Wild Bunch Desert Guides, a top-rated provider of Phoenix adventure tours, is thrilled to announce a significant upgrade to their fleet of bikes. Owner Laurel, feeling the festive spirit, decided to bring a bit of early cheer to riders seeking unforgettable Sonoran Desert experiences. Driven by a desire to enhance their offerings and fueled by a Small Business Administration (SBA) loan, Wild Bunch has invested in a stable of brand-new Kona Honzo hardtail mountain bikes, ready to elevate their Phoenix mountain bike tours to the next level.
A family of four pauses during one of the Phoenix mountain bike tours from the Wild Bunch with a trademark Arizona sunset in the background.
(Alt Text: Family enjoying a Phoenix mountain bike tour with Wild Bunch Desert Guides, set against a vibrant Arizona sunset.)
Since 2017, Wild Bunch Desert Guides has been committed to providing exceptional Phoenix mountain bike tours, and while their previous Marin bikes served them well, Laurel felt it was time for an upgrade. The desire was not just for new bikes, but for a partnership with a company that truly valued its collaborators. Enter Kona Bikes, renowned for their appreciation of those who ride and promote their brand. This commitment to partnership, coupled with the timely availability of a full fleet of Kona Honzos at Grey Matter Family Bicycle Shop (GMF) in Phoenix, made the decision a clear one. Despite ongoing supply chain challenges, the opportunity to secure these sought-after bikes was too good to pass up.
A Wild Bunch guest navigates a rocky downhill during one of our Phoenix mountain bike tours.
(Alt Text: Adventurous rider navigating a rocky downhill trail on a Phoenix mountain bike tour with Wild Bunch Desert Guides.)
The new Kona Honzos have been a game-changer since their introduction this fall for Wild Bunch’s seventh season of Phoenix mountain bike tours. These “29ers” offer a noticeably smoother and more playful ride compared to the previous 27.5-inch bikes. Lighter and more agile, the Honzos are described by Kona as being as comfortable and reliable as your favorite pair of jeans – a sentiment Laurel wholeheartedly agrees with. They are the perfect fit for tackling the diverse trails of the Sonoran Desert on any Phoenix mountain bike tour. While beginners might not immediately grasp the difference, experienced mountain bikers appreciate the superior performance of 29ers, and Wild Bunch is now equipped to cater to both novice and seasoned riders alike.
While most of the Marin bikes have been sold to new homes, a few remain in the fleet, ensuring backup and continued service. The upgrade to Kona Honzos represents a significant reinvestment in the business, following the launch of a new website in 2020, and underscores Wild Bunch’s dedication to providing top-tier experiences.
A couple on one of the Phoenix mountain bike tours from the Wild Bunch poses for a picture at a gorgeous Sonoran Desert oasis.
(Alt Text: Couple pausing for a scenic photo at a Sonoran Desert oasis during their Phoenix mountain bike tour with Wild Bunch Desert Guides.)
Expanding the fleet further, Laurel also acquired Santa Cruz and Rocky Mountain full-suspension bikes during a working vacation in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. These additions, sourced from All Sports Replay and Big Al’s Bike Heaven respectively, provide upgrade options for guests seeking even more advanced equipment on Scottsdale mountain bike tours. While full-suspension requests are not the norm, having these bikes readily available allows Wild Bunch to accommodate diverse rider preferences without relying solely on rentals.
Speaking of rentals, Wild Bunch Desert Guides maintains strong partnerships with local bike shops, ensuring all guest needs are met. Exhale Bikes stands out as a crucial partner, consistently providing excellent service and support. Dynamite Bike Lab is another invaluable resource for rentals, and Grey Matter Family Bicycle Shop (GMF) offers access to high-end Pivot bikes when needed. Laurel expresses deep gratitude for these partnerships, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that ensures every Wild Bunch guest is well-cared for.
For visitors to the Valley of the Sun who may not require a guided tour for Phoenix mountain bike trails, Wild Bunch readily recommends these trusted bike shops for rentals. However, for those seeking safety, expert trail selection, and unforgettable photo opportunities, Wild Bunch Desert Guides provides unparalleled guided Phoenix mountain bike tours. Their medically trained guides ensure rider safety, and their expertise guarantees an exceptional and memorable desert adventure. Conversely, these partner shops often refer customers to Wild Bunch when guided hardtail tours are desired, showcasing the mutually beneficial relationships within the Phoenix biking community. This collaborative ecosystem, built on trust and mutual support, allows businesses like Exhale Bikes and Wild Bunch Desert Guides to thrive and provide outstanding services to both locals and visitors alike.
Laurel on bike
(Alt Text: Laurel, owner of Wild Bunch Desert Guides, pictured with a mountain bike, ready for another day of guided tours.)
