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5 Reasons to Bike with someone in NYC. Safety in numbers  – More visible to cars, help with bike issues. Discover hidden gems  – Friends spot cool things you’d probably will miss. Motivation boost  – Easier to tackle hills or enduring distances together. Share the fun  – Post-ride coffee, photos, or exploring is better with company. Vibes! Learn new routes  – Swap local knowledge... Communicating. *Manhattan Route:  Hudson River Greenway (car-free waterfront views) → Pier 57 Rooftop Park Stop:   L’Amico  for Italian bites with skyline views. Pro Tip:  Rent Citi Bikes and make it a spontaneous date or friend hangout. *Brooklyn Route:  Prospect Park Loop → Gowanus Dredgers Boathouse Stop:   L’Albero dei Gelati  for artisanal gelato. Pro Tip:  Join the Brooklyn Greenway Initiative  group rides. *Queens Route:  Flushing Meadows Corona Park (Unisphere + street food) → Queens Museum Stop:   Arepa Lady  for legendary Colombian arepas. Pro Tip:  Bike to the Queens Night Market  (seasonal) for global bites. *The Bronx Route:  Pelham Bay Park (NYC’s largest park) → City Island lobster shacks Stop:   The Original Crab Shanty  for seafood feasts. Pro Tip:  Detour to Orchard Beach  for a quick dip in summer. *Staten Island Route:  Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk → Snug Harbor Cultural Center Stop:   Joe & Pat’s  for cracker-thin Staten Island pizza. Pro Tip:  Take the Staten Island Ferry  (free!) with your bike for epic skyline photos. ***Last but not least... finding Riding Buddies Groups:   Bike New York  (free classes + rides) Apps:  Meetup (search “NYC Cycling”) or Strava  (local clubs) Social:  Tag @wheelienyc in your ride pics – we’ll share the stoke!

I. Mastering the Climb: Uphill Riding Why It’s Important:  Hills and inclines are inevitable on outdoor adventures. Proper technique makes climbing easier and less exhausting. How to Do It: Shift to a lower gear  before you start climbing. Stay seated  to maintain traction and control. Lean slightly forward and keep your pedal strokes smooth and steady . Focus on breathing rhythmically  to conserve energy. II. Handling Descents: Downhill Control Why It’s Important:  Descending can be thrilling but requires control to stay safe. How to Do It: Shift to a higher gear  before starting the descent. Keep your weight back and low  to maintain balance. Use both brakes evenly  to avoid skidding (front brake for control, rear brake for stability). Look ahead  to anticipate turns or obstacles. III. Cornering Like a Pro: Smooth Turns Why It’s Important:  Sharp turns are common on trails and city paths, and proper cornering keeps you stable and fast. How to Do It: Slow down  before entering the turn. Lean your bike, not your body , into the turn. Keep your outside pedal down  for balance and traction. Look through the turn  to where you want to go, not at the ground.

Brooklyn’s Artistic Ride: Bushwick Street Art Tour Why It’s Exclusive:  Bushwick is a haven for street art, and biking is the best way to explore it. Ride down Troutman Street  and St. Nicholas Avenue  to see vibrant murals and graffiti. Stop:  Take a break at Roberta’s Pizza  for a slice of their famous wood-fired pizza. The Urban Oasis: Vanderbilt Avenue’s Open Streets Why It’s Exclusive:  Every weekend, Vanderbilt Avenue in Prospect Heights becomes a car-free zone, making it a dream for bikers. Ride through this vibrant corridor lined with cafes, shops, and street performers. Stop:  Grab a coffee at Daily Press  or a snack at Winner , a local favorite for baked goods. The Industrial Chic: Red Hook Waterfront Ride Why It’s Exclusive:  Red Hook’s industrial charm and waterfront views make it a unique biking destination. Cruise down Van Brunt Street  and explore the Erie Basin Park  for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty. Stop:  Treat yourself to a scoop at Ample Hills Creamery  or a drink at Red Hook Winery .

I. The Elevated Acre: A Secret Oasis in the Financial District Tucked away in the heart of the Financial District of Manhattan, the Elevated Acre is a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This location offers stunning views of the East River, lush greenery, and plenty of seating to relax. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet afternoon or a picturesque sunset. -Pro Tip:  Visit during lunch hours to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while Wall Street workers rush below. II. Little Island: A Floating Park on the Hudson One of NYC’s newest main attractions, Little Island , is built on stilts over the Hudson River. With its unique design, vibrant gardens, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience something truly unique. -Pro Tip:  Check their event calendar for free concerts and performances during your visit. III. Roosevelt Island Tramway: A Scenic Ride with a View For a unique perspective of the city, hop on the Roosevelt Island Tramway . This accessible tram offers breathtaking views of Manhattan and the East River as it glides above the city. Once on Roosevelt Island, explore its parks, historic sites, and waterfront paths. -Pro Tip:  Visit during sunset for a magical view of the city skyline.

