Five Borough Bicycle Club - New York

These were rides in May-June 2012. Click here for upcoming rides.

These are upcoming rides. You can also visit the rides archive or see the full May-June 2012 listings.

Please note that helmets are required on all 5BBC rides.

Indicates relaxed pace, easy ride

For more information, please see:

Ride locations - where do we meet?
Subway service advisories - can I get there?
MTA bridge and tunnel advisories - can I go there?
Bulletin board - is my ride cancelled?
DayTripper column - periodic yammerings from the Day Trips Coordinator
More about day rides - what to bring on rides, what's that smiley thing, participants under age 18, bike access on trains
Rides archive - what we did last month, and last year

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Saturday, May 5, 2012

[CANCELED] MONTAUK TRAINING RIDE # 14 : LLOYD NECK

7:45 AM, Cunningham Park, Union Turnpike & 196 PL, Queens, 85 miles

Not for beginners. This ride is hilly and technical and you must be able to keep a good pace. There is no Point/Drop/Sweep and we ride as a group. No separate Quick Spin. Pack some snacks for the trip, in case you need extra energy, and plenty of water so you avoid the leg cramps. Warning, not for beginners! Bring $ for lunch and MTA Bike permit.
Leaders: Steve Levine & TBD

THE BLESSING OF THE BIKES

9:30 AM, The Cathedral of St. John the Divine, 112 St & Amsterdam Ave, Manhattan leisurely pace. Less than 10 miles

See www.theblessingofthebikes.com After the blessing, approx 10 AM, join Ed & Liz as we ride down from the Blessing of the Bikes to the NY Bike Expo. www.bikenewyork.org
Leaders: Liz Baum & Ed Pino

Sunday, May 6,2012

BIKE NEW YORK

[CANCELED] OFF-ROAD RIDE TO NYACK QUICK SPIN

8:30 AM, GWB Bus Terminal, 178th St and Fort Washington Ave (NE Corner), 55 miles, 15 mph pace

We'll head to an off-road trail along the Hudson in Nyack.No Point/Drop/Sweep. Hybrid, cyclecross or mountain bikes are needed. Great thrills and no chills!
Leaders: Jesse Brown and Rodney Millard

Saturday, May 12, 2012

MONTAUK TRAINING RIDE # 15 : EATON'S NECK

7:30 AM, Cunningham Park, Union Turnpike & 196 Pl, Queens 90 miles

The scenery of the North Shore expands on this beautiful trip and the main century event is only a week away. If you can handle this 90 miler you'll have no trouble with the full century coming up. We ride as a group. No point/Drop/Sweep.Check 5BBC Bulletin Board day before ride for possible updates. Bring snacks, money for lunch in Northport and MTA Bike permit.
Leaders: Dennis Griffin & TBD

THE LOTTERY RIDE QUICK SPIN

8:30 AM, GWB Bus Terminal, 178th St and Fort Washington Ave (NE Corner) , 50 miles

We will maintain a 15 mph pace with no Point/Drop/Sweep as we travel to three States in quest of our (Lottery) fortunes. Whatever your aim may be you will enjoy! This ride has been popular for years.
Leaders: Jesse Brown and Rodney Millard

BROOKLYN SIDES AND SUBS

9:30 AM, Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn (entrance to Prospect Park), 40 flat miles,moderate pace

Nottingham,Fiske Terrace,Futurama & more. No,you're not in Merry Olde England or cycling in a space station, but meandering through the side streets through the sub-neighborhoods of Brooklyn. See interesting,quiet streets (and lots of Stop signs) amidst the changing,diverse and often lesser-known areas of Brooklyn. A somewhat different route than last year. An opportunity for a snack and then late lunch in Mill Basin. Bring lock and money for snack/lunch in Mill Basin. In case of iffy weather check Bulletin Board or follow billm45s on Twitter.
Leaders: Bill Mastro and Fritz Van Orden

Sunday, May 13, 2012

OUT TO LONG ISLAND QUICK SPIN

8:30 AM, Bridgemarket, 1st Ave & E. 59 St, Manhattan (outside STARBUCK'S), 50 miles, 15 mph pace

No Point/Drop/Sweep. We'll be on lightly-trafficked roads on greenways and bike lanes- the way to do exploring!
Leaders: Jesse Brown and Rodney Millard

MONTAUK METRIC TRAINING # 4: PIERMONT

9:00 AM, Columbus Circle, Manhattan, 50 miles

Our metric series concludes with an old standard - Piermont, NY. Enjoy the hills,green pastures and river views. We'll visit the pier that extends nearly a mile into the mighty Hudson. Bring lunch money.
Leaders: Julie Blackburn and Kathryn Baur

RIDE THE OLD PUT AND OLD CROTON AQUADUCT

9:30 AM, Van Cortlandt Park, 242nd St & Broadway, Bronx

Off-road vistas ride. It's almost May 10th, the perfect day to honor a railroad that belongs to history. Take a ride on the Old Put Railroad and see what was. Lunch is at a waterfall spilling from a lake over a dam. After we go far enough north we'll turn around and take the original NYC water supply- the Old Croton Aqueduct back south. There's nothing like wheeling through the woods. Hybrid or Mountain bikes are strongly recommended.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBD

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Day (Evening) Ride

RIDE OF SILENCE - NYC

6:30 PM at Pier 40 in Hudson River Park, Hudson River Greenway & W. Houston St., 10 miles, moderate pace. Rain or Shine.

This is one of the hundreds of free Rides of Silence around the world that will honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while riding public roadways. The 5BBC will host the NYC ride. Besides honoring these cyclists, the purpose of the ride is to show how we can all share the road. Riders will be given black armbands and will ride quietly as a parade group. Please wear a helmet and bring front & rear lights for evening riding.

