Description
Bikeisready Bike Rental is a handy spot for exploring Amsterdam on two wheels. Step into the shop and the friendly staff will help you find a bike and get your ride around the city underway.
I remember my first visit to Bikeisready: the smell of rubber tires and rows of gleaming bikes brought back memories of childhood rides. The owner, a jovial Dutchman with a bushy mustache, told me about Amsterdam’s cycling culture while helping me choose a bike.
Bikeisready has a wide range of bicycles, from sturdy city bikes for cruising along the canals to sportier models for longer rides into the countryside. They’ve even got tandem bikes if you’re feeling romantic. And if you’re traveling with little ones, you can rent child seats and kids’ bikes too.
They take quality and safety seriously. The staff maintain and check each bike before renting it out, and provide helmets, locks, and maps to help you get started.
Key Features
At Bikeisready, you’re not just renting a bike; you’re getting a chance to see Amsterdam like a local. A few features make this shop stand out:
1. Diverse Fleet: From classic Dutch bikes to electric models, there’s something for everyone. I was especially taken with the colorful vintage-style bikes, which make for great photos.
2. Flexible Rental Options: Whether you need a bike for a few hours or a few weeks, Bikeisready can help. They also offer early-morning and late-night pickups for early risers and night owls.
3. Guided Tours: Not sure about navigating Amsterdam’s busy streets? You can join a guided tour led by a local. It’s a good way to see some less obvious spots and hear about the city’s history along the way.
4. Repair Service: Flat tire or loose chain? Bikeisready offers quick repairs to get you back on the road. I once had a minor problem with my bike’s gears, and the team fixed it before I could say “stroopwafel”!
5. Multilingual Staff: The team speaks several languages, so international visitors can get the information they need. That’s a relief when you’re trying to explain gear shifting in broken Dutch.
6. Customizable Bikes: Need a basket for shopping or a child seat? Bikeisready can customize your rental bike to suit your needs.
7. Local Tips: The staff are happy to share their favorite cycling routes and local tips. Their advice led me to a charming little cafe in the Jordaan that I wouldn’t have found otherwise.
Best Time to Visit
When’s the best time to visit Amsterdam? There’s no bad time to explore the city by bike, but each season has its own feel. Here’s my take:
Spring (April to May): This is my favorite time to visit. Tulips bloom across the city, the weather is usually mild, and you’ll beat the summer crowds. Bring a rain jacket, though; the occasional spring shower is part of the Dutch experience.
Summer (June to August): Summer’s a lovely time to explore Amsterdam, though you’ll share the bike lanes with plenty of other visitors. Long daylight hours leave more time for cycling, picnics in the park, and dining outdoors by the canals. Book your bike rental in advance, as it’s peak season.
Fall (September to November): Cycling through Amsterdam as the leaves turn golden has its own charm. The crowds thin out, and you can enjoy the cozy “gezellig” atmosphere the Dutch are known for. Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Winter (December to March): Don’t let the cold put you off. Twinkling lights reflect on the canals, and if temperatures drop enough, you might even get to skate. A hot chocolate after a brisk ride is hard to beat. Days are shorter, so dress in layers and plan accordingly.
How to Get There
Bikeisready is easy to reach from around Amsterdam. The shop is in the city center, and you’ve got a few ways to get there:
By Foot
If you’re already in the city center, you can walk to Bikeisready. It’s a stone’s throw from Dam Square, and the walk is a nice chance to take in Amsterdam’s streets. Follow your nose (and maybe a map) and you’ll be there in no time.
By Public Transport
Amsterdam’s public transport makes it easy to get around. Take tram lines 2, 11, or 12 and hop off at the Dam Square stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the shop. You can also take metro line 52 to Rokin station, then walk a few minutes.
By Taxi or Uber
If you’re coming from further away or carrying lots of luggage, a taxi or Uber can drop you at the doorstep. Just keep in mind that traffic in the city center can get hectic, especially during rush hour.
From Centraal Station
Arriving by train? Bikeisready is about a 15-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Head south on Damrak, then look for the shop just off Dam Square. It’s a pleasant walk and a first taste of the city’s energy.
From Schiphol Airport
Coming straight from the airport? Take the train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal Station. Trains run every 10-15 minutes, and the journey takes about 20 minutes. From there, follow the directions above.
Pro tip: Download a map of Amsterdam to your phone before you arrive. The concentric canals can make the city layout a bit confusing, and you don’t want to end up going in circles (trust me, I’ve been there!).
