Free bikes at Kimpton hotels in USA

Commuting by bicycle is getting more popular, and so is sightseeing by pedal power – two reasons why Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in the USA are offering guests free loaner bikes. But these are not ordinary roadsters. These are custom-made for the boutique hotel company by San Francisco-based boutique bicycle and gear company PUBLIC. The brightly colored bikes are sturdy, easy-to-ride three speeds, perfect for urban exploring on two wheels.

The bikes are complimentary at all Kimpton properties nationwide, in keeping with the chain’s commitment to health, well-being and sense of fun and adventure. The program is the idea of Kimpton’s new chief operating officer, Michael DeFrino, who is an avid cyclist.

According to the U. S. Census Bureau, bike commuting in the United States has increased by 36% since 2005 and is still growing exponentially. From city-wide bike share programs to indoor cycling classes to bike pub crawls, U.S. cities large and small are in the middle of a bike boom, including the new bike-sharing program in New York City, launched this year.

The Kimpton bike will be easy to spot on the street with its custom cherry-red frame with orange and blue accents, cream tires, matching double walled rims, brass bell. There’s also an old-fashioned rear basket that Kimpton’s chefs can fill with a tasty picnic. Kimpton also is putting a spin on those picnics, offering themed baskets including light and healthy vegan and vegetarian, romantic shareables, and local flair.Kimpton – which operates the Monaco brand among others – is one of my favorite hotel groups, for its commitment to green and sustainability.

As I’ve written many times here on ecoXplorer, Kimpton’s eco-program, called Earth Care, is one of the best in the hotel business, including for operating several LEED certified and Green Seal hotels.

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