New York City is a city that is meant to be seen not from the window of a bus, but from being out in the fresh – ahem, “city” – air, enjoying all that this melting pot of a city has to offer. From the diverse people to the variety of cuisines all the way to the unique architecture, NYC truly is a city of wonders. Thanks to new green initiatives and people who simply want to change up their routines, Bike rentals in NYC are now more popular than ever. Check out these five best places to get bike rentals in NYC and get cruisin’!

Citi Bike

Citi Bike was one of the first mass public bike rentals in NYC and has been around since 2013. Citi Bike is currently the nation’s largest bike share program, according to its website, and offers around 8,000 bikes at 500 different bike stations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Jersey City. To use Citi Bike, one must either buy a yearly membership or purchase a day pass from the Citi Bike kiosks available at each bike station. Then, using your membership card, unlock a bike of your choosing and be on your way! At the end of the day (you cannot keep a bike overnight), simply return your bike to any available station and wait for the green light to signify that the bike is securely locked into place. Boom! It’s that simple – one of the greatest bike rentals in NYC.

RentBike NYC

Another amazing way to get some bike rentals in NYC is through RentBike NYC. This company offers bikes for individual rent, or you can opt to follow any of the RentBike NYC bike tours offered almost daily. These bike rentals in NYC are a little bit on the pricey side, but you get a guaranteed quality bike. Prices begin at $2.99 for one hour, and increase all the way up to $16.99 for the whole day. Should you choose to participate in a RentBike tour, you will be guided through Central Park and the surrounding areas. We suggest doing bike tours at the end of summer or in early fall because the temperatures are perfect for riding and you get the added benefit of some beautiful fall foliage.

Ride Brooklyn

If you are looking to hangout in Brooklyn for the day, Ride Brooklyn is one of the superior bike rentals in NYC. The prices are reasonable, with $25 getting you four hours and $45 getting you the whole day on two wheels. You also have the option of renting nicer road bikes for $65 per day, or, if you really want to be unique with your bike rentals in NYC, Ride Brooklyn offers an $80 tandem bike rental for the day.

Echelon Cycles

If you are looking for a simple cruiser bike to get you from point A to point B, Echelon Cycles, located at 51 8^th Avenue, should be your go-to for bike rentals in NYC. The rentals feature well-maintained mechanics, a comfortable seat, and fun color schemes. Plus, Echelon Cycles is super affordable – you can rent a cruiser for just $40 for the whole day, or $10/hour.

Bike Rent NYC

Bike Rent NYC is the most effective way to do bike rentals in NYC. It is the program created and run by New York City, so bike rentals are available in all five boroughs. Plus, the program offers multiple opportunities for discounts, such as signing up for group rentals or by being on their email subscription list. You can bike the Brooklyn Bridge, cruise through Central Park, and enjoy some waterfront views. It’s up to you!

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