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FAQ's
The Basics
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes. Same-day availability is never guaranteed; it is sometimes available. Reserving lets me prep your bikes and, if needed, route them via freight to Block Island.
How do I get the bikes?
Two ways:
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Point Judith pickup at my shop before you board the traditional ferry. E-bike round-trip ticket must be purchased in advance or at the ticket window on the day of travel. (~$18 per bike)
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I'll ship by Block Island Ferry Freight—I send them over, and you pick up on-island at the freight office. +$25 per bike round trip! 100% Hassle-free!
I’m coming from Montauk / New London / Newport / flying in from Westerly. Can I still rent?
Yep. The freight option is built for you. Call ahead so we can coordinate!
How can I make a reservation?!
Call or email me directly! I keep this personal on purpose—no clunky online booking or lost reservations here! If I don’t pick up, leave a voicemail. If you don’t hear back within 24 hours, call again. I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Same deal with email: if a full day passes—or your travel time is getting close—call, call, call.
Phone: (847) 257-3933
Email: Ben@blockislandebike.com
What's included with my rental?
An e-bike, helmet, lock, and a medium-large saddlebag or two for essentials. (Chargers are also provided for overnight rentals.)
The Costs
What's the cost?
The current fall special rate is $89 per bike for the day! Multi-day and group discounts are available. Call me!
Is there a deposit?
In most cases, a $10 per-bike deposit will be collected as part of the reservation process and applied to your total at checkout. In some cases, this may not be deemed necessary.
Other costs associated with transporting via traditional ferry
Electric bikes are currently $18.33 for one round-trip ticket on the traditional ferry from Point Judith. You will need 1 of these for each bike you plan to bring on board. In most cases, they can be purchased at the window day of travel, but I typically recommend you purchase them in advance if possible!
Other costs associated with transporting the bikes via freight
The cost to freight one electric bike is $25 for the round-trip. I will handle drop-off at the Point Judith freight office in the morning and will collect the bikes when they return. I only ask that you return the bikes to the Block Island freight office and give them my name and phone number. In most cases, the ticket will already be paid for. If we ask you to pay for the freight one way, we obviously won't double charge you.
The Bikes & Safety
Who can ride? (age/skill/height/weight)
Riders must be 16+ and already comfortable on a bicycle! Assume these bikes are taller and heavier than your bike at home! This IS NOT the place to learn to ride a bicycle or to get back on the seat for the first time in a decade! If I sense that you are not going to be able to operate the bicycle safely, you will be kindly asked to reconsider. In most cases, adult riders should be at least 4'11" and at most roughly 7' tall. Riders can weigh no more than ~350lbs. We cannot guarantee you will fit comfortably, but we will do our best to accommodate you! Check out this page on measuring your bike inseam, or call if you have any concerns!
Do we get a tutorial or safety briefing?
Yes! If you're departing via Point Judith, arrange to stop at my shop before you board. In most cases, I have extra bikes available that we can demo even if your bikes for the day have already been freighted over! If you won't be coming through Point Judith, I'll text you a safety video and tutorial! Just like if you were at the shop!
Are helmets required?
Absolutely! They are included and provided. However, if you have your own helmet, bring it in! In most cases, you can just use your own!
How fast do the bikes go?
The bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph. However, most people spend most of their time cruising between 8-12 mph. You control the assist; we encourage mellow, courteous riding - especially through town.
What's the range?
Plan on ~25–45 miles per charge depending on hills, wind, rider weight, and what level of assist you primarily use. Plenty for a full island day with smart riding.
Do you have child seats or passenger options?
Yes! We have a limited quantity of Thule Yepp Maxi child seats for little ones and a bench seat attachment available for older kids or adults! Call for more info!
Baskets, racks, water?
Bikes come with rear racks and a medium-large saddlebag. Some models have front basket options—ask when you book. Currently, there are no water bottle holders on the bikes. However, sealed water bottles can always be stored in the saddlebag!
What if something goes wrong mid-ride?
Text or call me. I'll troubleshoot fast! If it’s a major mechanical issue, I’ll work with you to find a solution or arrange a swap, depending on the location and timing. In the most extreme circumstances, we offer full or partial refunds!
Can I park the bike anywhere?
Lock it to fixed racks or sturdy posts without blocking paths, storefronts, or private driveways. Use the included lock whenever you’re away from the bike. In some cases, you may be allowed to lock multiple bikes together!
Where do I ride on Block Island?
Most public roads are bike-friendly. Many beach access routes welcome bikes (note that several are not open to mopeds). I'm more than happy to point you in the right direction and have maps available for study aboard the ferry!
Other frequently asked questions
Weather, ferries, and cancellations?
We ride in normal New England weather. If there’s severe weather or ferry cancellations, I handle refunds on a case-by-case basis - fair and reasonable is the rule. Just keep me in the loop and we'll make it work!
What if I miss my return ferry?
Let me know ASAP. Oftentimes, it's no big deal! Communicate and we’ll sort it out.
Can I bring the bike in a car or taxi?
In some cases, yes. In most cases, no. If you think you may need or want to transport the bikes by car or truck, give me a call, and we can usually work something out.
How do payments work?
Pay over the phone or on pickup (cash or card accepted). The deposit holds your bikes; the balance is due before (or potentially after) you ride.
Can I rent if I’ve never used an e-bike?
If you’re already steady on a bicycle, yes, e-bikes are intuitive. Watch the safety video or watch closely while I demonstrate, start in low assist, and you’ll get it fast. If you can’t ride a bike, this IS NOT the time to learn.
Group sizes and events?
Totally—just book early so I can allocate the right mix of bikes and any child/passenger setups you need.
Anything I should bring?
Closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and your phone (for the safety video, maps, and communication with me). A small backpack if you’re packing beach gear.
What’s your vibe on island etiquette?
Be friendly, ride predictably, wave cars through when it’s safe, and keep speeds low near crowds and wildlife. Leave no trace at beaches and trails.
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