Houston, TX Help: Bike Shops / Rentals / Scene?

[livingminimal]

Hey folks-

I have to head out to Houston in late February for some work. I am at a conference downtown (?) on Walker Street and have two mornings where I could get out and ride. I arrive on a Wednesday late afternoon and leave Friday night.

Questions:

Is there anywhere you can rent a decent road bike?
Shop names would be cool.

Is there any bike paths/anywhere in particular to ride, especially at or near the hotel? > Marriott Marquis Houston 1777 Walker Street

Any other tips/advice/whatever regarding cycling in Houston?

Thanks.

[tbike4]

I have been going to Houston the last 3 years for work during HLSR and staying across the street from NRG stadium. I have found this which is ok:
http://hcp1.net/Trails/Brays-Bayou

but I would also be interested in where else one might ride, join a group etc. Hey living, you can ride with me for sure. ;)

[livingminimal]

I have been going to Houston the last 3 years for work during HLSR and staying across the street from NRG stadium. I have found this which is ok:
http://hcp1.net/Trails/Brays-Bayou

but I would also be interested in where else one might ride, join a group etc. Hey living, you can ride with me for sure. ;)

I just found this for rental:
http://bikebarn.com/about/store-rental-pg1393.htm

https://bikehouston.org/

[rst72]

I don't think they rent bikes (could be wrong), but the best little bike shop in houston: http://bicyclespeedshop.co/

[htono]

Definitely visit West End Bikes and ask for Daniel.
Last time I was there they had a large rental fleet, and Daniel is very knowledgeable and extremely nice.

If you want to oggle over high end bikes and parts, visit Philip Shama (Shama Cycles).

[tiretrax]

I recommend West End also. They have some cool vintage bikes in their collection. The owner is a nice fellow, too. Gatlin's for BBQ.

Be careful on the roads. I grew up in Houston and ride there occasionally. It's a true driver's town. If you can get out to the Memorial area, there are bike lanes, but it can still be dicey.