New to Golden? Just visiting? Or maybe you just need some ideas where to ride. Below are two maps that may help. Happy biking!
What is a bike library, you ask?…
It is a bike share program, where visitors, residents, local employees and students can “check-out” a bike for a limited time for local use. The program runs from April through October and provides adult and children’s bikes through a check-out system located in the Visitor Center. Golden’s Bike Library is stocked with Jamis bikes —24-speed Explorer 2 and the Laser 20, a lightweight and durable aluminum model with a coaster brake and a rear V-brake ideal for small children. Snag a bike for local trips, employment meetings and recreation, or to link to public transportation.
Where is it and how does it work?
Visit the Golden Bike Library at its downtown location in the Golden Visitors Center. Bikes are available to check-out Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The first two hours are free; those looking to rent for longer periods pay just $10 per day and may utilize a convenient key-drop box to return bikes after hours. Riders are required to sign a waiver and those under 18 must have a parent signature. A valid ID and credit card is required for rentals.
Bikes come equipped with a lock and helmets are encouraged. Riders receive a Golden Ticket and reusable water bottle with each bike rental.
For riders looking to make a reservation in advance or looking to reserve a bike at one of the two satellite locations, reservations are available online. Due to demand, the bike library has increased its fleet of bicycles to 60 bikes. For those new to Golden, suggested routes, maps, and other Golden information is available at the Visitor’s Center location and online.
What kind of bikes are available?
The Golden Bike Library currently features Jamis Bikes’ adult Explorer2 and youth Laser20.
Explorer2
The Explorer is one of Jamis’ best-selling bikes. Originally designed as a mountain bike, the Explorer has since evolved into a very practical and comfortable sport comfort bike. The newest generation Explorer is all about getting the most fun out of the ride, in STYLE, with performance and comfort features that make getting around so effortless it hardly feels like exercise.
Laser20
The Laser20 is the perfect bike for youth to explore Golden.
Features:
• Lightweight & durable aluminum Laser frame.
• Two types of brakes: a standard rear coaster brake, which most youngsters are familiar with, and a rear V-brake which many are not. Having the rear coaster brake as a back-up, allows youngsters to get used to hand-braking without going cold-turkey on the coaster brake they are comfortable with.
• Wheels with 36 spokes in a 3-cross lacing pattern for a strong & durable wheel. Then mount knobby BMX tires that bite in the dirt, but also feature a rounded profile that rolls smoothly on neighborhood streets & driveways.
• Every Laser 2.0 offers a kickstand for parking that pride & joy up securely, and a safety bell to announce that the Laser has arrived.
Trip Planning with Way To Go
When you choose to bike or walk to work, you are making a healthy choice for both you and your bank account. Biking and walking between work and home is absolutely free and gives you time and fresh air to clear your head. The added exercise has proven to make people more productive and energized throughout their day. That’s a great bonus for you and the environment as you take another vehicle off the road. So, if you live within striking distance of work, try it! Way to Go can help you find the best bike paths and pedestrian-friendly routes in just minutes. Visit mywaytogo.org to find the best option for you. You’ll save more, exercise more and smile more.
