Bicycling in Maui

Bicycling

Maui County biking is safer and more convenient than in the past, but long distances and mountainous terrain keep it from being a practical mode of travel. Still, painted bike lanes enable cyclists to travel all the way from Makena to Kapalua, and you'll see hardy souls battling the trade winds under the hot Maui sun.

Several companies offer guided downhill bike tours from the top of Haleakala all the way to the coast. From peak to sea level it's 38 mi total with only about 400 yards of actual pedaling required. This activity is a great way to see the summit of the world's largest dormant volcano and enjoy an easy, gravity-induced bike ride, but isn't for those not confident in their ability to handle a bike. The ride is inherently dangerous due to the slope, sharp turns, and the fact that you're riding down an actual road with cars on it. That said, the guided bike companies do take every safety precaution. A few companies are now offering unguided (or as they like to say "self-guided") tours where they provide you with the bike and transportation to the top and then you're free to descend at your own pace. Sunrise is downright brisk at the summit, so dress in layers.

Best Spots

Though it's changing, at present there are few truly good spots to ride on Maui. Street bikers will want to head out to scenic Thompson Road (Off Rte. 37, Kula Hwy., Keokea). It's quiet, gently curvy, and flanked by gorgeous views on both sides. Plus, because it's at a higher elevation, the air temperature is cooler and the wind lighter. The coast back down toward Kahului is worth the ride up. Mountain bikers have favored the remote Polipoli Forest (Off Rte. 377, end of Waipoli Rd.) for its bumpy trail through an unlikely forest of conifers. However, a fire in early 2007 caused the closure of the park until summer; call the Maui Visitor Bureau at 800/525-6284 for updates before you go.

Equipment Rentals & Tours

Haleakala Bike Company. If you're thinking about an unguided Haleakala bike trip, consider one of the trips offered by this company. Meet at the Old Haiku Cannery and take their van shuttle to the top. Along the way you'll learn about the history of the island, the volcano, and other Hawaiiana. Unlike the guided trips, food is not included although there are several spots along the way down to stop, rest, and eat. The simple, mostly downhill route takes you right back to the cannery where you started. HBC offers bike sales, rentals, and services. 810 Haiku Rd., Suite 120, Haiku. 808/575-9575 or 888/922-2453. www.bikemaui.com.

Island Biker. This is the premiere bike shop on Maui when it comes to rental, sales, and service. They offer 2005 Specialized standard front-shock bikes, road bikes, and full-suspension mountain bikes. Daily or weekly rates range $40 to $150, and include a helmet, pump, water bottle, and flat-repair kit. They can suggest various routes appropriate for mountain or road biking, or you can join them in a bi-weekly group ride. 415 Dairy Rd., Kahului. 808/877-7744. www.islandbikermaui.com.

Maui Downhill. If biking down the side of Haleakala sounds like fun, several companies are ready to book you a tour. Maui Downhill vans will pick you up at your resort, shuttle you to the mountaintop, help you onto a bike, and follow you as you coast down through clouds and gorgeous scenery into the town of Paia. Haleakala summit trips are available for sunrise or midday; sunset half trips from the crater to Kula are also offered. Lunch or breakfast is included, depending on your trip's start time; treks cost $125 to $185, discounts available for Internet bookings. 199 Dairy Rd., Kahului. 808/871-2155 or 800/535-2453. www.mauidownhill.net.

Maui Mountain Cruisers. Guided sunrise and midday bike trips "cruise" down Haleakala for $150 to $185 (discounts available if booked in advance). Nonbikers can ride down in a van for $55. Box 1356, Makawao. 808/871-6014 or 800/232-6284. www.mauimountaincruisers.com.

West Maui Cycles. Servicing the west side of the island, WMC offers an assortment of cycles including front-suspension Giant bikes for $40 per day ($160 per week) and Cannondale road bikes for $50 per day ($200 per week). Sales and service are available. 1087 Limahana St., Lahaina. 808/661-9005. www.westmauicycles.com.