• 27
  • April
    2011

As spring gets in full swing, many New York City bicyclists are looking forward to celebrating May as National Bike Month. While many commuter cyclists use their bikes for transportation year round, most riders will be dusting off their bicycles and readying themselves for a stretch of fine riding weather.

New York City boasts one of world's largest populations of bicyclers. The City itself has over 670 miles of bike lanes to accommodate two-wheeled travelers. Unfortunately, these bike lanes are often wrongfully invaded by motorists, putting the cyclist at threat of serious injury or death. While contentious debate continues on about what should be done to improve the safety of bicycling in NYC, bicycle accidents continue to plague riders. Bicyclists should use extra caution this time of year, as motorists aren't accustomed to 'looking for' bicycles in this early part of the bike season.

In New York City, there is no shortage of cycling events that bikers can participate in during May's Bike Month. Below is a calendar of the cycling community happenings for May in the NYC Area:

  • May 1 - TD Bank Five Boro Bike Tour. The nation's largest cycling event will boast 50,000 cyclists.
  • May 13 - East Coast Climate Ride. Starts in Manhattan, ends in D.C.
  • May 15 - Montauk Century. A scenic Long Island tour.
  • May 22 - The Bloomin Metric. Different length rides available through Fairfield County, Connecticut.
  • May 28-29 - Angel Ride. Ride through the rural Connecticut.

As you enjoy springtime from the perch of your bicycle, remember to be wary of motorists and always assume that they aren't looking out for you.

Source: bicyclehabitat.com, "2011 Event Calendar"