Saturday, May 19, 2012

SPECIAL FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS QUICK SPIN

8:30 AM, Pelham Parkway & White Plains Road (SE Corner), Bronx

Cycling events designed for vigorous individuals with adventure in heart. We'll keep an average pace of 15 mph with no Point/Drop/Sweep. Meet at start location 8:30 AM sharp. Work your bodies;the payback is great!
Leaders: Jesse Brown and Rodney Millard

QUEENS WAY RIDE

9:30 AM, Union Square North @ Park Ave, Manhattan; 11-11:15 AM @ Shalimar Diner,Austin St & 63 Dr, Queens, 25 leisurely paced miles.

Join friends of Queens Way, The Queens Committee of Transportation Alternatives, and 5BBC in a Bike Month celebration ride from Rego Park to Ozone Park in honor of the future route of the Queens Way: the proposed bikeway, linear park, and rail trail atop the abandoned Rockaway Beach Branch railroad. After several stops, and brief hikes onto the rail line, some of us will then travel to Rockaway Beach for a shindig hosted by Green Drinks. Note: ride officially ends at Hamilton Beach where you can take the A train back to Manhattan. Peter Beadle of Friends of Queens Way will accompany us.
Leaders: Leo Cairo and Josh Gosciak

Sunday, May 20, 2012

5BBC MONTAUK CENTURY

The 5BBC's main event- ride 65, 100, or 145 miles to the far end of Long Island. See http://5bbc.org/montauk for more information

Saturday, MAY 26,2012

THE FORTS OF QUEENS

8:30 AM, Kew Gardens, Queens, 45 miles. Quick Spin Pace +15 mph

A north/south crossing of Queens. We'll head north to Fort Totten before turning back to Ft Tilden near Breezy Point.Bring $ for lunch, water bottles(s) and a good attitude. Check 5BBC Bulletin Board the day before for possible updates
Leaders: Dennis Griffin & TBD

SPECIAL FAMILY AND NEIGHBORS QUICK SPIN

8:30 AM, Pelham Parkway & White Plains Road (SE Corner), Bronx

Cycling events designed for vigorous individuals with adventure in heart. We'll keep an average pace of 15 mph with no Point/Drop/Sweep. Meet at start location 8:30 AM sharp. Work your bodies;the payback is great!
Leaders: Jesse Brown and Rodney Millard

Sunday, May 27,2012

[CANCELED] FIVE TOWNS RIDE

9:30 AM, Cunningham Park Parking Lot at Union Turnpike & 196 Pl, Queens 40 miles,moderate pace and flat terrain

This is a mostly flat ride through Floral Park in Queens which winds through the quiet residential streets of the five town neighborhoods along the South shore of Long Island. Lunch at a local pizzeria. Bring $ for lunch and a light bike lock.
Leaders: Claire Mordas and Bob Castro

SPECIAL FAMILY AND NEIGHBORS QUICK SPIN

8:30 AM, Pelham Parkway & White Plains Road (SE Corner), Bronx

Cycling events designed for vigorous individuals with adventure in heart. We'll keep an average pace of 15 mph with no Point/Drop/Sweep. Meet at start location 8:30 AM sharp. Work your bodies;the payback is great!
Leaders: Jesse Brown and Rodney Millard

SNUG HARBOR & CHINESE SCHOLAR GARDEN

10:00 AM, CITY HALL PARK, 20 miles

We'll take the PATH from the WTC to the wilds of N.J. Then bike down to and over the Bayonne Bridge to Staten Island. There will be our destination, Sailors Snug Harbor & the Chinese Scholar Garden in only a few miles more. The sprawling, historic, beautiful and former retirement home for sailors boast buildings with truly breathtaking details.To put a cherry on top there is the Chinese Scholars Garden. Visit www.snug-harbor.org for details.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBD

Monday, May 28, 2012

PALISADES PARK AND SO ON!

9:30 AM, City Hall Park, 35 miles

Ya gotta love Jersey! It's got some really great stuff, including a fabulous view of the harbor. We'll enjoy the Hudson Fiord at the waterline, then from the GWB and finally from the majestic heights of the Palisades. Cruise through Hoboken, maybe imbibe after the ride. Cross the Hudson one more time and watch the sun go down on the most magnificent city that God ever allowed humans to create.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBD

Saturday, June 2, 2012

[CANCELED] FLAT TRAILS AND STEEP CLIMBS - TARRYTOWN TO COLD SPRING

8:30 AM, Grand Central Terminal (for 9:00 AM Train to Tarrytown), or 9:35 AM at Tarrytown Station, 55 miles, 12-14 mph Pace

We're bringing back last year's popular through-the-woods-and-over-the-mountain ride. From the Tarrytown Metro North station, we'll ride (or push) one steep mile, then ride a relatively flat 28 miles on the scenic North Westchester County and Putnam rail trails, with a deli stop in Yorktown Heights. At Carmel we will take Highway 301 and the scenic but serious climb over the Taconics (13 mile climb, 5 mile descent) to Cold Spring and take Metro North back to Tarrytown or Manhattan. Bring $21.25 for train fare, $ for lunch and your MTA Bike Permit.
Leaders: Fritz Van Orden, Bill Mastro and Howard Hall

ROAD REPAIR SECRETS REVEALED

9:15 AM, Kew Gardens (Union Turnpike & Queens Blvd) at Statue Of Civic Virtue, Queens [CLASS IS FULL]

We'll be leaving at 9:30 AM sharp for a location in Flushing Meadow Park. The 5BBC's repair man will reveal his secrets for: making bikes with simple flats roadworthy without benefit of spare tubes in under 10 minutes; reattaching broken chains before one's eyes; making cut tires rideable through incantation to the US Postal Service; straightening taco'ed wheels with only his feet and magic spoke wrench, and many more wonderous tricks to fix bikes before the Sag Wagon arrives. Minor tricks like centering brakes, silencing chattering derailleurs and patching tubes while still on your bike will be explained. This is a Workshop. You will perform each of these feats yourself by the end of the day. The next time you're on a 5 BBC ride, you will be able to perform these same feats on a tripper's bike. Bring a bike and the following if at all possible: set of 3 tire irons, 2 patch kit boxes (one with rounded edges), frame pump with adaptors for Schraeder AND Presta valves, a pair of folding scissors, set of metric Allen Keys, set of Metric Socket Wrenches, spoke Wrench, chain rivet tool, tie wraps of various sizes, 6-inch adjustable (crescent) Wrench and a set of pliers for gripping cables. We will supply glue and patches for punctured tubes, the abrasive for the tube to hold the patches, booting material, a magic-finder of embedded glass and a special Hole Indicator Tool. There is a limit of 10 participants. Advance signup is required. Priority to Road Leaders on the Mattituck Ride. Session runs from 10 AM to 3 PM with a break for lunch. Location of Workshop will be sheltered in the event of rain. RSVP: bikecourse@5bbc.org
Leaders: Steve Bauman & TBA

