exploring on wheels.
MoGo’s Adaptive Bike Share Program stands out with their dedicated Adaptive MoGo station. They offer hand tricycles perfect for riders with limited lower-body mobility, upright cargo tricycles for those needing extra stability, two-person side-by-side bikes for shared riding experiences, and foot-powered recumbent bikes for a more reclined position. Their adaptive passes are remarkably affordable, ranging from $12 to $30 depending on duration.
Many local bike rental shops also offer several accessible options including adult tricycles (great for balance concerns), step-through frames (making mounting and dismounting much easier), cruisers with child carriers for parents with young children, and tag-along attachments for kids still mastering the art of cycling.
Robert, a guest at one of our Detroit Furnished Rentals who uses a wheelchair for longer distances but can pedal, shared his experience: “The hand tricycle from MoGo was perfect for exploring the RiverWalk. It gave me independence and allowed me to cover much more ground than I could have otherwise.”
If you have specific accessibility needs, I recommend calling your chosen rental provider ahead of time. They’re typically very accommodating and can ensure they have exactly what you need ready upon arrival. Detroit’s commitment to accessible cycling means that two wheels (or three!) are an option for almost everyone.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about exploring Detroit on two wheels. As you pedal along the RiverWalk with the Detroit skyline on one side and the shimmering river on the other, you’ll experience our city’s renaissance from a perspective that’s simply impossible from a car window.
Detroit bike rentals have truly come into their own in recent years. Whether you prefer the convenience of MoGo’s grab-and-go bike share stations scattered throughout downtown or the personalized service of a local shop like Wheelhouse Detroit, you’ll find options that perfectly match your needs and budget.
Our city’s largely flat terrain makes cycling accessible to nearly everyone, while our growing network of bike lanes (over 140 miles and counting!) ensures you can steer safely. The Detroit RiverWalk, Dequindre Cut, and Belle Isle offer scenic, car-free paths where you can relax and take in the sights at your own pace.
“I never expected Detroit to be such a bike-friendly city,” shared Marcus, a recent guest at one of our Detroit Furnished Rentals properties. “Having a MoGo station just two blocks from my apartment made it so easy to zip around downtown for meetings and then take longer rides on the weekends to explore neighborhoods I would have missed otherwise.”
At Detroit Furnished Rentals, we’re passionate about helping our guests experience the authentic Detroit. Many of our centrally located apartments offer secure bike storage, and we’ve intentionally chosen locations with easy access to bike rental options. Our team can help you plan cycling routes from your temporary home to Detroit’s must-see attractions, local favorite restaurants, and hidden gems.
Before you hop on your rented bike, remember these essentials:
- Book early during peak season (May-September) to ensure availability
- Consider your riding plans when choosing between bike share and shop rentals
- Always wear a helmet (included with most rentals) and follow traffic laws
- Lock your bike securely during stops (using the lock provided with your rental)
- Stay hydrated and plan routes with rest stops, especially on warm summer days
Cycling in Detroit isn’t just about transportation—it’s about connecting with our city in a more intimate way. You’ll notice the vibrant murals, smell the barbecue from neighborhood grills, hear the music spilling from open windows, and maybe even strike up conversations with fellow cyclists at red lights.
Plus, choosing to explore Detroit on two wheels is a sustainable choice that helps reduce carbon emissions while giving you a healthy way to burn off those extra calories from sampling Detroit’s amazing food scene!
Ready to experience Detroit from the saddle? Book your stay with Detroit Furnished Rentals and we’ll help you plan the perfect two-wheeled trip. Your Detroit story starts now!
