I'm planning to visit a friend in NYC from the 6th to the 18th June and I am keen to explore the city by bike. Does anyone know of bike hire for extended periods that isn't going to cost a small fortune (the Aussie dollar is trading okay but not that good)?

I'm also keen to throw myself into the NYC bike culture whilst there. I've worked out there is the Tour de Brooklyn and the BFF on whilst I am there. Are there any other loosely organized bike rides (trying to avoid the tourist guides)? I'm also keen to do a lap of Manhattan - as far as it is possible. Any tips?

Finally, I work for the Amy Gillett Foundation - which works to reduce the incidence of death and injury caused by the interaction between cyclists and motorists. So let me know if you have any suggestions for people I could talk to get an idea of what sort of road safety programs are being run in NYC.