How to plan the ultimate bike route in New York City: the Complete guide

With more than 1,000 miles of bike lanes, New York City is a paradise for cyclists!

Planning a perfect bike route in the Big Apple is essential whether you wish to have fun, get from one location to another, or even to work as a delivery rider.

This complete guide will walk you through all the steps of planning the ultimate bike route in NYC. We'll cover setting route goals, mapping logistics, gearing up, route types, safety tips, and more.

Choosing the best electric bikes allows you to get around more comfortably and relax while doing so.

All you’ll need is some preparation, and you’ll be able to cruise through the streets like a pro!

Let’s get started!

Getting Started with Route Planning

Before you make a final plan, you should define the type of route you want to take and obtain some necessary resources.

Here’s what that entails:

Obtain resources

• Get a map. Pick up a free NYC Bike Map at local shops, or download the NYC DOT bike map app for offline access. Study the bike lanes and paths across the city.
• Check apps. Apps like Google Maps, Strava, and Komoot have route-planning tools for cyclists.
• Review events. Check schedules for street festivals, parades, or other events that may close down streets and disrupt your trip.

Set route goals

• Total distance. Decide how many miles you wish to ride. This will shape the route length and location. If you’re using an e-bike, this can also determine the model you wish to ride.
• Destinations. Are there specific places you want to see on your ride, other than the final location?
• Loop or out-and-back. Loop routes allow you to see more. Out-and-back rides minimize new terrain.
• Theme. Do you wish to ride just to stay fit, or maybe want to get some scenic views or get some food? This can impact your whole trip.

Consider safety and ability level

• Road conditions. Bike lanes are the safest routes you can ride on. If you have to use roads, make sure there are no potholes.
• Fitness level. Not everyone can handle riding the same distances. Using an e-bike with throttle and pedal assist can help.
• Traffic. Look at traffic patterns along potential routes. Avoid excessively busy roads.
• Weather. It’s not nice nor safe riding in wind, rain and heat impact visibility. Have backup indoor spots.

Mapping Your Route

Once you've set some ride goals, it's time to start deciding on your specific route.

Choosing start and end points

• Make sure they are near bike lanes.
• Start somewhere you can easily access.
• End somewhere convenient so you can get home without issues.
• If driving, identify parking garages with bike access near the start and end points.

Incorporating scenic detours

• Go through scenic parks like Central Park, Prospect Park or the Hudson River Greenway.
• NYC is full of bridges. Ride over iconic locations like the Brooklyn Bridge for amazing views.
• Pass by museums, architectural highlights, and other sights if you want some cultural detour.

Planning loop routes

• Plan loop routes instead of out-and-back whenever possible. You'll see more sights if you’re going circular.
• Link park loops and waterfront paths together into larger loops.
• Design the loop to avoid retracing too many sections and to minimize repeats.

Have backup options

• Always prepare for a bad scenario. Map out 2-3 potential routes in case of street closures or other changes.
• Identify subway stations or CitiBike docks along the way in case you need to end your bike ride early. You never know what might happen.

Executing Your Route

Once you've decided on your route, make other logistical preparations to ensure your ride goes smoothly.

Bike inspection and gear

• Conduct a safety check. Inspect brakes, tires, gears. Make sure everything is working properly.
• Have a repair kit with you. Pack a saddlebag with a spare tube, tire levers, patch kit, pump, and multi-tool.
• Ensure you’re visible to drivers. Use lights and reflectors if riding at night or in low light.
• Hydration is important. Bring a water bottle and snacks to fuel your ride.

Navigation and apps

• Have your route mapped in a bike app that you can reference during your ride.
• Secure your phone to your handlebars for easy viewing, as you might not be able to use hands.
• Bring a backup charger for your phone - and for your e-bike, in case you’re not using a traditional vehicle.
• Download offline maps in case you lose cell service during the ride.

Safety and etiquette

• Always wear a properly fitted bike helmet. In case of some e-bikes, this might be required by law.
• Follow all traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
• Use bike hand signals for turns, watch for opening car doors, yield to pedestrians.
• Use bike racks or take your bike inside at stops to avoid theft.

Dealing with changes

• Be ready to detour around closed streets or paths. Having backups is always a good option.
• Take breaks as needed. End early if overly tired.
• Make sure to know where to fix your bike in case of emergencies. If your bike breaks down, walk to a bike shop or transit station.
• Seek shelter during storms. Return home if conditions worsen.

Types of Rides in NYC

Now let's explore some classic NYC bike routes from North to South, East to West, and along signature bridges, paths, parks, and waterfronts.

North-South routes

• Central Park Loop (6.1 miles)

A must-do route through the heart of Manhattan. Full of ponds, lawns, architecture and public art.

• Hudson River Greenway (14.5 miles)

Follow the waterfront path from the George Washington Bridge to Battery Park.

• Brooklyn Waterfront (5.5+ miles)

Ride along Brooklyn's coast from Greenpoint to Bay Ridge for epic views.

East-West routes

• Crosstown Protected Bike Lanes (7 miles)

Link the 1st, 2nd, 5th and 9th Ave protected bike lanes across Manhattan.

• Quintessential Queens (12 miles)

Ride through Long Island City, Astoria and Woodside for a taste of classic Queens.

• Cultural Brooklyn (8 miles)

See Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Museum, Botanic Garden and Grand Army Plaza in one ride.

Bridges and paths

• The Mighty 3 Bridge Ride (15 miles)

Ride over the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge for gorgeous vistas.

• FDR Boardwalk to Verrazano (20 miles)

Take in sparkling Lower NY Bay views as you beach hop to the giant Verrazano-Narrows Bridge.

• Grand Concourse to Minisink Valley Trail (30 miles)

Ride through the Bronx into northern Manhattan and connect with the scenic Minisink trail.

Parks and waterfronts

• The Great North Loop (35 miles)

From Yankee Stadium to Inwood Hill Park, this northern route loops through riverside parks and gardens.

• Eastern Island Odyssey (12 miles)

A family-friendly ride to Randall's Island, then Roosevelt Island via bike paths.

• Jamaica Bay Greenway (19 miles)

Cruise along the bay to see JFK Airport and the salt marshes of Gateway National Recreation Area.

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