Point Ruston Cycle Rentals

Point Ruston is the newer waterfront neighbourhood at the north end of Ruston Way, built on the site of a former smelter. It is a lively cluster of apartments, shops, restaurants and a promenade, and it is one of the best places to start a ride along the bay. The rental option here is a bit different from the usual bike shop: surreys and specialty cycles that let groups, couples and families share a seat and pedal together. A surrey is a four-wheeled pedal vehicle with a canopy and a bench seat, usually accommodating several people, and it is as much fun to look at as to ride. Specialty cycles may include tandems, trikes or other novelty bikes that appeal to people who want something more social than a single-rider bicycle. The flat waterfront path is a good match, because there are no big hills and the views change constantly across the bay. Rentals are typically hourly, which makes them easy to fit around lunch or a walk. Ride toward Point Defiance for a quieter stretch with more trees, or head the other way toward Old Town for more restaurants. The path is shared with walkers and runners, so riding slowly is the norm, and the whole experience feels more like a relaxed outing than exercise.

Check availability and any weight, age or helmet requirements when you reserve. Weekends in summer are busy, so book ahead or arrive early. Weather affects the rental schedule too, and high winds or heavy rain can reduce the fun, so have a back-up plan such as a museum visit or a cafe stop.

This activity suits families with children of mixed ages, groups of friends and couples who like novelty. It is less ideal for serious cyclists who want to cover distance, for whom a standard bike rental and a ride to Point Defiance Park would be better. The surreys sit close to the ground and can be tiring on the legs if you ride too long, so choose a shorter loop if the group is not used to pedalling.

A good itinerary is to rent a surrey for an hour in the late afternoon, ride the path past the piers and parks, stop for photographs at the water, and then settle into dinner along the waterfront. Because the path is flat and wide, it is also a good way to introduce small children to riding. Remember to bring sunscreen or a jacket depending on the day, and a bottle of water.

As the product is a rental rather than a tour, you are free to set your own pace and route. Many riders ride out to a favourite bench or pier, stop for ice cream or a drink and then return before the rental period ends. Keep an eye on the clock so that you do not rush on the way back, and let walkers pass at the narrow sections. Photographers will appreciate the way the surrey makes a charming foreground for pictures of the bay, and the operator can usually suggest the best spots.