Sunday, June 3, 2012

THREE MUSEUMS

9:00 AM, City Hall, Manhattan, 25 miles, 10-12 mph pace

Three Museums/Mansions/Homes. All in Manhattan. All here before the Civil War, except the one in a different place from where it was built and moved to. Two before there was a United States. Two wrapped up deeply in American history. Minor to zero entrance fees. Our city is 400 years old. You think it doesn't have history? In one place a Founding Father fulfills his dream for his family. While in another, his son revenges his death. In another nature shows us how to really live, simply and beautifully. Come find out what astounding things we Americans can do when we decide to. Bring lock, $ for food.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

Saturday, June 9, 2012

QUEENS TREASURES

10:00 AM, Cunningham Park, Queens, 30 miles

More a tour than a ride through Queens, hitting some of the borough's unusual or forgotten places. Many stops. Bring money for lunch. We plan to visit the Botanical Gardens, a 2, 000 year-old Roman column, a Kung Fu temple, the Lemon Ice King of Corona and more. Back around 4 PM.
Leaders: Randy Horowitz and TBA

Sunday, June 10, 2012

PATERSON FALLS RIDE

10:00 AM, GWB Bus Terminal, Fort Washington Ave & 178 St, (NE Corner), Manhattan, 30 miles, leisurely pace

We ride to one of the East Coast's wonders of the world, the Paterson Falls, and indulge in labor history at the turn of the century. Plan for several hours out of the saddle as we make stops in town and at a museum or two. Multiple early return options via NJ Transit.
Leaders: Josh Gosciak and Alfredo Garcia

BRONX PERIMETER

9:00 AM, NY AYH Hostel, 103rd St. & Amsterdam Ave, Manhattan, 30 miles, leisurely pace

Tour the Bronx on the edge. Pass Yankee Stadium. Climb through Riverdale. Take bike paths through the woods. See a fort. And more. Bring lock and money for lunch.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

Saturday, June 16, 2012

SLAVES OF SLEEPY HOLLOW

10 AM, Van Cortlandt Park (West 242nd St and Broadway), Bronx, 35 miles, rolling terrain with a few steep hills

Follow the scenic Hudson River up to Philipsburg Manor in North Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow, an 18th century grist mill powered by slave labor. Now a Museum, visitors will get an unvarnished appreciation of life on a colonial farm. Return route will use the car free (and paved) South County Trailway. Bring $12 museum admission; bring or buy lunch. Inclement weather may cancel ride, please check 5bbc.org at 8 AM for ride update and status.
Leaders: Ken Williams & Ed Ravin

FARM JAZZTASTIC QUEENS

9:30 AM, Bridgemarket (1st Ave & East 60 St, NE Corner), Manhattan, 40 miles

We'll roll through the history and diversity of Queens, visiting the latest addition of historic districts of the city where lived the Jazz legends of the 1930's. Also the only working historical farm in the city that dates back to 1697. We'll Stroll round and about Queens Flushing Meadow Park home of the Queens Museum and Unisphere in order to get to the Louis Armstrong House Museum. This is a Happy Face ride, suitable for beginners. Bring $ for food/museum and a bike lock.
Leaders: Leo Cairo & Fritz Van Orden

CLEARWATER HUDSON RIVER REVIVAL

8:30 AM SHARP!, Grand Central Terminal, Manhattan, 25 miles, flat to rolling terrain with one big hill

Our 24th annual day-long summer retreat to this classic folk music festival returns! We'll board Metro North for the 8:45 AM train to White Plains, then cycle to Croton Park with return trip to NYC by train. Enjoy 5 stages of music, non-stop dancing, crafts, activities, stories, souvenirs, and of course food. Scheduled performances include Arlo & Family, Tom Paxton, Tom Chapin, David Amram, Jay & Molly and special tributes to Woody. Note: ride participants are strongly urged to purchase festival tickets in advance. See www.mta.info for package deals or www.clearwaterfestival.org Festival and bike ride are Rain or Shine. Free valet parking available via our friends at Times Up (www.times-up.org). And who will be the recipient of this year's ride dedication? Bring $20 for train fare , MTA Bike Permit, sunscreen.
Leaders: Ted Kushner & Brian Hoberman

Sunday, June 17, 2012

FIVE TOWNS RIDE

9:30 AM, Cunningham Park Parking Lot at Union Turnpike & 196 Pl, Queens, 43 flat miles, moderate pace

This is a mostly flat ride through Floral Park in Queens and winding through the quiet residential streets of the Five Towns area along the south shore of Long Island. We will pick up lunch at a deli and eat at a local park. Bring $$ for lunch.
Leaders: Claire Mordas and Bob Castro

HUDSON RIVER MUSEUM

9:30 AM, Plaza Hotel, 5th Ave & 59th St, Manhattan, 30 miles, 10-12 mph pace

We'll ride through Central Park and up the center spine of Manhattan. We'll cross the Harlem river into the Bronx, follow Broadway through Yonkers and spend a little time on the Old Croton Aqueduct till we reach the Hudson River Museum. This is not just as museum. It's also a Mansion and a planeterium. So, bring your inquisitiveness, $6.00 (?) for admission, lunch or money to buy it, lock and MTA Bike permit (for Metro North) in case you have to bag-it. Some hills, road bikes OK (?). Maybe a bonus additional museum.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

Saturday, June 23, 2012

STATEN ISLAND CONFERENCE HOUSE

Please note new meeting times: 8:45 AM, South Ferry (bicycle waiting area), Manhattan, or 9:30 AM at St. George Ferry Exit, Staten Island, 40 miles, moderate pace

Join us for an early summer ride through one of our favorite boroughs. We'll cycle to the other end of the island, pick up some food and enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds of the Conference House. See http//www.conferencehouse.org Bring money, cable lock and spare tubes. Rain at start cancels.
Leaders: Andrea Casertano and Susan Levine.

