May 5 marks the 46th Five Boro Bike Tour in the city. Less than a year after the New York City Marathon became a five-borough course, the city’s cyclists decided to do their own version of the idea.
The first Five Boro Bike Tour took place in 1977, with only around 200-250 participants. Now, over 32,000 riders take part in what organizers say is more of a community than a competition.
What is the Five Boro Bike Tour?
The Five Boro Bike Tour is the cyclist’s annual opportunity to enjoy 40 miles of car-free roads in the city, including the chance to ride on city highways.
Bike New York, the nonprofit that manages the tour, says it’s the largest charitable bike ride in the world, with the proceeds funding free bike education programs.
When is the bike tour?
The tour starts on the morning of Sunday, May 5. The first waves start as early as 7:30 a.m. All cyclists will set off by 10:30 a.m.
The time it takes to complete the tour depends on your bicycle and experience level. Most cyclists report anywhere between three to five hours.
Where does the tour take riders?
Cyclists start the 40-mile, traffic-free route by gathering in Lower Manhattan and making their way up Sixth Avenue. The tour stretches through Central Park and Harlem before briefly crossing into the Bronx. It then makes its way along FDR Drive before going across the Queensboro Bridge into Long Island City. Next is a trip across the Pulaski Bridge into Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Then, the tour travels onto the BQE and the Gowanus Parkway, and then heads onto the lower level of the Verrazzano Bridge and into Staten Island.
At the end of the line is the Finish Festival at Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island. Participants are treated to live music, food trucks and photo opportunities.
Are there any major street closures to be aware of?
Yes, there are a number of closures in each of the five boroughs. A full list can be found here.
Can I still sign up?
Unfortunately, registration closed on April 12, but there are spots in each borough for spectators to cheer on and support cyclists along the route.
Cheer zones include Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard in Harlem, 138th Street and Third Ave in Mott Haven, off the exit of the Queensboro Bridge in Long Island City, near Seventh Street in Williamsburg and at the finish line at Fort Wadsworth.
I’m already signed up, but I don’t know where my start point is. What do I need to do?
Those registered should have received their wave assignment, including their start time and point of entry to the route, via email. They were emailed out between April 26 and April 29.
Also included in the email are the times and location riders can pick up their participation packet. It includes the racer ID plate and helmet cover required to take part in the tour.
For all other questions on the tour, head here.