Bicycles are a popular way to get around New York City. Getting around NYC by bicycle is faster than walking and less frustrating than driving. Bicycles are a healthy, fun and environmentally friendly way to get around New York City. It’s also a great way to explore various parts of the city in short amount of time. In a city where vehicular traffic can sometimes grind to a halt, particularly during rush hours and tourist season, bicycles are a great alternative.
New York City is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in North America. The Big Apple contains hundreds of miles of bicycle lanes throughout the city and a growing number of cyclists. In fact, New York City was recently ranked the second most bike-friendly city in the country, after Portland, by National Geographic Traveler Magazine.
Riding in New York City does require a lot of caution. New York City has some of the most aggressive drivers in the world. You will also have to contend the jaywalking pedestrians who often disobey traffic laws as well as fast and aggressive local cyclists in a rush to get to their destination. These problems have improved over the years, but they should still be taken into consideration.
Simple safety tips should be observed when biking in New York City. You should always wear a helmet and ensure that there are reflectors on your bicycle, particularly if you plan to ride at night. Never leave your bike unattended, not even for a second. New York is a relatively safe city, but bike thieves still exist. And most importantly, observe all traffic regulations. Following traffic laws is the best way to stay safe while cycling in NYC.
With the growing popularity of bicycles in NYC, various NYC bicycle tour companies have sprung up along with established companies such as Bike the Big Apple. Many of these bike tours include tours of popular NYC attractions such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park. Bicycle tours are quickly becoming one of the best ways to go sightseeing in New York City because they offer much more freedom than the traditional bus tours. There are also several bicycle rental companies available throughout the city that can help visitors rent bikes and plan their own routes.
