Hasta La Ideas

by Rebecca Harkins-Cross

For moonlighting in Melbourne’s obsessive cycling scene, The Humble Vintage steps in like a long-lost friend, offering vintage bicycles for short-term hire. Not just a more aesthetically pleasing way to explore the city, the experience allows tourists to roll incognito by skipping logos, mountain bikes and fluorescent helmets.

Born in July 2009, after founder Matthew Hurst rented a bike during a trip to Argentina and decided to check out what was available back home, he based the business on the idea that you can “get into town, pick up a nice pair of wheels and just blend in.” Hurst sourced and reconditioned a variety of vintage cruisers, city bikes, vintage racers and ladies’ bikes—all of which have 10 gears and come with a helmet, lights, lock and map of the city.

Self-described as a “roving bike dealer,” Hurst provides a personalized pick-up and drop-off service anywhere in Melbourne’s central business district, delivering bikes to hotels and offering up pointers on what to see and do. A natural compliment to the business, The Humble Vintage will soon accompany the rental with a custom made, quarterly city guide featuring events, stores, bars and cafes for the city’s newcomers.

The Humble Vintage bike rentals begin at A$25 a day or A$70 per week. Visit the website for booking information.