NORTH AND SOUTH COUNTY TRAILWAY RAMBLE

7:30 AM, Grand Central Terminal (for 7:48 AM train to Brewster), 60 miles, few hills, 15 mph pace

Let's celebrate the longest day of the year by taking the train to Brewster and riding the North and South County Trailway back to Manhattan. This is a scenic summer time ride that is nearly all greenway and always a load of fun. We will stop for lunch along the way. Bring $ for food, MTA Bike Permit and train fare. If you are coming please RSVP to Julie at jmpblack@aol.com no later than June 16th (we will need to make arrangements with Metro North).
Leaders: Julie Blackburn and Jim Zisfein

THE MERMAID PARADE RIDE RETURNS...WITH A TWIST

11 AM City Hall or 11:30(ish) Grand Army Plaza for 25 to 30 miles at a moderate 12 to 14 mph

We're going to Coney Island, where there will be options to take a dip, enjoy Nathans, or join the parade, pre-register, or simply bring your costume, camera, and join the revelry. We will observe the parade for about an hour or more, depending on the level of debauchery, (for some it may be too much, for others it may not be enough) until we cruise back to Manhattan and various drop-offs in Brooklyn. Bring a spare tube or two, sunscreen, lunch or money for it. Leaders: Ken Williams & TBA

Sunday, June 24, 2012

BICYCLE BEACH BUMS

9:30 AM, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 30 miles, moderate pace

Join us for our first beach ride of the summer. We will be riding to Neponsit Beach in the Rockaways, taking mostly deserted streets. Bring a lock and all your usual beach gear. We'll stop to pick up lunch and then eat on the beach. Remember- Bring a camera!
Leaders: Claire Mordas and Bob Castro

WOODLAWN CEMETERY TOUR

9:00 AM, NY AYH Hostel, 103rd St & Amsterdam Ave., 30 miles, leisurely pace

Woodlawn Cemetery - come join the celebration of living history, at New York's second oldest cemetery. We visit not only the past but an outstanding venue for reflection, peace and beauty. We may get a guided tour.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

BRONX RIVER PARKWAY AND CRANBERRY LAKE

9 AM, Jerome and Bainbridge Aves, Bronx (last stop on #4 subway, Woodlawn), 42 scenic miles with a few steep hills

The Bronx River Parkway is closed to cars on Bicycle Sundays - imagine the Central Park loop, unwound in a straight line, with waterfalls and ponds alongside it, and without any joggers or tourists. We'll take that scenic, car-free route along with additional paved paths by the river on our way to Cranberry Lake, a forested nature preserve. During lunch break, riders can take an optional 40-minute walk around the lake. And after lunch, we'll ride over the panoramic Kensico Dam Road, which has just been re-opened after six years of construction. 44% car-free route! Bike paths used are paved and suitable for road bikes. If you ride with cleats, bring appropriate footwear to change into for the walk in the woods. Bring or buy lunch.
Leaders: Ed Ravin & Leo Cairo

Saturday, June 30, 2012

SLEEPY HOLLOW TOUR

8:15 AM, Columbus Circle, Manhattan, 60 hilly miles, 12 mph pace

We will head north to Sleepy Hollow, with plenty of hills and Hudson River views along the way. After lunch at a site of historic espionage, legendary fright and contemporary country commerce (a prize to the first email registrant to work out the riddle!), we will visit the Union Church of Pocantico Hills with its beautiful stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall and Henri Matisse commissioned by the Rockefeller family. Moderate pace; fewer hills on the way back. Be prepared to carry your bike up and down some stairs. Bring: lightweight lock, lunch or money for it, $5 admission to visit Church, plenty of water and MTA Bike Permit (just in case). We leave promptly at 8:30 AM. If you are coming please RSVP to Carolyn at carolyn.jacobs@yahoo.com no later than June 23th (we will need to confirm our reservation to visit the church and let them know how many are coming).
Leaders: Carolyn Jacobs and Geoff Cohen

A FAMILY AFFAIR IN YELLOW HOOK

9:30 AM, Grand Army Plaza (Entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 30-35 miles, moderate pace

More Brooklyn neighborhoods, more excellent Brooklyn food, as we make our way through a variety of Brooklyn neighborhoods and eventually stop by the excellent Mediterranean food store in Bay Ridge known as THE FAMILY STORE to pick up lunch, which we'll eat in Owl's Head Park. Possible weather issues, check the bulletin board early morning of the ride or follow billm45s on Twitter for an update.
Leaders: Bill Mastro and Claire Mordas

WINGDALE-SHARON-AMENIA LOOP

7:15 AM, Grand Central Terminal (Information Booth), Manhattan or 10:00 AM Metro North Harlem Valley Wingdale Station. 50 miles, Quick Spin Pace of +16 mph, moderate hills with one moderate climb

Enjoy a full day in the countryside of eastern New York and western Connecticut. We will meet at Grand Central Terminal for a 7:48 AM train to Wingdale, New York. From there we ride through bucolic countryside and quaint New England towns. There are some unpaved, hard packed roads but road bikes can easily navigate the entire route. At the end of the ride we will optionally stop at BIG W's ROADSIDE BAR-B-QUE in Wingdale before hopping on Metro North for the ride back home. Bring MTA Bike Permit, $31.50 for round trip train fare, plenty of water and snacks, $ for lunch and post ride barbeque. Don't forget your spirit of Adventure!. This is a Quick Spin ride. No Point/Drop/Sweep.
Leaders: Howard Hall and Dalah Del Prado

