Write an equation and solve for x.

To find out how many hours Steve rented the bike, we can set up an equation based on the information given.

The total cost \(C\) of renting a bike can be expressed with the equation:
\[
C = 11 + 9h
\]
where:
- \(C\) is the total amount paid ($56),
- 11 is the fixed fee,
- 9 is the cost per hour, and
- \(h\) is the number of hours rented.

Now we can plug in the value of \(C\):
\[
56 = 11 + 9h
\]

Next, we will solve for \(h\).

1. Subtract the fixed fee from both sides:
\[
56 - 11 = 9h
\]
\[
45 = 9h
\]

2. Now, divide both sides by 9 to isolate \(h\):
\[
h = \frac{45}{9}
\]
\[
h = 5
\]

Therefore, Steve rented the bike for **5 hours**.