How to Plan Your Bike Trip in New York City

Bike riding is one of the best ways to get around New York City. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, running errands or commuting to work, planning your bike trip in advance will help make your next experience more enjoyable. Follow these easy steps to help you plan your next bike trip in New York City.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bike
• Maps
• Computer
• Water & Fruit

1. 
    
   Clean and Lubricate your bike parts

   When was the last time your bike had a tune up? Is your bike functioning well enough for your next ride? Check the bike to see if it’s functioning correctly. Take the bike to a bike shop and give it a tune up if it hasn’t been used for a while. Make sure to check gears, brakes and tire pressure before riding. Clean your bike and grease any parts that need attention. Doing this will ensure your safety and give you a pleasurable ride.

2. 
    
   Bike Map

   Using bike maps will help you get around town efficiently and safely. Most bike maps layout bike paths, greenways and lanes available for bike riders. Identifying these routes in advance increases your safety by riding on the best route available for biking. Bike maps could be found in bike shops or online. Check the resources section for some NYC bike map links.

3. 
    

   Try to reach the destination point with minimum effort by taking your bike on the subways and railroads. This is a very helpful alternative if you encounter fatigue, functional problems or simply want to increase your range of travel. Planning your trip with the use of an online transit guide and bike map will give you a clearer layout of how you should approach your trip. The resources section has a useful transit guide link.

4. 
    
   Bike Essentials

   Finally, be sure to check that you have everything needed for your trip. Bring a helmet, sturdy lock, repair kit and an air pump. Take with you some water and fruit to help you maintain your energy. Check the weather forecast and bring a plastic poncho to protect you from the elements.

Tips & Warnings

• Wearing your bike helmet while you ride and following traffic rules will help increase your safe ride.
• Be aware of the rules and passes needed for taking your bike on trains.

Resources

• Bike Maps
• Bike Maps
• Directions

[ilivetoteach]

on 6/2/2009 Great article on planning a bike trip in New York City. I've always wanted to visit New York. *5

[writelikecrazy]

on 4/30/2009 exciting, fun tips on planning a bike trip to New York City! Well written :)

[lmccray4]

on 4/21/2009 Great tips, very informative 5* and recommendation

[boatst]

on 4/19/2009 Great article on planning a bike trip to New York. Lots of good info Thanks.

[mkh1958]

on 4/19/2009 New York City is a terrific place to take a bike trip. Good idea and good article.