NEW AND IMPROVED PIERMONT - MAYBE NYACK

9:30 AM, Eleanor Roosevelt Statue, 72 St & Riverside Dr, Manhattan, 48-58 miles, 15 mph pace

Let's play it by ear. We will ride to Piermont for sure with a new and improved route that takes advantage of more quiet residential streets. Lunch at the gazebo. But if the weather is good and we have a lot of energy we will add on a few extra miles and pedal to Nyack where we will have lunch at one of the many great places there. Bring lunch money, spare tubes and a good attitude.
Leaders: Julie Blackburn & TBD

Sunday, July 1, 2012

UNDER AND OVER THE HUDSON

9:00 AM, City Hall (foot of the Brooklyn Bridge), Manhattan, 25 miles, leisurely pace

PATH train to Hoboken. Up the Hudson. Up one !@#$%^&* Hill. Over the GWB & on to Seinfeld's, etc. Lunch @ a weird fountain. Ride down the I 95 for cyclists, the West Side Bike Path back to City Hall.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

BICYCLE BEACH BUMS

10:00 AM, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 30 miles, leisurely pace, flat terrain

Join this 5BBC summer classic! We will travel to Neponsit Beach in the Rockaways on mostly deserted streets. Bring your usual beach gear and bike lock. We will pick up lunch and eat it on the beach. Bring lunch or money for lunch. Don't forget to bring a camera!
Leaders: Brian Hoberman and TBA

PICNIC ON THE HUDSON - KINGSLAND POINT PARK

10:00 AM, RING Garden (Dyckman / 200 St @ Broadway), Manhattan, 35 miles

We'll head up north just beyond Sleepy Hollow to scenic Kingsland Point Park, right on the Hudson, for our picnic lunch. We'll use the roads and the Aqueduct trail, so extreme racing tires are not recommended. Predicted rain or exteremly high heat index will shorten or cancel ride. If in doubt after checking forecast call Maggie @ 212 567-8272 after 8:30 AM the morning of the ride.
Leaders: Maggie Clarke and Fred Diekamp

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

AROUND AND UNDER THE HUDSON

8:45 AM, City Hall (foot of the Brooklyn Bridge), 9:15 AM South Ferry, Manhattan, 25 miles, 12 mph pace

Ride along the west side of Staten Island. Cross the Bayonne Bridge. Visit the 9/11 Memorial (a gift from the Russian people) & Liberty State Park. PATH from Hoboken to the WTC. God Bless America.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

NJ WATERFRONT FIREWORKS

12:45 PM, South Ferry (Bike Waiting Area @ ferry terminal), 20 leisurely miles

A leisurely July 4th holiday ride and celebration along the recently reclaimed New Jersey waterfront with ample and scenic photo ops along the way. Bring your camera, sunblock and happy attitude! Follow the coastline from the Bayonne waterfront through Constable Hook, the Hudson Waterfront Walkway, the Venice-like Liberte Marina, the exclusive Liberty National Golf Course, then onto Liberty National Park right next door to the Statue of Liberty. Ride ends at Exchange Place at 6 PM, but some of us will continue onwards- having dinner, exploring Hoboken's revitalized waterfront parks, piers, shops, restaurants, an Irish pub or two, and the mysterious Sibyl Cave, high atop Hoboken with a spectacular view of the fireworks at 9 PM. Bring bike lights- especially if you're staying late!
Leaders: Ken Williams and Josh Gosciak

FANTASTIC QUEENS

9:30 AM, Bridgemarket (1st Ave and E. 60 St, NE Corner), Manhattan, 25 miles

Let’s celebrate Independence day and Louis Armstrong Birthday rolling thru Queens, visiting very green parks in the most diverse of our boroughs. Strolling round and about Queens Flushing Meadows Park discovering interesting things that are part of the history of the park where took place two different world fairs (not just the Unisphere is amazing). We'll stop and visit Queens Museum, home of the NYC panorama and time to check their current exhibition "Carribean Crossroads" after we're going to the Louis Armstrong House Museum to celebrate his birthday taking a very special house tour that includes rare, personal audioclips of Louis himself celebrating his birthday. Happy Face Ride. Bring $ for food/museum and bike lock. Starts 9:30 am/Meeting at the Bridgemarket (East 60th and First Avenue) Rain at the beginning hour cancels.
Leaders: Leo Cairo and Martial Henrys

Saturday, July 7, 2012

RIDE AROUND JAMAICA BAY WITH ON-THE-ROAD REPAIR TIPS

9:00 AM, Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn (entrance to Prospect Park)

Come join us for a lovely ride around Jamaica Bay. We'll travel on bike paths and greenways over the many bridges with great views of the bay and ocean. Jesse will be teaching the basics of road repair. We'll either picnic or have lunch at THE WHARF in Rockaway. Bring lock, lunch money and spare tube(s). Rain at start cancels.
Leaders: Jesse Brown and Andrea Casertano.

THE EAST BRONX SHORE BUSTERS II

9:00 AM, Union Square North (17 St) & Park Ave or 10:00 AM entrance to RFK Bridge Bike Path (E.124 St & 2 Ave), Manhattan, 20 miles, leisurely pace

Back by popular demand, a leisurely paced ride along the easternmost shore of the Bronx and Long Island Sound from Ward's Island, Soundview Park, Pugsley Creek, Throgs Neck Bridge and terminating at Locust Point where we'll dine Italiano at the world famous Ice House. Return to Manhattan via #6 train at Westchester Square.
Leaders: Ken Williams and Josh Gosciak

Sunday, July 8, 2012

THE BROOKLYN WATERFRONT GREEENWAY

9:00 AM, Hunter's Point Ave. on the #7 train. Corner of Jackson & Hunter's Point Ave, Long Island City, Queens, 22 miles one way, 30 miles with return, leisurely pace

