Hello. Following the HONOLULU CENTURY RIDE 2023, we are pleased to present the second edition of the “INFOGRAPHIC(*) GUIDE.”
*INFOGRAPHIC – A means of conveying information using illustration
This time, we’ll be discussing the upcoming “BIKE NEW YORK,” scheduled for May 5th this year (Sunday). This event is known as the largest cycling event in the Northern Hemisphere, held in New York City, USA. Officially named the “TD FIVE BORO BIKE TOUR” (with “TD” representing the main sponsor, TD Bank), it involves cycling through the five boroughs of New York City and is eagerly anticipated by riders from across the United States.
The inaugural event took place in 1977. At that time, it originated from a bicycle education program and had around 200 participants, consisting of high school students and members of bicycle clubs. The route circled the five boroughs, covering a distance of about 50 miles. However, the following year, with the change in New York City’s mayor, there was a push to promote cycling, leading to a shorter, more family-friendly route of approximately 40 miles (about 64 km in today’s distance). It was also during this year that the event was officially named the “FIVE BORO BIKE TOUR.”
The 2024 event marks the 46th edition.
Currently, it is organized by “Bike New York,” a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting cycling in New York City. To make the route safe and accessible for beginners and families, certain roads, highways, and bridges are closed to car traffic, allowing cyclists to participate with ease.
Let’s take a look at the route.
Departure is from Battery Park in downtown Manhattan. We’ll head north through Central Park from 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), then loop around the Bronx, Queens, and Brooklyn before finishing in Staten Island. The hidden gem of this route, crossing five bridges to cover all five boroughs! With manageable inclines, you’ll experience the diverse New York City landscape as you pass through each borough. Enjoy the skyline and Brooklyn Bridge views while casually biking through the fresh greenery of New York at your own pace.
There’s also a wide variety of rental bikes available, making it the perfect lineup for enjoying your ride. Of course, many riders bring their own bikes, and you can also spot stylish New York-style ride styles. It’s interesting to see participants paying attention to design as well.
Text_ Mayumi Kamura
Infographic_ Jun Otake
Post Date：2024.04.17
