If you love getting outdoors and riding your bike, then you’ve come to the right place. Lake Havasu is a mecca for bike enthusiasts! Great riding trails, beautiful world-class scenery, sunny blue skies, and comfortable temperatures—especially this time of year—but nothing can put a damper on that great bike ride than an unneeded mechanical problem. The good news is that giving your bike a quick safety check before heading out can make or break your day. Sure, flats happen, but these quick tips can make your ride enjoyable and uneventful:
— Always clean and lube the chain, gears, and derailleurs. How did the bike shift the last time you were out for a ride? Early detection can prevent a major breakdown.
–Check chain stretch and the condition of the gear sprockets.
–Check tail light to make sure it works and the batteries aren’t corroding. Replace batteries on a regular basis.
–Check all cables and brake pads (or disks). Make sure both front and rear brakes are working properly.
–Inspect your tires, check for proper inflation.
–If your last ride was off road and/or bumpy, make sure all connections are tight.
–Take a tire patch kit and pump with you on your ride.
–Always have water on hand and stay hydrated
Riding in Havasu has many challenges, and even greater rewards. From simple, level loop rides to challenging off road rides that only the most daring will attempt, there’s enough variety to attract all levels of bike rider from novice to expert. You could even consider bringing your electric bicycles to the lake if you wanted to experience the Island that way. However, if you’re new to Havasu or just visiting, you could even try out a new bike you’ve just purchased or rented. Head out to the Island and give the Island Trail Loop a quick ride. Here are a few details you need to know:
Island Trail
This is a paved, 3.6-mile loop that runs around the interior of the Island. It is also used by pedestrians. It is ideal for those looking for a nice, relaxing ride. The very level and paved path provides the perfect scenario for beginner’s and experienced alike. The awe-inspiring landscapes are everywhere and the lake is never far from view. You can cruise this pathway in as little as 15 minutes or take a leisurely, 40-minute ride. Parking is available at the northwest corner of McCulloch Blvd. and Beachcomber Blvd. Cyclists are required to follow the path clockwise while walkers/runners follow it counter-clockwise for safety reasons, as posted.
Mountain biking is also popular in Havasu and SARA Park has numerous trails with various levels of difficulty. Some of these trails lead to mountaintop views while others end at the shores of tucked away bays on the lake. While many communities boast bike trails and tout their accessibility by bicycle, Havasu is one of the few communities that can promote bike riding year-round. Our propensity for blue skies and fair weather makes this area a rider’s paradise. If you would like to learn more and print out maps of the more popular rides in Lake Havasu, please visit www.golakehavasu.com.