We'll explore and ride the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway Project. Learn what these cycling pioneers are creating. This is the way the bicycling community got so much of what we enjoy today. We'll go all the way to Owlshead Park. If you like it and get inspired, lend a hand and leave your mark. See http//www.brooklyngreenway.org
Leaders: Ed Defreitas & TBA

BICYCLE BEACH BUMS

9:30 AM, leaves 10:00 AM promptly, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 15 miles, leisurely pace, flat terrain

Surf's Up! Board-Bike Ride -- aka the 5BBC beach bums classic -- is rockin today all the way to Rocopulco for a change of venue and tunes (B52s' “Love Shack,” Lovin Spoonfuls' “Summer in the City,” and a little bit of Beach Boys thrown in for some West Coast mellowness). For foodies, we'll make stops at Rockaway Taco, Veggie Island, Dredsurfer, DP Pizza, Lobster Joint, Motororboat and the Big Banana, and Commodore East for porkboats; for those just wanting to cool off, there's Steve's ice cream and DiCosmo's Italian ices. And of course after all that there's surfing at Beach 67 Street! (Lessons are $65, and begin at noon.) Warning: Ride officially ends at the surf -- whether on board or bike -- and riders can take the A train back to Manhattan, or join a smaller group who'll move like the tide back to the city via Gil Hodges Bridge and Flatbush Avenue. Bring the usual beach equipment; $$$ for food, surfboard lessons, Rockaway ferry. Leaders: Ted Kushner, Josh Gosciak

KAYAKING THE HACKENSACK: rescheduled to July 15

Saturday, July 14, 2012

IS STATEN ISLAND

8:45 AM, South Ferry (Bike waiting Area), Manhattan. 50 miles, Quick Spin Pace, Many climbs.

As the Dutch seamen on Henry Hudson's ship, THE HALF MOON, entered lower NY Bay they pointed west and asked for the name of this ride: Is Staten Island ? We'll discover fast enough that it is an island - and a pretty high one at that. Upon leaving the ferry in St George we will begin climbing up Grymes Hill, Emerson Hill, and Todt Hill before our visit to the Lighthouse. Lunch in Tottenville. Bring $ for lunch, two spare tubes & water bottles. Sunscreen is a must.
Leaders: Dennis Griffin & TBD

THE WOODY 100 RIDE

9:00 AM, City Hall, Manhattan or 10:00 AM, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 30 miles, mostly flat

It's pretty pastures of plenty for exactly one century ago today, legendary folk singer and composer Woody Guthrie was born in Okemah, Oklahoma. The "Father" of contemporary American folk music, Woody wrote perhaps some 2,000 songs, including of course the anthemic "THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND". In the late 1950's and early 1960's Woody and family actually lived in good old Coney Island on Mermaid Avenue! To mark this historic occasion we will cycle to the beach area and join "official" ceremonies which at press time are scheduled to be held, plus take a possible swim in the ocean. See www.woody100.com for details and other Woody events. Bring bike lock, swim gear and sunscreen.
Leaders: Ted Kushner & Brian Hoberman

SANDY HOOK

8:23 AM, Newark Penn Station, Market St & Raymond Plaza (near Information Booth), Newark, NJ, 60 miles, mostly flat terrain, few hills, some busy traffic, moderate pace

We'll go into the Jersey counties of Essex, Union, Middlesex and Monmouth. We'll pedal to the Henry Hudson (Rail) Trail. Could do side trek to Keansburg Amusement Park. Ride ends at Sandy Hook, former army outpost and now a Federal Park. We'll strive to maintain a general pace of 12 mph. Once we reach the "Hook", you can dunk yourself in the cool Atlantic Ocean. Estimated finish: between 5 - 7 PM. Manhattan return via SEASTREAK FERRY @ 5:45 PM or 7:45 PM to Pier 11. Bring ample water, snacks, sunscreen and $31 fare for ferry. Please, no rain dances! Rain date; Sunday, July 15. Co listed with NYCC as a C12 ride
Leaders: Alfredo Garcia, Jesse Brown and Rodney Millard

Sunday, July 15, 2012

BICYCLE BEACH BUMS

9:00 AM, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 30 miles, moderate pace, flat terrain

Enjoy a 5BBC Summer classic! We will travel on mostly deserted streets as we ride to Neponsit Beach in the Rockaways. Bring your beach gear. We will pick up lunch and eat on the beach. Bring lock, sunscreen, lunch or money for lunch. Don't forget to bring your camera!
Leaders: Clare Mordas and Bob Castro

KAYAKING THE HACKENSACK (rescheduled from July 8)

11:15 AM 9th Street Path entrance (Sixth Av & 9 St); noon, Hoboken Path Terminal (the on-street elevator at Hudson Pl)

Bring your water shoes *and* a water bottle and boogie on down with us to the Hackensack as we bike 'n' kayak our way to nirvana. This is a leisurely meander from old Hoboken Terminal and the charming waterfront and now-gentrified neighborhoods of Union City, Hoboken, and Weehawken, to the meandowslands and industrial wet and wastelands of Secaucus. The views are beautiful, and worth a picnic, or a long siesta, but plan on joining us for two-three hours of kayaking. Rentals, $25-30. There is the option of dinner/late lunch in Indian Row, Journal Square, adjacent to the PATH station that will take us back to Manhattan and home.
Leaders: Josh Gosciak and Alfredo Garcia

Saturday, July 21, 2012

NYACK BEACH STATE PARK PICNIC RIDE

9:00 AM, Eleanor Roosevelt Statue, W.72 St and Riverside Dr., Manhattan. 60 miles. Moderate Pace of 15 mph, few hills

Join our bike friends for a nice summer Saturday ride and picnic at Nyack Beach State Park. We will take a scenic route with greenways and shady quiet suburban streets whenever possible. Pick up lunch in Nyack and eat along the shore of the mighty Hudson. Bring two spare tubes, pump, lunch or money for lunch.
Leaders: Julie Blackburn & TBD

A LITTLE BROOKLYN, A LITTLE BASEBALL

9:30 AM, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 35 mostly flat miles, moderate pace

