Backyard Bike Shop - Longboat Key, Florida

John L.

We had an absolutely great experience at Backyard Bike Shop today. We met the owner late in day and we got two bikes with helmets and a basket for $20 for 2 hours. He was friendly and personable and we can't say enough about this business (except that he probably should charge more for such a great service 🙂 )

Kevin W.

We recently rented two bikes from Charlie at the Backyard Bike Shop. (Longboat Key) Included combination lock and removable handlebar basket (super practical) for each bike. Excellent value and very friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Great area to cycle and explore.

I highly recommend Backyard Bike Shops if you're in Longboat Key.

Terry B.

I stopped by to rent a bike for a week in January. During an earlier visit, I checked to see what types of bikes they carried. I was told that I couldn't reserve a specific bike in advance, but it looked like there should be something that would work for me when I came back, as there was quite a large inventory on hand. My primary ride at home is a hybrid that leans toward road bike. When I arrived this time, there really wasn't anything quite close to what I was looking for. I did end up taking off on an older hybrid-ish bike that initially had a seat the size of a pie pan, but was swapped out for a smaller seat. After riding over the weekend with it, there was considerable slipping when I would take off from a stop - enough to make it very difficult to ride. Back on Monday I went. I suspected a problem with the derailleur, and that was indeed the issue. I asked if it could be repaired/replaced, but was told "pick out another bike". There were many bikes on hand, but looking over them, most looked like what someone might want to rent for a casual/slow ride for a few hours: older bikes, vertical seating position, large seat, etc. Just about to throw up my hands, I spotted a hybrid similar enough to what I hoped for. I took a couple slow circles around the parking lot and proclaimed it good enough. The problem arose a couple miles down the road when I realized the back brakes were about 95% non functional (that might be generous). After a closer inspection, I could see that the back pads were worn flat. I guess I would have hoped that this type of thing would be checked out before allowing a customer to take off on the bike, as this is clearly a safety issue. When I arrived back the next morning, the owner was just opening. When I pointed out the issue with the brakes and asked if he could flip a new set on, he told me "I don't have time, pick out another bike". I see a pattern now - "pick out another bike" is apparently the regular response. I told him that this bike was working good for me, but just needed the brakes repaired (10 minute job). He just stared at me and said "all good"? Well, no, not all good. I ended up riding it back to my place and swapped the somewhat functional pads on the front to the rear, to at least make it rideable. Thankfully, I had a couple bike tools with me, and was able to do this. Overall, just a frustrating experience, as I don't think my request to fix the brakes was unreasonable.
I guess that if you are considering renting a bike from here, your experience will likely depend on your expectations. Mine were likely higher than the average person that might be looking for a slow casual ride. But that aside, I was still surprised to find that both bikes that I rode had an issue with their performance and safety, and the answer seems to be "pick out another bike"

Pascal K.

I was looking for a roadbike during our stay on AMI. Backyard Bike Shop had a Specialized Allez for me, which worked well for my 40mile trip to Sarasota and back. The shop is run by lovely people. Give it a try if you are around town or on Anna Maria Island. Would definitely recommend!

Lock and helmet was included in the rental. They only accept cash and checks. No credit or debit-card!

Jo M.

I stopped into Backyard Bike Shop with some friends. I asked the mechanic if he could fix grinding gears on my bike. He was obviously very busy but stopped what he was doing and made a quick adjustment that solved the problem. I received great customer service and would highly recommend this bike shop for rentals or repairs.

Ben S.

Owner is very nice, explained to us all the options we have on renting a bike. Prices are more than fair. Highly recommend if you want to bike around longboat key.

Scott H.

As a business owner I can fully appreciate how well organised their shop and they are working together. The workmanship and cost Work hand-in-hand. Especially on an island of Longboat Key I would expect the prices to be up besides 30% more than what they charge. Very reasonable and Looking forward to Break something else on my bike so I can go and see them. The 2 of them work together Perfectly and the review conceived the respect between the 2 of them. You won't be disappointed And they keep their rental bikes in tip top shape. Think you, Scott Hammond.

Barbara R.

We’ve been renting bikes from Backyard since 2017, a few times a year for a week each time. Very reasonably priced, decent selection to choose from and easy pick up and drop off. Just remember they only accept cash or checks, no cards. They also include a lock, basket and helmet if you choose.