Is biking in San Francisco safe?
Yes, very safe with us. 95%+ of our routes are in official bike lanes, protected pathways, and quiet backroads. Our guides are trained in group safety and traffic management, and our e-bikes are specifically configured for SF's terrain. We've led thousands of riders safely since 2013.
Are helmets required?
Helmets are required on all guided tours regardless of age. For rentals, helmets are legally required for riders under 18 (California Vehicle Code §21212) and strongly recommended for adults. Our Class 1 e-bikes don't require adult helmets by law, but we highly recommend them and provide MIPS-equipped helmets at no extra charge.
What type of e-bikes do you use?
RadPower RadRunner Class 1 e-bikes — pedal-assist, max assisted speed of 20 mph. They feature UL 2849 certified batteries, step-thru frames, disc brakes, extra-wide tires, and red rear reflectors/lights. Our fleet fully complies with all California 2026 e-bike regulations including SB 1271 and AB 544.
What if I haven't ridden a bike in a while?
No worries — our e-bikes are very easy to ride and we give you time to practice during the pre-ride briefing. The motor handles all hills, and the step-thru frame makes getting on and off simple. You should be comfortable riding a bike in a straight line and coming to a stop. Guests who can't ride safely will receive a full refund.
Can kids join?
Public tours are for ages 12+. Families with children ages 8+ can book a private tour. All riders under 18 are required by California law to wear a helmet, and we enforce this strictly. We provide properly sized helmets for younger riders.
What happens in case of a mechanical issue on the road?
On guided tours, your guide carries basic tools and can handle most issues on the spot. For rentals, call us and we'll assist — our shop is centrally located in Haight-Ashbury. Every bike is thoroughly inspected before each ride to minimize the chance of issues.
Do you carry insurance?
Yes. Dandyhorse maintains comprehensive commercial general liability insurance covering our tours, rentals, and operations. Details are available upon request.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing you can move in, closed-toe shoes (required), and layers — SF weather changes quickly. Avoid loose scarves, long skirts, or anything that could catch in the bike. We provide helmets and all necessary safety equipment.