Don't just sit in the bleachers! Take a summer ride with a number of short stops, as we explore a small slice of Brooklyn's baseball history. where prospects grew and players lived. For the non-baseball fan, we will have interesting Brooklyn streets and sights. Bring or buy lunch & snacks. Possible weather issues, check the bulletin board early morning of the ride or follow billm45s on Twitter for an update.
Leaders: Bill Mastro & Phil Goldberg

Sunday, July 22, 2012

BICYCLE BEACH BUMS

9:30 AM, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 30 miles, Easy Pace, Flat terrain

Enjoy a 5BBC Summer classic! We will travel on mostly deserted streets as we ride to Neponsit Beach in the Rockaways. Bring your beach gear and bike lock. We will pick up lunch and eat on the beach. Sunscreen is a must. Bring lunch or money for lunch. Don't forget to bring your camera!
Leaders: Sharon Behnke and Kathryn Baur

Saturday, July 28, 2012

THE EXPANDED EAST/WEST BORDER RIDE

9:30 AM, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 35-40 miles, moderate pace

That's eastern Brooklyn and Western Queens, as we make our way out from Grand Army Plaza through some less-seen neighborhoods and then continue to skirt our way back and forth between the boroughs. Yes we will ride into "The Hole" (don't know the Hole, come join the ride). Lunch in Glendale offers a few simple choices and if we are on the border you know I am riding to GRIMALDI's bakery in Ridgewood on the way back to Grand Army Plaza. Bring lock and money for food. Possible weather issues check the bulletin board early morning of the ride or follow billm45s on Twitter for an update.
Leaders: Bill Mastro and Fritz Van Orden

STORM KING ART CENTER

7:15 AM, Grand Central Terminal (Information Booth) or 9:00 AM Cold Spring Station, 42 miles, Quick Spin Pace,+16 mph pace

Ride from Cold Spring Station, across the Bear Mountain Bridge and up to the Storm King Arts Center. Lunch and enjoy the outdoor sculpture garden before completing the loop by way of the Newburgh/Beacon bridge. A few challenging climbs. Bring your MTA Bike Permit, $25 for round trip train fare, plenty of water and snacks, $ for lunch. Don't forget your spirit of adventure!. This is a quick spin ride. No Point/Drop/Sweep.
Leaders: Howard Hall & TBA

CITY ISLAND RAMBLE

9:30 AM, Columbus Circle, Central Park West at 59 St, Manhattan, 45 miles, 15 mph pace

Let's celebrate summer, ride to City Island and have a seafood lunch at JOHNNY'S on the pier. We will ride on greenways and quiet residential streets as much as we can. Bring two spare tubes and $ for lunch.
Leaders: Julie Blackburn & TBD

Sunday, July 29, 2012

THE MOSHOLU-PELHAM GREENWAY

10:00 AM, RING GARDEN, Broadway at Dyckman St, Manhattan, 25 miles

You can call it the Cross Bronx Bicycleway. This parklike and mostly car-free greenway traverses the width of the borough from the border of Riverdale to City Island, Orchard Beach, and the gateway to Pelham Manor. Bring a swimsuit for a dip in the water at the Bronx Riviera (a/k/a Orchard Beach) and bring an appetite for lunch at Johnny's Reef on City Island or at an elegant and historic golf clubhouse. And do bring a bike lock, this is da Bronx.
Leaders: Maggie Clarke and Jim Zisfein.

BROOKLYN SOJOURN

9:00 AM, City Hall (foot of Brooklyn Bridge), Manhattan, 40 miles, moderate pace, mostly flat

Electric cars aren't new. Beautiful brownstones not the expected neighborhoods (smell a bargain). Nothing weak about Weeksville. And, oh yeah, a piece of Brooklyn Dodger history. And, maybe more are the points in a Brooklyn sojourn. Bring a lock, $ for lunch. Destination: Brooklyn.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBD

Saturday, August 4, 2012

WESTWOOD OR THEREABOUTS

9:30 AM, Columbus Circle (59 St & Central Park West), Manhattan, 55 miles, 15 mph pace, few hills

A ramble through Bergen county on as many quiet residential streets as we can find. Maybe we can see the same deer that we saw on our ride in the Spring. Lunch at Westwood diner. Ride ends at the GWB.
Leaders: Julie Blackburn & Bill Mastro

NORTH & SOUTH COUNTY TRAILWAYS QUICK SPIN

8:25 AM, Grand Central Terminal, Manhattan Or 8:35 AM, 125th St Metro North Station, Manhattan, 16 mph Pace, No Point/Drop/Sweep

Please take the 8:46 AM train to Brewster out of Grand Central station or the 8:55 AM train to Brewster from 125th St station where we will begin our ride along the North & South County Trailways back to NYC. Bring your MTA Bike Permit. 65% of this ride is traffic free and is often in remote areas. Bring your lunch, snacks, sunscreen, 2 bottles of water and 2 bike tubes. Few hills in the Bronx. Brief lunch/rest stop.
Leaders: Ken Williams & TBD

LINCOLN TUNNEL

9:23 PM, Chelsea Piers, 22nd St & West St (at Greenway), 23 miles, mostly flat, dark passages and some steep hills, moderate pace

Here we go again with a night ride to the Lincoln Tunnel. Escape the boredom and experience being alive. We'll go to the GWB before the midnight closing. Ice cream and other treats at the Pathmark Supermarket in Edgewater Commons. Note: there will be steep dark chocolate downhills, sleepy neighborhoods, steep climbs and stretches with blinding headlights. Let's cycle carefully. Bring front and rear lights to see and be seen. No backpacks or panniers allowed. The goal will be riding into a traffic-free & toll-free Lincoln Tunnel to Manhattan at approximately 1:30 AM, Sunday morning. NOTE: ride subject to change by the Port Authority. Co-listed as a NYCC C-12 ride.
Leaders: Alfredo Garcia, Jesse Brown, Rodney Millard and Rudy Paulich

