TBE resumes bicycle rentals post-hurricane
After losing its fleet due to Hurricane Ian, Tarpon Bay Explorers announced that bike rentals have returned to its list of activities for exploring the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
“We actually didn’t physically lose any of our bikes as a result of Ian, surprisingly,” TBE General Manager Adam Sauerland said. “But after saltwater exposure and days and weeks of sitting, the bikes’ gears and brakes seized up from all of the corrosion.”
“One silver lining for the bikes that were drowned by Ian is that they were briefly used by a lot of folks, including locals and emergency services, coming to the island to help out,” he added. “Our bikes were found all over the island.”
The team has been waiting for the right time and demand on the island to relaunch the fleet.
“We’ve received a lot of phone calls asking for rentals,” Sauerland said. “The island and its recovery are getting stronger and stronger every day, so we are really hoping for a strong end to 2024 and hope to carry that momentum into 2025.”
The rentals are single-speed beach cruisers for adults and children. For smaller children, the fleet includes Weehoos — which are modified Trail-A-Bikes — bike trailers and baby seats.
All rentals are offered on a first come, first serve basis.
The refuge’s concession, TBE offers rentals, activities and a nature-themed gift shop. Hours are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with rentals stopping at 3 p.m.
For more information or reservations, visit www.tarponbayexplorers.com or call 239-472-8900.
TBE is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.