NEW YORK — Tens of thousands of cyclists from around the world hit the streets of New York on Sunday for the Five Boro Bike Tour.
A total of 32,000 cyclists embarked on the 40-mile journey which started in Lower Manhattan, then headed to the Bronx, through Queens and Brooklyn and ended in Staten Island.
“It’s great. The energy, the people, it’s a really cool community,” said Michael Sparling of Holbrook.
Beginners and veterans, experienced riders and newbies toured the city sights together.
“I like the idea that there are no cars, because it’s usually a little scary driving the streets here,” said Manhattan resident Elisha Stavropoulos.
🏍️🏍️Today is the 5-Boro Bike Tour🏍️🏍️
There are major closures throughout the city between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Motorists are strongly advised to use public transport or seek alternative routes.
Click the QR code to access the “NYC Bike Smart” guide for resources, tips and maps pic.twitter.com/hOzAye2g9w
— NYPD Transportation Office (@NYPDTransport) May 7, 2023
“I love it. I heard about it, I said New York was the place to go and try. Why not? So I’m from Toronto, Canada,” said Amit Chattoraj.
The event also supports the charity work of Bike New York.
“We provide more than 30,000 New Yorkers with free education. We teach them how to ride safely. We also train ex-incarcerated New Yorkers to become bike mechanics and then Citi Bike hires them” , said Bike New York President Ken. said Podzida.
This year marked the 45th year of the Five Boro Bike Tour. Adel Suwana was the millionth runner.
“I think it’s a really cool way to see New York in a bigger space, and I’ve never been to Staten Island, so this will be the first of many,” said another runner.
There is no other ride in the city like this, and no other day when the streets are so car-free.