Annual Bike Tour Draws Over 32,000 Riders

This past Sunday, more than 32,000 cyclists participated in the annual five-borough bike tour. They took to the streets, racing against a rain shower that swept through the city later in the day.

The first group of riders set off from Lower Manhattan around 8:30 AM, navigating their way north through the city. They passed through Central Park before briefly crossing into the Bronx, eventually making their way back to Manhattan.

From there, the route led them south along the FDR Drive, over the Queensboro Bridge to Queens, then through Astoria and down toward Brooklyn. The journey wrapped up with a crossing of the Verrazzano Bridge to Staten Island.

Covering approximately 40 miles and five bridges, participants braved the elements, courageously cheering for the cyclists as they rode through. While rain was anticipated, it turned out to be mostly a light drizzle during the ride.

Having started in 1977 with just a handful of cyclists, this event has evolved. Now, it’s a beloved annual tradition among the city’s cycling enthusiasts.

Registration fees go toward bicycle education programs and advocacy for better bike infrastructure in New York City.