Follow live updates on the Five Boro Bike Tour 2025 as 30,000 cyclists take over NYC streets. Get route maps, traffic alerts, and festival highlights in this complete guide.
Five Boro Bike Tour Rolling Through NYC Today: Everything You Need to Know
Thousands of Cyclists Take Over New York Streets in Annual Celebration of City, Fitness, and Community
One of the largest recreational cycling events in the world, the TD Five Boro Bike Tour, is currently rolling through the heart of New York City, turning its bustling boroughs into a car-free cycling paradise. More than 30,000 riders are participating in the annual event, cruising through all five boroughs in a 40-mile route that showcases the city’s vibrant spirit and diverse communities.
Organized by Bike New York, this iconic tour isn’t a race—it’s a ride built on community, fitness, sustainability, and the thrill of pedaling through one of the world’s most dynamic urban landscapes.
Route Overview: From Lower Manhattan to Staten Island
The 40-mile route starts in Lower Manhattan, with cyclists pedaling north through Central Park, then east into the Bronx before heading south through Queens and Brooklyn, and finally crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge into Staten Island.
Five Boro Bike Tour 2025 Route Highlights
| Borough | Notable Landmarks Passed | Distance Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Manhattan | Battery Park, Central Park, Harlem | ~12 miles |
| Bronx | Madison Ave Bridge, Grand Concourse | ~3 miles |
| Queens | Astoria Park, Pulaski Bridge | ~8 miles |
| Brooklyn | Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, Bay Ridge | ~10 miles |
| Staten Island | Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Fort Wadsworth | ~7 miles |
Total Distance: 40 miles
Start Times & Wave Details
To ensure smooth flow, the tour begins in waves from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM. Riders are grouped based on their anticipated speed, with volunteers and marshals guiding participants throughout the route.
“We want every rider—from first-timers to seasoned cyclists—to enjoy a safe and inspiring experience,” said Ken Podziba, CEO of Bike New York.
Street Closures and Traffic Advisory
With an event of this magnitude, several streets and bridges will remain closed to vehicle traffic during the tour. NYPD has issued traffic advisories and detour suggestions.
Major Closures on May 5, 2025
| Location | Closure Time |
|---|---|
| FDR Drive (Southbound) | 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Queensboro Bridge | 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE) | 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge (Upper Level) | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
Motorists are advised to use alternate routes or public transit when traveling during tour hours.
Rider Voices and Community Vibe
From local New Yorkers to international visitors, the tour attracts a global cycling community. For many, it’s not just about riding—it’s about sharing the road with thousands of like-minded enthusiasts in a once-a-year celebration.
“It’s my third time riding the Five Boro, and it’s better every year,” said Samantha Morales, a participant from Jersey City. “Where else can you bike across the Verrazzano with zero cars?”
Community groups, cheer squads, and local bands line the route, turning the city into a moving festival of human energy.
A Focus on Sustainability and Health
Beyond the fun, the Five Boro Bike Tour promotes key messages about sustainable urban living and personal health. It raises funds for free bike education programs across NYC’s public schools, senior centers, and underserved communities.
Impact of the Tour
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Participants | 30,000+ |
| Funds Raised for Education | Over $1.5 million |
| Volunteer Staff | 2,000+ |
| Cities Represented | 45+ |
Safety Measures and Support
Riders are supported by over 200 bike mechanics, hydration stations, rest stops, and medical tents. Helmets are mandatory, and all participants are provided with route maps and emergency contact information.
“Safety is our top priority,” said Bike New York’s Event Director. “We’ve added more hydration points this year due to warmer temperatures.”
Finish Festival in Staten Island
After crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, cyclists are welcomed into Fort Wadsworth for the Finish Festival, complete with live music, food trucks, sponsor booths, and a collective sense of achievement.
Quick Tips for Spectators and Participants
| Tip | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Transit | Use subways or ferries—expect delays |
| Hydration | Drink water before and during the ride |
| Gear | Wear padded shorts, bring extra sunscreen |
| Photos | Best views from Central Park & Verrazzano |
| Hashtags | #FiveBoroBikeTour #BikeNYC #NYCBike2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Five Boro Bike Tour a race?
No, it’s a non-competitive recreational ride meant to promote fitness and city unity.
Can you still register for the event?
Registration for 2025 closed on April 25. Spectators are welcome to cheer riders on.
Are there age restrictions?
Riders must be at least 3 feet tall and able to ride 40 miles. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
How long does it take to complete the route?
Most riders complete the route in 4–6 hours, depending on pace and stops.
Conclusion: A Pedal-Powered Celebration of NYC
The Five Boro Bike Tour 2025 isn’t just a bike ride—it’s a moving tribute to the resilience, diversity, and vibrancy of New York City. As thousands ride through the city’s iconic streets, bridges, and boroughs, they leave behind not just rubber on the road but a shared sense of unity and purpose.
Whether you’re riding, volunteering, or just watching, today’s event reminds us that New York is at its best when it moves together—on two wheels.