As someone who loves being active, bike riding has always been one of my favorite pastimes. It’s not just about staying fit but also a way to explore the beauty and vibrancy of the outdoors. That is why I want to invite you to join me at this year’s Tour De Bronx on Sunday, October 6th, 2024. It’s an event that celebrates everything I love about biking—community, fitness, and the chance to experience the Bronx in a unique and meaningful way.
Join Me on the Ride!
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or hopping on a bike for the first time, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate biking and the Bronx together. I’ll be capturing my Tour De Bronx experience on video and I’d love to see you there!
Click here to register: Tour De Bronx Registration.
The Tour De Bronx is organized by The Bronx Tourism Council and supported by Transportation Alternatives and Bronx Borough President’s Office. Let’s ride together this Sunday and make this Tour De Bronx one to remember!
Why Bike Riding?
Besides being a fun way to get around, cycling offers incredible health benefits:
- Cardiovascular Health: Regular biking strengthens your heart, lungs, and muscles, improving overall circulation.
- Mental Wellbeing: Cycling can reduce stress, boost your mood, and sharpen mental clarity.
- Environmental Impact: Biking helps reduce your carbon footprint, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier planet.
Bike Safety and Infrastructure in the Bronx
The Bronx is in the midst of important cycling improvements, thanks to organizations like Transportation Alternatives. The Bronx/Uptown Activist Committee has been instrumental in pushing for safer streets by advocating for bike lanes and pedestrian plazas. One key initiative includes completing the Grand Concourse with protected bike paths, which will provide safer connections across the Bronx.
However, a major challenge for cyclists is the lack of secure bike parking, especially in low-income communities and communities of color. Many residents in these areas rely on bicycles for transportation, not just recreation, and better bike parking would encourage more people to ride. Advocates argue that the expansion of bike parking, especially near transit hubs, is essential for making biking more accessible.
Improving bike infrastructure—including protected bike lanes and parking—has many benefits. For local businesses, bicycle parking generates up to 3.6 times more revenue per square foot than car parking, making it a win for both cyclists and the community.
Explore the Bronx River Greenway
One of the highlights for cyclists in the Bronx is the Bronx River Greenway, a beautiful, scenic bike path that runs along the Bronx River. It’s a fantastic route for riders of all levels, whether you’re looking for a casual ride or a more challenging journey. The Bronx River Bicycling Guide offers detailed maps and route recommendations, as well as important information on how to stay safe while biking near the river. Whether you’re preparing for the Tour De Bronx or just looking for a weekend adventure, the Greenway is a must-ride.
- Bronx River Bicycling Guide: This guide is a must-read for exploring the Bronx River Greenway, with scenic bike paths, maps, and tips for safe biking in the area.
Support Local Bike Shops in the Bronx
We have some amazing small businesses in the Bronx that specialize in biking, providing everything from gear to repairs. Supporting these shops is a great way to keep the local economy rolling:
- Garcia’s Bicycle Shop (512 E 240th St): With 4.7 stars from 76 reviews, this shop is highly praised for its knowledgeable staff and excellent customer service.
- Castle Hill Bicycle Center (3467 E Tremont Ave Bronx): Another top-rated option with 4.4 stars from 163 reviews, Castle Hill Bicycle offers a range of bike services and products.
These shops not only provide excellent service but also help foster a biking community in our borough.
Biking-Friendly Cities Around the World
Bike-friendly cities like Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Portland have embraced cycling as a primary mode of transportation. These cities have shown how dedicated bike lanes, bike-sharing programs, and cycling infrastructure can enhance quality of life. Biking reduces traffic congestion, lowers pollution, and makes urban areas more livable. Check out these inspiring articles to learn more:
Connecting Community Entrepreneurs
A special shout out goes to Rhonda James and her team at E218 Events Management, who are handling the logistics of this year’s Tour De Bronx. Rhonda, who also serves on the selection committee for the Community Enterprise Accelerator (CEA), exemplifies the power of community-based entrepreneurship. Additionally, Ayanna Williams, who splits her time between E218 and Elevate Digital, has been integral to the event’s planning. Together, they highlight the strength and collaboration of local entrepreneurs in the Bronx, working to uplift our community and create amazing experiences like this event.