Riding a bike in NYC?

Question

What do i need to know before buying a bike and riding on the streets here? I've always wanted to get a bike, but was scared/confused because the streets are always congested and stuff. Any advice? Safety tips? Laws?

Answer 1

Wear a helmet, ride defensively--  ALWAYS assume the driver in the car next to you on the street cannot see you.  Try to ride on streets with bike lanes whenever possible.  I would also recommend getting puncture-resistant tires or carry a flat repair kit with you, and if you have an expensive bike, you best not lock it unattended on the street without quick-releasing the seat and wheels (they WILL get stolen if not locked down).

I've ridden my bike in NYC for the longest time and there are some REALLY nice rides to be had.  My favorite places to ride in NYC include across the Brooklyn Bridge, the West Side bike path, the Central Park drive, Flushing Meadows Park, the Rockaways boardwalk, The Vanderbilt Parkway, and the Joe Michaels Mile in Douglaston.  Check them out if you get a chance.

There are some good groups that offer recreational day rides too, like the 5-borough Bicycle Club:  http://www.5bbc.org

Transportation Alternatives have a few annual rides like the NYC Bike Century, the Tour de Bronx (in october), the Tour de Brooklyn and the Tour de Queens.

Hope this helps, enjoy your rides, and good luck.

Answer 2

wear a helmet.

wear gloves.

Riding a bike can be dangerous; often drivers will not give you due respect.  Keep an eye out for people in parked cars who might open a door into your path.

As afar as laws go, you are required to follow motor vehicle laws.  Ride with the traffic,  Rules concerning stopping at red lights and stop signs aren't really enforced.

Stay off the busiest streets if possible.

Don't leave your bike unattended anytime, not even to go into a store for a drink.

oh, yeah.  Have Fun!!

Answer 3

there are new bike paths that are being built there so try and stay near those. make sure you wear a helmet and become familiar of your surroundings. watch other drivers and don't assume that a car can see you. just be careful and have fun!!