Hydrobikes bring a new spin to trail blazing

Laur was able to showcase the buoyancy and stability of the water bikes. They can handle up to 400 pounds and will remain stable in water and won’t tip, even with someone pulling themselves onto the bike from within the water.

Hub Staff

Port Elgin beach goers can literally ride off into the sunset this summer, courtesy of new family-run business Family Tide Rentals and their six Hydrobikes.

Run by Christine Laur and her sister Leanne Gatten, the Hydrobikes will be available to rent daily during the summer months and into autumn rain or shine. Rentals are located at the cement pad on the south side of Port Elgin’s Main Beach.

Owner Christine Laur wanted to provide an activity that could involve both parents and children, with fun on the lake. “We were here with our kids and we thought that Hydrobikes would be a great addition for families on this beach,” Laur said June 30. She added that riders won’t need to touch the water if they don’t want to. “A lot of moms like the option for not getting wet.”

Laur continued, “it’s honestly the best thing blazing trail in the lake. The waves change constantly, you're never riding the same trail ever; and even if you take the same path every day, it’s going to feel like a new ride, it’s pretty spectacular.”

The Hyrdobikes are very stable and hold up to 400 pounds. They can be used to fish. They can be used by the whole family and lifejackets must be worn.

“They're very buoyant in the water. A parent can propel and peddle the bike and have their children sit on the side decks and they can go for a ride,” Laur said, insisting that every member of the family is invited to try.

“We’re very dog friendly. If anyone is interested in doing a ride with their dogs, we can meet them at the dog beach (North of the Port Elgin Harbour) and your dog can go on and ride with you for free.”

The Hydrobikes will take on a Canadian theme during the Canada Day long weekend and in support of Liv-A-Little Foundation’s “Paint the Town Purple” campaign this August, Family Tide Rentals will deck their bikes out in purple flare and donate $1 from each weekend rental to Liv-A-Little.

A half hour rental costs $15, $30 for an hour or you can rent for the day, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for $225. Prices are before tax. Visit familytiderentals.com for more information or group options.

“We have a sunset package on [our website] but stay tuned for date night and family packages,” said Laur adding that riders can rent online, by phone, reserve by email or find them at their beach location.

Jane and Christine Laur with a Hydrobike from Family Tide Rentals, June 30.