I've been in Kunming for a bit over a year now, and I have a mountain bike that I end up riding quite a bit, both for commuting and for recreational riding. However, I'm considering riding in stage 1 of the China Gran Fondo in November -- the stage that goes around Dian Chi -- and for that, I think it would be a more pleasant ride if I was on a road bike -- lighter, with narrower tires. Since I also don't want to start riding on the day of the event on an un-tested bike, I think that if I'm going to ride one in the Gran Fondo, I'd like to have it for a few weeks, to make sure it's reliable, fits my frame, and all that.

So, does anyone know if there are bike shops in town that rent *road* bikes? I believe I've heard of some that rent mountain bikes, but that wouldn't be any better than what I already have.

I've asked at a Specialized shop near where I live, and the clerk didn't immediately know of any place in town that might offer that kind of rental. Has anyone *here* ever heard of a shop renting out a mid-level road bike? Are there any other options for getting a road bike for a few weeks, short of buying one?

Thanks in advance,

I doubt anyone rents them, because it's the sort of sport where it's worth having your own gear, good gear can be quite expensive, and you have to adjust it to the individual rider.

Might be worth buying a cheap one.

Xiong brothers bike shop rents bikes, but don't think they have road bikes, but you can check or ask if they have an old one in storage somewhere maybe. Or check the bike shops along 121 st across Yun normal, though same usually no road bikes on rent. Worst case, go to Xiong bro and buy two slim tires for 80rmb each I think, though that was a while ago, so maybe 100 rmb each now. They will install. Will make your mtn bike faster, but check if it's allowed. I assume your not trying to place, as the road bike category is very pro scene, better chance in mtn cat.