Cycling enthusiasts in Greater Lansing or those who simply enjoy a leisurely pedal may be surprised to hear that the happiest biking experience on earth isn't thousands of miles away but right in their own back yard.
At the end of May,
JoyRide Pedal Tours opened one of the area's first party bike businesses. The pedal-operated trolley seats up to 15 people as well as a company employee who steers and oversees navigation. Passengers sit on stools on either side of a long wooden bar and provide the pedal power while enjoying non-alcohol beverages during a two-hour tour.
"I thought this would be a great addition to draw people to our capital city and to enjoy our entertainment sector and the arts," says Molly Chan, the owner and founder of JoyRide Pedal Tours. "It's something different. It gives you a chance to get together with people you enjoy. And you can go to places that you might not visit otherwise."
JoyRide Pedal Tours offers tours of breweries, restaurants, art galleries or area landmarks in Lansing, East Lansing and Williamston. Tours depart from the
Harrison Roadhouse,
Lansing Brewing Co., and
Old Nation Brewing. Passengers can hop on and hop off at select destinations to stretch, see the sights, or enjoy food and drink along the two-hour route.
Pedalers can take both public and private tours, or can customize routes for wedding parties, work or social groups, or reunions. Other upcoming concepts include specialized tours for foodies, gardening enthusiasts, and progressive parties for neighborhood associations. "Spin dating" events will invite singles to mix and mingle at a particular location, then go out for a short pedal ride. Fitness enthusiasts may also enjoy the intensity of upcoming "spin classes" that depart from designated health and wellness clubs
"I like to think we have something for everyone," says Chan. "We target all generations from 18 on up. We're trying to think outside the box and create special events and special moments for you and your friends. That's what life is all about."
JoyRide Pedal Tours will be open from May through October. Tours average $250 to $350 for 90-minute to two-hour rides and can be reserved or customized by phone or website. JoyRide operates with two bikes imported from the Netherlands, and employs about 10 staff.
Source: Molly Chan, Owner, JoyRide Pedal Tours
Writer: Ann Kammerer, News Editor
Got a story idea for Innovation News? Email Ann Kammerer here.
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