The Handlebar Story
Got Questions?
FAQs
About Our Tours
What kind of bikes do you have?
We use 8-speed analog dutch style Pure City bikes. We have class 3 Velotric Fold E-bikes available for $25. During booking you can request an E-bike in “Add-ons”. We also have a limited number of Retrospec kids bikes.
Do you have kids bikes?
Yes, we have a limited number of kids bikes and helmets. Sized 24″ seat to feet on the ground. Be advised we will ride in traffic, on city streets, on every tour. Your child should be able to ride single file in a group, follow the rules of traffic, for up to 7 miles. We love kids and want to make sure they’re safe. E-mail us to request child’s bike. hello@handlebarbiketours.com
How long are the bike tours?
Most of our Downtown LA bike tours are 2-3 hours, covering 6-8 miles. We designed the tours for people who ride a bike occasionally for recreation. We move at a slow to medium pace, and most guests are surprised when they hear the mileage they’ve covered. Our “Express” tours are shorter in duration, about 1.2 hours, covering 3 miles.
I'm a solo traveler; do you cancel tours without enough bookings?
No, we have done plenty of tours with just one guest. We are not like other companies that cancel a tour because it isn’t financially ideal. We are travelers and respect your time and trip planning. We’re not going to ruin your plans because we’re not making a profit. Maybe that makes Handlebar Bike Tours bad business people, but we figure we’ll make money later when our guests tell others about the great time they had on their surprise private tour!
Is biking safe in Downtown Los Angeles?
Absolutely; we time our bike tours for low traffic periods, choose bike routes based on their bike-ability and adhere to clear protocols consistently communicated to guests by our amplified guides. There will be NO bombing through intersections, or fast risky moves. Downtown’s pedestrian improvements and traffic calming measures make it more accommodating for cyclists. All Handlebar Bike Guides are experienced city cyclists and First Aid certified. Guests often comment on how safe they feel on our tours.
How many stops on the tour?
Each tour has 10-12 narrated stops, of 5 minutes. We also provide an off bike break for you to explore a bit on your own on every tour. Plus our guides are amplified, no straining to hear. Our “Express” tour has less stops, but also includes an off bike break.
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes, as long as it is in good repair, but you don’t need to, we have different size bikes to fit most.
Is there some place I can put my stuff?
Yes, we have locked luggage storage available during your tour, although we assume no liability. The bikes are equipped with small handlebar bags for wallets/phones etc., and racks on the back for larger bags.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes, our stylish Bell helmets will have you looking cool. Plus we clean them thoroughly after each use with an organic eucalyptus disinfectant and Clorox wipes. We replace helmets every 6 months.
Are there age requirements?
Yes, participants must be a minimum of 8 years of age. Younger guests should be familiar with the rules of traffic, and able to ride in a straight line with a group. We have a limited number of kids bikes with 24″ seat to feet ratio.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes, all participants must sign a Waiver and Release of Liability Agreement. Online booking handles this digitally before your tour.
Booking
What happens after I book, can I reschedule?
You will receive a confirmation email, that contains a link for you to reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours prior to your tour, or you can shoot us an email and we can do it for you.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking online ahead of time is best. Some tours do not book up, and we will not schedule a guide, and cancel the tour time for unreserved tours. Therefore to guarantee a tour time book ahead. Online booking is available up to-1-hour prior to the start of a scheduled tour. We do not cancel tours booked ahead of time regardless of participant numbers.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 24 hours or more in advance receive a full refund. After that 24-hour window, the full tour price is forfeited.
On Tour Day
What happens if it rains or is too hot?
For health and safety, tours do not take place if the temperature exceeds 95°F/35°C or if it is raining at tour time. We update tour viability via email 1 hour prior. In these cases, full refunds are automatically issued.
Where do we meet?
All tours start and end at Grand Central Market; look for our “Tour Meets Here” sign on Hill St. sidewalk. Use 312 S. Hill St. Los Angeles California 90013 for map apps. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time.
Parking
The cheapest and closest all-day parking lot is at the corner of Hill and 3rd St. The outdoor parking lot is usually $10. There are several other outdoor lots along Hill St. $10-$20. Parking in Grand Central Market’s garage is $28. Pro-tip: if it’s a Sunday, meters and yellow loading zones are free!
How far are you from the Metro?
We are less than a block from the Metro Red Line Pershing Square stop, 4th St. exit.
Do I need to print a ticket?
No need to print a ticket, just arrive at our “Tour Meets Here” sandwich board on Hill St. and enjoy your tour!
Ready to ride?
Lock in your date and join the adventure.
Our Mission: A different way to experience L.A.
We didn’t start Handlebar Bike Tours to be another tourist attraction. We started it because we were tired of seeing visitors trapped on buses, missing the vibrant street art of the Arts District, the smell of ramen wafting through Little Tokyo, and the architectural marvels hidden in plain sight in the birthplace of Los Angeles, downtown.
All tours are meticulously planned and researched, but we don’t recite worn out speeches. We want every tour to feel like you’ve got a friend in LA showing you around on an urban bike adventure. This is why we keep the tour groups to 8 max. We aim to provide every guest with an eco-friendly personalized Los Angeles experience.
Why Dutch Cruisers?
Our 8-speed dutch cruisers are more than just bikes; they are a tribute to an era of craftsmanship. They keep you upright for sight-seeing, they look incredible, and they’re easy to ride. We also have E-bikes available as an add-on to your tour.
Looking for a Private Route?
We host corporate retreats, team building, and custom groups.
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