With May being National bike month, my friend and I decided to do some hands-on research for the article and actually take a ride. Since neither of us own bikes, we considered borrowing or renting. Most of the people we know that own bikes are under the age of 10, so we chose the rental route. We ended up renting two bikes from River Rat on Pennsylvania Avenue in Fair Oaks. The customer service was excellent, and Jordan was knowledgeable, personable, and didn’t mind helping out two very inexperienced riders. The rates were extremely reasonable, the bikes are kept in great condition, and the location couldn’t have been better (the American River bike trail is literally down the street). The $8 per hour rental included the helmet.

I actually had fun, I was not sure how I would do because it has been 13 years since I have ridden a bike, but I made it and would do it again. The American River bike trail spans from Folsom Lake to Discovery Park in Sacramento. There are several places along the 26 mile trail to enter and exit with parking available.

I was very excited to see bathrooms, drinking fountains and “adopt a trail” signs throughout the bike trail. It is a great place for families to walk, ride bikes, and rollerblade. All levels of enthusiasts were taking part of the beautiful weather we had this particular Saturday morning and the avid riders, the ones with the “real cycle gear,” were very patient with us amateurs. It didn’t take us long to learn that “on your left”, meant they were passing. Our gear-shifting technique and leg strength need a little more practice before we’ll be the ones passing.

The scenery gives you opportunity stop thinking so much and just enjoy life. There are a number of places along the way for picnics, reading, resting, and beautiful settings for those perfect Kodak moments. Maybe you’re not an avid bike rider like me but I do recommend that you try it at least once. It will be a good memory and might even be the beginning of a new habit.

It was great that you could rent by the hour or all day. I am thankful for the experience and am looking forward to river rafting. In honor of National Bike Month, we suggest you pick a day or two in May to bike with your friends, your spouse, your children or your iPod. You might like it so much you extend it through summer. Remember your helmet!