Why Allentown Is Great for Cycling
Allentown may be best known for its industrial heritage, but it is also blessed with an extraordinary park system. The Lehigh Parkway, Trexler Park, Cedar Creek Parkway, and the Jordan Creek Greenway offer miles of tree-lined paths, while the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor trail stretches for well over a hundred miles through river valleys and historic canal towns. Within an hour's drive, riders can tackle the breathtaking Lehigh Gorge, one of the most popular rail trails in the eastern United States.
Whether you want a casual ride through the parks, a challenging mountain bike session, or a guided e-bike adventure, these ten rental services and shops make it easy to get rolling.
1. Bike Line
Bike Line is a well-established bicycle retailer with a presence in the Lehigh Valley. Beyond sales and repairs, its knowledgeable staff can help riders find demo bikes, recommend routes through local parks, and fit you properly before a long ride. It is a smart first stop for visitors and newcomers who want expert advice.
2. Trek Bicycle Retailers
Trek-authorized shops in the region frequently offer test rides and demo programs for road, gravel, mountain, and electric bikes. Trying a high-end bike on Allentown's rolling terrain before buying is one of the best ways to make a confident purchase, and Trek's wide model lineup covers nearly every riding style.
3. Pocono Biking
Located in historic Jim Thorpe, Pocono Biking specializes in rentals and shuttle service for the Lehigh Gorge State Park trail. Riders can be dropped at the top of the gorge and enjoy a mostly downhill journey back along the river, passing waterfalls and towering cliffs. It is a favorite day trip for Allentown families.
4. Blue Mountain Sports
Blue Mountain Sports is another Jim Thorpe outfitter offering bike rentals, trail shuttles, and outdoor gear. Its staff is experienced in matching riders with the right bike and helmet, and the shop's location makes it easy to combine cycling with lunch or shopping in the charming downtown.
5. Pocono Whitewater Adventures
Known for rafting, Pocono Whitewater Adventures also rents bikes and organizes trail trips through the Lehigh Gorge. Packages that combine biking and rafting appeal to groups looking for a full day of adventure, from corporate teams in Allentown to college friends visiting for the weekend.
6. Jim Thorpe River Adventures
Jim Thorpe River Adventures offers bicycle rentals and shuttle service alongside its river trips. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on safety, it provides another excellent gateway to the scenic trails north of Allentown.
7. Lime
App-based micromobility providers like Lime have expanded across many mid-sized American cities, offering e-bikes and scooters that can be unlocked with a smartphone. Where available, these dockless vehicles are ideal for short trips around downtown, connecting to bus stops, or exploring neighborhoods without committing to a full-day rental.
8. Bethlehem Bike Works
Bethlehem Bike Works is a community-focused bicycle organization in neighboring Bethlehem that promotes affordable cycling through refurbished bikes, repair education, and volunteer programs. For residents who need an inexpensive bike for longer periods, community bike programs like this are a valuable alternative to traditional rentals.
9. Specialized Bicycle Dealers
Specialized retailers throughout the region host demo events and offer test rides on electric and performance bikes. Their Turbo e-bike lineup is particularly popular for riders who want to tackle the Lehigh Valley's hills with a little pedal assistance.
10. Local Outfitters Along the D and L Trail
Several outfitters and shops in canal towns along the Delaware and Lehigh Trail rent bikes seasonally. Renting near a trailhead lets you ride sections between towns such as Walnutport, Slatington, and Easton, discovering canal locks, lock tenders' houses, and river views along the way.
Choosing the Right Bike Rental
Think about where you plan to ride. Paved parkways and rail trails suit hybrid or comfort bikes, while gravel paths and forest trails call for wider tires and suspension. E-bikes make longer distances and steep climbs far more enjoyable, especially for mixed-ability groups. Always confirm that a helmet is included and ask about trail conditions, shuttle times, and return deadlines.
Weekend reservations during peak fall foliage season fill quickly, particularly in Jim Thorpe. Booking a week or two ahead guarantees availability and often secures a better shuttle time.
Cycling Trends in the Lehigh Valley
The Lehigh Valley has steadily expanded its trail network, with ongoing efforts to close gaps in the D and L Trail and connect city neighborhoods to regional greenways. E-bike adoption is surging, and more shops now offer electric rentals and guided tours. Allentown's investment in bike lanes and the Jordan Creek Greenway reflects a broader push to make cycling a practical transportation choice, not just recreation.
Final Thoughts
From quick downtown spins to unforgettable rides through the Lehigh Gorge, Allentown offers cyclists a remarkable variety of experiences. With the right rental partner, anyone can enjoy the region's parks, rivers, and mountains on two wheels.