1. Hudson River Greenway (Manhattan) This iconic path runs along the Hudson River, offering stunning views of the water and the city skyline. It’s perfect for a sunny afternoon ride, with plenty of spots to stop and relax. 2. Prospect Park Loop (Brooklyn) Escape the city buzz with a ride through Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. The loop is peaceful, scenic, and great for a leisurely ride. Don’t forget to pack a picnic! 3. Rockaway Beach Boardwalk (Queens) For a beachy vibe, head to the Rockaways. The boardwalk is flat, breezy, and ideal for a summer ride. Finish with a dip in the ocean (maybe not just yet imo.) but enjoying a snack at a local food stand is great as well.

New York City, a vibrant metropolis, is full of life and offers endless opportunities for exploration. One popular way to get around is cycling, a fun and eco-friendly option that lets you soak in the city's diverse landscapes. With a variety of bike trails winding through parks, neighborhoods, and along the waterfront, NYC encourages cyclists of all levels to experience both its urban allure and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, this guide highlights the best bike trails in NYC, helping you discover the perfect ride. So strap on your helmet, hop on your bike, and get ready to explore the exciting paths across the city! The Hudson River Greenway The Hudson River Greenway is a classic bike path and a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This 13-mile trail runs from Battery Park in lower Manhattan to the George Washington Bridge, hugging the western edge of the island. Riders can take in breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the iconic Manhattan skyline along the way. The path is mostly flat and well-kept, making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. Along the route, there are numerous spots to take a break, including the popular Pier 45, where you can relax or grab a bite from local food vendors. From this trail, you can see the cheerful boats on the river and watch as kayakers paddle by, giving you a glimpse of the river's vibrant activity. Central Park Loops Central Park is a beloved oasis in the heart of Manhattan, making it a must-visit for cyclists. The park features several bike loops, with the most popular being the 6-mile loop around its interior. Riders will experience a beautiful blend of landscapes, including wooded areas, open fields, and peaceful lakes. Cycling through Central Park is more relaxed compared to the bustling city streets, creating an ideal environment for leisurely rides. Along the way, you can spot famous landmarks like Bethesda Fountain and the picturesque Bow Bridge. Don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the seasonal colors in the flowers and foliage, which create a fresh experience each time you visit. Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway If you're heading to Brooklyn, consider exploring the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway. This 26-mile route seamlessly connects various neighborhoods along the waterfront, preserving the area's natural beauty while offering remarkable views of the Manhattan skyline. You'll come across scenic parks like Brooklyn Bridge Park, which provides ample space for rest and enjoyment. As you ride through Dumbo, you'll discover delightful local shops, art installations, and unique eateries perfect for a mid-ride snack. This trail combines cycling with the cultural richness of Brooklyn, making it an excellent option for those interested in both fitness and exploration. Prospect Park Loop Located just south of Central Park, Prospect Park offers another fantastic cycling destination. The Prospect Park Loop spans approximately 3.35 miles and is perfect for a quick ride or a family outing. Riders will navigate gentle hills while taking in stunning landscaping and lush wooded areas. Along the route, you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and occasionally catch sight of local wildlife. Notable spots include the Prospect Park Zoo and scenic Prospect Park Lake, making it an enriching ride for both nature lovers and casual cyclists. Whether you seek a short, invigorating ride or a peaceful pedal through nature, the Prospect Park Loop offers a rewarding experience. The Bronx River Greenway Don’t overlook the Bronx when it comes to cycling! The Bronx River Greenway is a hidden gem offering a unique riding experience. This 23-mile trail follows the Bronx River, connecting multiple parks and natural spaces. Riders will encounter a mix of rugged terrain and paved paths, catering to a variety of riding styles. As you cycle, expect to see beautiful landscapes, serene lookouts, and a plethora of local wildlife. This trail is ideal for those in search of a tranquil escape while enjoying an often-overlooked natural beauty in the Bronx. East River Greenway For another waterfront option, the East River Greenway stretches from Battery Park in Manhattan all the way to Astoria Park in Queens. This trail showcases the beauty of the East River while connecting many well-known neighborhoods. Along this route, cyclists can relish panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the vibrant activity on the river. It's an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a steady pace, whether commuting or cycling for leisure. As you ride, watch for parks dotted along the path—perfect spots to take in the stunning views and the lively urban environment. *FYI Exploring NYC’s Bike Trails... Plan Your Route: Use a cycling app to chart your path ahead of time. Knowing the trail helps ensure you hit all the highlights while keeping safe. Bring Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated, especially on longer rides. Carrying some snacks is also useful to replenish energy. Both parts of these tips can enhance your cycling experience. Knowing where bike amenities and rest areas are located can help you stay comfortable on your ride. "Discover NYC on Two Wheels" New York City is a thrilling place to explore on a bicycle. With a wide variety of bike trails tailored for all skill levels, from the peaceful paths of Central Park to the bustling waterfront of Brooklyn, there's something for every cyclist to enjoy. Each trail presents a unique experience, revealing the diverse beauty of NYC. Find joy in both the city’s rich history and its stunning landscapes as you ride. So gear up, hit the road, and uncover the hidden treasures that New York City offers for cyclists. Happy cycling!