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,