To me, the CitiBike system in New York City is the perfect subway alternative. I found that by bicycling through the city, I was able to learn the layout of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

However, the streets of New York are anything but peaceful, and I had my fair share of frustration and stress while pedaling through the concrete jungle. In a matter of 6 months, I was hit by three taxis and collided with a pedestrian twice. In order to make the streets safer for bicyclists, vehicles, and pedestrians, I've listed my Top Tips For Cycling in the City. 

  1. Buy a helmet (and wear it!). 
  2. Always add an extra 10 minutes to your ride. Not only will you feel less panicked about being on time somewhere, but you'll have extra time to freshen up before heading into a meeting or lunch date (and ladies, if it's in the summer you'll need time to cool down and look like less of a sweaty mess).
  3. Never assume a pedestrian sees you coming down the street. Most of the time people are only looking to avoid cars, and will step off the sidewalk right in front of you. The worst area for me is in Soho; basically anytime the bike lane is between the sidewalk and a traffic median, there will be a tourist walking blindly across the lane. 
  4. Keep your CitiBike key on your keychain or in your everyday wallet. You never know when you'll want to ride a bike, and it's important to have it with you just in case the moment strikes. 
  5. Make sure your bell on the bicycle works. The CitiBike crew does a great job of maintaining and fixing the bicycles throughout the city, but there are still problems that can go unnoticed. That bell is a lifesaver!
  6. Don't be afraid to yell "Bike!" 
  7. Avoid biking through Times Square at all costs. Honestly, most of the time if I have to bike past Times Square I'll hop off my bike and walk it till 39th street (or uptown till 45th).
  8. Download the CitiBike App on your phone. There are plenty of bike stations in the city, but sometimes the stations are full and you will need to find another spot to dock the bike. This can be a frustrating mess, or it can be as easy as checking the App on your phone. 
  9. Anticipate, and don't hesitate. For example, if you see a taxi cab in the bike lane, assume that the car door will open up right in front you. It's better to be overly cautious when riding through the city.
  10. Enjoy the freedom and stimulation of cycling through the bustling streets of NYC! And stay safe!