Sunday, August 5, 2012

FOUR BORO BIKE RIDE

9:00 AM, City Hall (foot of Brooklyn Bridge), Manhattan, 35 miles, moderate pace, mostly flat

Sorry Staten Island, we promise to dedicate an entire ride to you, but first we need enough time to give justice to Arthur Avenue, deep in the heart of the Bronx. Pass through Brooklyn and Queens, cross the Triborough Bridge, and then lunch in the Italian enclave of Arthur Avenue. Then there's Belmont Ave., the origin of the "Dion and the Belmonts" name. Look around for others. Back to Manhattan alongside the East River. Bring a lock and lunch money.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBD

Saturday, August 11, 2012

YOU MUST EARN YOUR BREW

7:30 AM, Kew Gardens (Union Turnpike & Queens Blvd) @ Statue of Civic Virtue, 75 miles, +16 mph quick pace. RSVP Required

Head out along the north Shore of Long Island past Port Jefferson to Rocky Point. We'll then head south by crossing LI to Patchogue where there will be a quick visit to the Blue Point Brewery. Return home via the LIRR which is within walking distance of the brewery. No cycling after the pub stop! Must contact leader prior to ride so that arrangements with LIRR may be made. Fare back to Penn Station is $11.75. Fare back to Jamaica is $9.00. Bring, MTA Bike Permit, money for: lunch, brewery and train fare. RSVP nyc2dag@yahoo.com Return trains from Patchogue are at 3:26 PM, 5:11 PM, or 5:20 PM. It is a 1 hour and 38 minute return trip on the LIRR to Penn Station.
Leaders: Dennis Griffin & TBD

BRIDGES OF NEW YORK

6:30 AM, Central Park, 72 St and 5th Ave, Manhattan, 60+ miles, mostly flat with some busy traffic and hills, moderate pace

A truly ambitious day of cycling awaits you. We'll start by going down Park Ave to Summer Streets, pass the Waldorf Astoria and the Grand Central Viaduct (considered a bridge). Then explore Big Apple's bridges/crossings that are accessible to cyclists, from the Brooklyn to the Bayonne. Every borough will be covered including Staten Island. Lunch at the Japanese Marketplace, on the scenic Hudson River. Bring ample drinking water, snacks and sunscreen. We'll strive to keep a 12 mph pace. Ride ends at Staten Island Ferry, St. George Terminal, or near it. Estimated finish: between 5 - 7 PM. Co-listed as a NYCC C12 ride.
Leaders: Alfredo Garcia, Jesse Brown and Rodney Millard

Sunday, August 12, 2012

BICYCLE BEACH BUMS RIDE

10:00 AM, Grand Army Plaza (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 30 miles, flat terrain

Enjoy a 5BBC classic summer beach ride! We'll be riding to Neponsit Beach in the Rockaways, taking mostly deserted streets. Bring a lock and all your usual beach gear. We'll stop to pick up lunch and then eat on the beach. Remember - Bring a camera!
Leaders: Andrea Casertano and Bob Castro

RIDE TO THE KENSICO DAM

10:00 AM, East 241st St & White Plains Rd, Bronx (Wakefield), 30 miles, 10-15 mph pace, moderately hilly

An "Off Road" Vista bike journey for a regular bike. In the depths of the "Great Depression", the government did a lot of projects to "make work". This one is a jewel. Flowing water, small dams and bridges, ducks, geese and swans make for a most pleasant rolling ride. We'll follow the Bronx River Parkway bike path up to the dam and back. Paved path with some flowing traffic. Bring MTA Bike Permit, just in case.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

Sunday, August 19, 2012

RIDE TO GARIBALDI/ALICE AUSTEN (SI)

9:00 AM, City Hall (foot of Brooklyn Bridge), Manhattan, 9:15 AM, South Ferry, 20-30 miles, leisurely pace

Get transported again on the Staten Island Ferry for scenic riding. You can get anything you want at Alice's Restaurant- oops wrong song- it's CARGO'S. Visit the home of famed photographer Alice Austen, with gleaming views of New York Bay. She won't be home, but appreciates your coming. Check the trip related web www.aliceausten.8m.com Don't worry about Guisseppe Garibaldi, baby. Bring Money for lunch at CARGO'S, a lock and a digital camera.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBD

Saturday, August 25, 2012

BICYCLE BEACH BUM RIDE

10:00 AM, Grand Army Plaza, (entrance to Prospect Park), Brooklyn, 30 miles, flat terrain

Enjoy our last of our summer classic rides! We'll be riding to Neponsit Beach in the Rockaways, taking mostly deserted streets. Bring a lock and all your usual beach gear. We'll stop to pick up lunch and then eat on the beach. Remember - Bring a camera!
Leaders: Kathryn Baur and Rudy Paulich

Sunday, August 26, 2012

SNUG HARBOR & THE CHINESE SCHOLAR GARDEN

9:00 AM, City Hall (foot of Brooklyn Bridge), 20 miles, leisurely pace.

We'll take the PATH train from the WTC to the wilds of N.J. Then, we'll bike down to and over the Bayonne Bridge into S.I. There our destination, SAILOR'S SNUG HARBOR is a few more miles. The sprawling, historic, beautiful and once retirement home for sailors boasts buildings with thruly breathtaking details. And, to put the cherry on the top, there's the CHINESE SCHOLARS GARDEN. Visit www.snug-harbor.org
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

Sunday, September 2, 2012

MANHATTAN PERIMETER

8:30 AM, City Hall (foot of Brooklyn Bridge), Manhattan, 30 miles, 12-15 mph pace

We will circle the island where it all started with $24 of baubles and beads paid to the natives. Today, it wouldn't even pay the broker's fee for your condo parking space. We'll zoom up the biker's version of a west-side I-95. Lunch at a Harlem River backwater spot shared with the Columbia sculling team. Trace the uneven shore of the Harlem and East Rivers all the way down to South Street for whatever quenches your needs after you've made the entire circumcycle of Manhattan.
Leaders: Ed DeFreitas & TBA

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