Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals and Tours

Blazing Saddles is a family-owned bike rental and tour company that has been operating for more than 40 years. In San Francisco it has several shops around Fisherman's Wharf, including its location at 2715 Hyde Street, which opens daily at 8am, and branches at Pier 41 and 721 Beach Street, which open at 9am. The shops are open 365 days a year, including holidays, and late-night bike drop-off is available.

The classic trip is to bike the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito. The ride crosses the bridge, where cyclists have their own walkway at set times, and continues to Sausalito on the Marin side of the Golden Gate. It is a memorable way to see the bridge up close, and it suits active couples, families with older children and groups of friends. If you would rather not ride all the way back, ask the staff about return options when you collect your bikes.

You can explore independently with a rental or join a guided tour. Every rental includes a helmet, a lock and a custom map, and a free mobile app helps with navigation. For those who want company and commentary, guided tours and packages for groups come with professional, licensed guides and en-route assistance, and private group activities can be arranged on request.

Electric bikes are a big part of the offer. The company says it has the largest fleet of e-bikes and describes its staff as electric bike specialists, with all sizes available. An e-bike makes San Francisco's hills and the climb up to the bridge much easier, so it is worth considering if you are not a regular cyclist.

Practical tips: start early to avoid the busiest times on the bridge paths, wear layers and bring a windproof jacket, as conditions on the bridge can be cold and gusty, and carry water and sunscreen. Remember that cyclists share some paths with pedestrians, so ride carefully and follow the signs on the bridge. Book ahead in summer and at weekends to secure the bike type you want, and call the shop if you have questions about routes or group bookings.