Originally Posted by wfin2004
My semi annual trip to eastern PA is very near. I would like to make a trip to NYC as a sightseeing/biking gig. I have checked out Transportation Alternatives website which I liked and it was very informative. But I would like to know where to go for the great NYC rides around the city. Also any info on what to avoid, must sees, and possibly how to handle panhandlers would be appreciated. I would like to NOT look like a tourist, so help would be nice in this area. I went out to Wyoming a year ago wearing my normal Florida garb and felt like a moron because I did not have on my Cowboy Hat/ shirt/pants/ or boots. I don't do traffic very well as there is none where I ride here. Thanks for all your help. I admire you guys dealing with all that traffic up there. wfin2004
Alright here goes:
1. To not look like a Tourist - Why not? There are plenty of tourist in Manhattan so you won't look out of place. Trust me. Carry a small camera that fits in your pocket and leave that pouch so many tourists wear around their waist. It looks like you're carrying money.
Outside of Manhattan, things can get a little different. You should not wear your best clothes or cycling tights in poorer neighborhoods like the Bronx. It's not that you'll be robbed, but you might feel uncomfortable wearing a cowboy hat when everyone is wearing jeans, ball caps and sneakers.
2. Panhandlers - Just make no eye connection. New York City is loaded with panhandlers so you might not be able to avoid them. On the other hand, you'll deal with them less while riding a bicycle.
3. You don't do traffic very well ?? - I guess you came to the wrong city. You'll be walking and taking the subway because New York City is ALL about traffic. The only time traffic gets light is on a Sunday morning at 6:00 oclock! You'll get used to riding in traffic or else you'll be dependant on trains or buses.
4. Great Places to ride - There's Central Park and Prospect Park in Brooklyn. I think riding the Westside Bike path is fine and there are beaches Coney Island/Far Rockway/Long Beach. If you like Roller Coasters, the Cyclone in Coney Island will rip your head off!
5. Bikes/Trains - New York City will allow you to bring the bike on board all MTA trains. You'll need a bike pass ($5.00 Purchase at Grand Central Station) to board Metro North and the LI Rail road. Using the train REALLY opens up lots of destinations to visit that could take you all day riding.
Unfortunatly, the buses have no bike racks. Some lines do but they are scarce.
6. Bridges - Did you know that New York City has loads of bridges. I think some of the most breath taking views are on the bridges. Brooklyn/ Manhattan/ Queensborough/George Washington
7. The Tram - Don't foget to ride the tram to Roosevelt Island. You can take the bicycle on board too! It's incredible to fly in the air on that thing.
8. Must see - The Statue of Liberty. Too bad you can't go inside the head anymore. WTC - Take loads of pictures.
Well... That's enough for me.