If you live in Tempe or you’re moving here, you might have some questions about bicycling. For example, where are the best bike shops in Tempe, AZ, and what are the bicycle laws? Also, is biking on the sidewalk illegal in Tempe, AZ and will Tempe police ticket you for biking on the sidewalk? For the answer to those bike-related questions and several more, read on. Storage Solutions has them below. Plus, some excellent advice about bicycling in our favorite city, Tempe, AZ!
Bicycling is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, get some exercise, and save money on gas. In Tempe, Arizona, biking is an incredibly popular activity. It’s so popular that the League of American Bicyclists named our city a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community! Almost 4% of workers in Tempe, AZ, use their bicycles to get to work, one of the highest levels in the United States.
Can You Ride your Bicycle on the Sidewalk in Tempe, Arizona?
The laws in Tempe and Maricopa County about biking on the sidewalk can, frankly, be confusing. For example, in Maricopa County, biking on the sidewalk is not illegal, even though they have ample bike lanes.
In the city of Tempe, though, you’ll see signs forbidding the practice all over. However, the laws state that when no bike lanes are available, it is not illegal to ride your bike on the sidewalk in Tempe, AZ. Also, if the speed limit is more than 25 mph, you can use the sidewalk. Not surprisingly, the signs saying you can’t are posted on roads with ample bike lanes.
Even further, the laws state that minors can ride their bikes on the sidewalks with a parent or guardian. Those same parents and guardians can also use the sidewalks.
Lastly, Arizona has no state laws that regulate the riding of bicycles on the sidewalk. However, cities like Tempe can, and do, enforce their own rules. So, as you can see, the laws about cycling on the sidewalk in Tempe and Arizona are a little confusing. Below, however, are the rules and laws we found for Tempe, AZ.
Tempe, AZ Bike Laws
- Bikes, e-bikes, and scooters can use the sidewalk when no bike lanes are available.
- Sidewalks can be used when a street’s speed limit exceeds 25 miles per hour.
- Minors (under 18) can bike on the sidewalk when they are with a parent or guardian.
- Parents or guardians riding with minors can also ride their bicycles on the sidewalk.
- If there are signs prohibiting bikes on the sidewalk, all riders must obey them.
- Bikes must ride in the same direction as traffic. If there are signs designating two-way traffic, you can ignore this rule.
- Bicycles must yield to traffic at all crosswalks or when crossing traffic.
- When riding on a sidewalk, pedestrians have the right of way. Also, you must give an audible signal before you pass a pedestrian.
Tempe is a Bike-Friendly City
We mentioned at the start that Tempe, AZ, is a bike-friendly city, and it’s true. The city has been recognized as having a plethora of safe biking paths. We’re also known for having many locals who commute to work by bicycle.
One amazing fact is that, even though Tempe’s only 40 square miles, we have 200+ miles of bike paths! These include bike lanes on our city streets and trails through the Sonoran Desert. In short, biking is a way of life here in Tempe, and our city is better for it. Click here if you’d like to know more about Tempe, AZ’s bike paths, and bicycle safety.
Will Tempe Police Ticket you for Biking on the Sidewalk?
There are many instances of police ticketing Tempe bike riders on the sidewalk, even where it’s not prohibited. Typically, the fine for sidewalk bike riding equals a minor traffic violation. However, that will total approximately $150.00 with court costs. So we recommend you keep reading to avoid any fines for riding your bike on the sidewalk in Tempe, AZ.
Here’s the thing; we’re not legal experts. The police in Tempe are usually fair and balanced, but the bike laws here, as we’ve seen, are confusing. For that reason, we advise riding on bike paths whenever possible. Strictly following all posted bike laws is also a good idea. That way, you can avoid any run-ins with Johnny Law (and expensive fines).
Bike Shops in Tempe, AZ
Being a city well-known for biking, it’s not surprising Tempe, AZ has many bike shops. Most of them sell and rent bikes and all the equipment you’ll need to enjoy a ride. Below are a few of the highest-rated bike shops in Tempe to help you get on the road!
- State Rideshop
- Soul Beach Cruisers
- Domenic’s Cycling
- Sonoran Cycles Bike Shop
- Landis Cyclery
- Portapedal Bike
Three Excellent Bike Paths in Tempe, Arizona
There are, to be sure, many superb bike paths in Tempe. Three of the best are below. All three are enjoyable and safe. In addition, they have great views and access to local amenities and attractions.
1. Crosscut Canal Path
Starting just north of Curry, the Crosscut Canal Path passes public art installations and a disc golf course. The tree-lined path gives plenty of shade on hot days, too!
2. Western Canal Path
Flowing through several neighborhoods, the Western Canal Path takes you around southern Tempe. It passes Ken McDonald Golf Course along the way, where you’ll encounter many beautiful bird species. (And plenty of rabbits!)
3. Kyrene Canal Path
This path begins in Mesa, AZ, and flows into Tempe, passing lovely Kiwanis Park. If you like fishing, bring a portable pole to cast into the pond! Also, be aware that Kyrene Canal Path has several hills, making it more challenging.
Tempe’s Bike Rules and Sidewalk Laws Brought to you by Storage Solutions
Is biking on the sidewalk illegal in Tempe, AZ? As we’ve seen, yes and no. Our advice is to always follow the posted laws, use common sense and ride safely.
At Storage Solutions, you can rent safe self-storage units in Tempe for all your bikes. (You can store almost anything else, too!) Clean and secure, both our Tempe, AZ self-storage centers have on-site managers and 24/7 video monitoring.
We recommend reserving a storage unit in Tempe, AZ, early if you’re moving here soon. Your Tempe storage units will be ready and waiting for your household goods when you arrive. There are two upsides to doing this. First, our storage costs are much less than the typical moving company. Second, once your things are safely stored, you can search for your new Tempe, AZ, home at your own pace. We hope today’s information about biking on sidewalks in Tempe has been helpful. From everyone at Storage Solutions, enjoy riding around our bike-friendly city, Tempe, Arizona!