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I'm planning on doing the NYC five boro tour this May. Has anyone else has done it or will be doing it this year? There's a VIP registration for $160 and I was wondering if anyone knew if it was worth it?
Also, with 30,000 riders, is the start pretty chaotic??
Emily
Hi there,
I haven't done it myself, but I know of people who have. Apparently it's fun. I think you have to be patient when getting out of rest points or starting points, and of course, keep yourself at a safe distance from other cyclists. there are moments where it feels like chaos, but most people tell me they enjoyed it very much!
My neighbors have done it several times, with their kids. It is a MOB scene. DH wants to do it but it is SO crowded that it doesn't really appeal to me.
30000+ riders Even with roads closed to cars it's very very congested. My neighbors LOVE it. They say it's a blast so I guess it's all what you make of it :)
I did it last year, am planning on doing it again this year. It is chaotic at the start, we had to walk our bikes for the first mile or so because it was so crowded. After you hit Central Park things clear out and you have more space to ride. The rest stops were super crowded and we were glad we brought our own food/drink supplies so we didn't have to try and make our way through the crowds. It is an amazing way to see New York and I loved being able to bike through the city. You just have to be patient with the crowds and very aware of other cyclists.
I also have done this ride a few year ago. It is a fun ride and everything that Lisa B said. However, (not that I want the whole world to know this) but to get past that grid lock of cyclists in the beginning, take the other side roads that are parallel with the main road that you start on (I forget which it is). Like we rode past the Stock Exchange I remember. When you look down the side streets and see cylists are moving smoothly, go up the block and merge in. You will get to all the stop areas quicker and won't be in a grid lock everytime there is a stopping point.
I do not think the VIP is necessary. I might ride it with my brothers girlfriend this year because she never rode it and would like to try it. However, since that weekend has a history of not so nice weather, I might opt to register on that day, although, I am not crazy about the idea. I would not do the ride in rain.
Also, I recommend a bike with wider tires. I ride my mtn bike with smoother tires. You will be going over areas that have cobble stones.
JoAnn