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Riding a bicycle is a great way to stay in shape, conserve fossil fuels, and get the upper hand on rush hour traffic. However, not all big cities are equal when it comes to bicycling. New York City is one of the best places for people who can’t get enough of their eco-friendly, two-wheeled cycling companions.
Cycling PathsCycling Paths
The prospect of cycling in the city might intimidate you if you aren’t used to it. Before you hit the streets, you can sharpen your cycling skills on one of New York’s many bike trails. The West Side Highway bike path is an excellent place to spend quality time getting to know your bike. The path is roomy, and the scenery is spectacular.
Once you’re ready to go from leisurely biking to carrying out your everyday business via bike, you’ll find that the city has plenty of bicycling lanes, with even more bike lanes in the works. According to bicycling.com, “Plans call for 1,800 bike-lane miles by 2030, putting the city in league with cycling legends such as Paris.”
Citi BikeCiti Bike
Many cities have rideshare programs to get people cars when they need them. Bike-sharing programs are less common, but New York City has one, and it’s a great way to beat the traffic. The Citi Bike program has thousands of bicycles at hundreds of locations throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan. The bikes are adjustable for people of any height, so a plan is a fantastic tool for adults who want a quick, convenient, and fun way to navigate the city.
Another cool thing about the program is that it lets you keep up with the weather. If rain and grain skies move you to take the subway in the morning, you can use a shared bike on the return trip if Mother Nature decides to show some kindness in the afternoon.
A Quicker CommuteA Quicker Commute
Despite the nation’s growing eco-awareness and evolving public transportation systems, traffic congestion remains a stressful, headache-inducing problem for commuters. Thanks to New York City’s bike-friendly infrastructure, you can wave a friendly greeting at all those poor people stuck in their motor vehicles if you fly by on your bike.
Bye-Bye, Parking ProblemsBye-Bye, Parking Problems
Sometimes, finding a place to park in the city is impossible, and finding a place to park that won’t severely lighten your wallet is even more challenging. There is no shortage of places to leave your bicycle, freeing you from the terrors of parallel parking, racing to beat the meter, and squeezing into your vehicle when the person next to you misjudged the available space.
Soaking up the CitySoaking up the City
New York City streets are a feast for the eyes. Even residents don’t grow tired of the impressive architecture, fascinating people, and other beautiful sights. In an enclosed vehicle, it’s easy to miss such things. Once you become comfortable cycling through the city, you can deeply appreciate its personality and unique beauty.
There are plenty of reasons to love cycling, from the environmental aspects to what it can do for your leg muscles. There are even more reasons to love it if you live in New York City, one of the top places for bicycling.