by Jayna Elce
It was the first time I had been bar-hopping on a bicycle built for 17.
We hopped aboard the Beach Barcycle, which looks like a trolley with two rows of pedalers and a driver, and traveled smoothly down Hermosa Avenue. From my perch on one of the comfortable barstools – I mean, bike seats – I checked out the on-board sound system and the iPod docking station for the rider’s individual jams, and the solar panels that power the electronics.
We pedaled to Hennessey’s Tavern on the Pier Plaza, enjoying a first round of appetizers and drinks, from the establishment’s sunny rooftop deck overlooking the Strand.
“We think the Beach Barcycle will be a big hit,” said Hennessey’s regional manager Tyler Thurlow.
He called the vehicle a “unique and innovative idea” that would help stimulate the local economy.
From Henessey’s, we peddled back down Hermosa Avenue to Game Changers, which opened seven months ago as a great place to shoot pool, watch the game and drink some beer, perhaps one of the 54 on tap, including Allagash 4, which is a gem to find.
Our final destination was right around the corner at the Beach House Hotel. We were all excited to get back aboard the barcycle, and once again it was easy peddling.
We cooled down with some complimentary champagne and white cheddar popcorn, which complement each other perfectly, in the beachfront hotel’s casual but chic, home-away-from-home atmosphere.
We had fun, and we didn’t pay for parking.
The Beach Barcycle can be rented for scenic tours, pub crawls, private parties, offbeat business meetings or charity events. It currently pedals routes in Hermosa,Redondo Beach, Santa Monica and Venice.
Similar vehicles operate in more than 30 U.S. cities, said the Barcycle’s managing director, Frank Congine.
For more see www.beachbarcycle.com.
