Location and Hours
Adaptive BIKETOWN operates out of Kerr Bikes, the big red barn just north of OMSI along the Eastbank Esplanade. Please note that online reservations are required during the off-season and strongly encouraged at all other times of the year. Reservations ensure there is sufficient time for bike fittings, which can vary greatly from person to person. Feel free to call for reservations as well:
Kerr Bikes & Boats
1945 SE Water Ave.
Portland, OR 97214
503-802-5271
Hours:
Off-season (November - February):By reservation only
Cycling season (March - October):Reservations strongly encouraged
OPEN: Thursday - Monday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
CLOSED: Tuesday - Wednesday
Adaptive BIKETOWN online reservations
How to ride Adaptive BIKETOWN
Either booking ahead during the off-season or dropping in during cycling, you'll be able to find the bike that best fits your needs. Things to keep in mind:
- All 1-hour rentals are FREE if you identify as someone living with a disability or if for any other reason you are not able to ride a traditional two-wheeled bicycle.
- There is a BIKETOWN bike-share station just outside of the Adaptive BIKETOWN facility, perfect for a group rides.
Learn more about different types of bikes on Adaptive BIKETOWN's website here.
Check out additional adaptive bicycling resources here.
Pricing
- 1 hour or less: FREE for eligible riders
- 1-2 hours: $5 total
- 4 hours: $7 total
- Full-day rental (up to 24 hours): $24
History of Adaptive BIKETOWN
BIKETOWN has partnered with Kerr Bikes to provide an extensive collection of adaptive bikes.
Following the BIKETOWN launch in 2016, PBOT received two requests for accessible accommodation within its BIKETOWN bike-share system. In response, PBOT interviewed Portlanders with disabilities, organizations serving people with disabilities, bike-share systems in other cities, and city staff about the formulation of an accessible bike-share pilot program.
In the summer of 2016, PBOT attended the Adaptive Bicycle Clinic, Wheel Connect (an event sponsored by Oregon Spinal Cord Injury Connection), and Insight's Summer HandCycling Series.
Interviewees almost universally expressed a desire and/or need for a staffed service that could assist riders in transferring from their mobility devices to the adaptive bikes, as well as a safe storage site for mobility devices. Because of the safety concerns of riding in auto traffic, and a primary interest in exercise and recreation, people wanted to use adaptive bicycles to ride on trails or paths without motor vehicles. At this time, the intent is to focus on adaptive cycle rentals through existing bike rental businesses located on or in close proximity to non-motorized trails.
FAQ
Do I have to have a disability to try an adaptive bike? Anyone, with or without a disability, who identifies as someone who cannot ride a traditional two-wheel bike can ride adaptive bikes at Adaptive BIKETOWN for free for an hour.
Is there storage for mobility devices while renting adaptive bikes? Yes, you can store your mobility device at the Adaptive BIKETOWN location at Kerr Bikes & Boats.
How will I know if the Adaptive BIKETOWN bikes will fit my specific needs? Adaptive BIKETOWN has a storefront just north of OMSI staffed by people trained to fit you to adaptive bikes. Unlike other BIKETOWN bike-share rental, adaptive bikes are stored in a secure building, reservations are required before renting, and a person is there to help you through your experience.
Does Adaptive BIKETOWN have electric-assist bikes? Yes. Adaptive BIKETOWN's website lists available electric-assist bikes here under the heading "Electric Assist Bikes."
Where can I rent adaptive bikes for longer than Adaptive BIKETOWN allows? Adaptive BIKETOWN bikes can be rented for up to a week, depending on availability. Longer term adaptive bike rentals are currently available through Adaptive Sports Northwest.
How can I stay up to date on the latest Adaptive BIKETOWN news and happenings? You can sign up for the Adaptive BIKETOWN newsletter (be sure to select Adaptive BIKETOWN from the list of newsletter topics).