It would seem that way, wouldn't it? But Las Vegas, in fact, isn't particularly bicycle- or moped-friendly.
The short answer is: Las Vegas is built for automobiles.
Especially in and around the tourist areas, there are few bike lanes. Actually, although not illegal, cyclists are discouraged from riding on the Strip, according to local bike-shop staff, because there’s generally no room for them. As you’ll undoubtedly notice, Las Vegas Boulevard is often jam-packed. Riding a bike on the Strip (or any busy street in Las Vegas) is a dangerous proposition at best. And riding on the sidewalk is fraught with no less hazard, given the amount of foot traffic. If you know your way around the parking lots and back streets, you have a better chance of remaining safe, while getting to and from where you're going with some alacrity. A handful of Strip employees do commute to work by bike. But as a visitor, you'll have to do a fair amount of trial and error riding to figure out the best routes.
In addition, you’d think that bike and moped rentals would be readily accessible and inexpensive. Think again. Surprisingly, the rates for bicycle rental are comparable to or even exceed the cost of renting a car, while it seems as if the only moped rental place we knew of (Sin City Scooters) is no longer in business. Bike rentals start at $28 per day at www.lasvegascyclery.com and hotel delivery is $15 each way to the Strip or $20 to downtown. At Las Vegas Procyclery, located at 7034 W. Charleston Ave., prices start at $40 per day and they don't deliver. For more information call 702/228-9460 or visit their Web site at www.procylery.com.
A tactic espoused by an advantage player and Vegas expert we know, when he visits from Texas: Visit a local thrift store or pawn shop and buy a used bike for about 25 bucks. Get a chain and lock for another $15 from Wal-Mart (or better yet, bring them from home with you) and, for a mere $40 (or less), you’ll have cheap transportation for the duration of your stay. Leave the bike in a conspicuous spot for someone else or give it directly to someone who appears to be in need before you leave; your benefactor will certainly appreciate your generosity.
There’s a Goodwill thrift store on Maryland Parkway across from UNLV (east of the Strip) and a Super Pawn at Desert Inn and Valley View (west of it). Check the local Yellow Pages for other listings.
