May marks Bike Month, an annual celebration that encourages cycling, promotes safety, and celebrates New York City’s growing bike culture. With an estimated 226 million cycling trips taking place across the city each year, the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) is hosting events throughout the city this month. Over the last three years, DOT has built a record 87.5 miles of new protected bike lanes and upgraded an additional 20 miles.
Free helmet fittings and distributions are available at multiple locations. New York State law requires all children up to age 14 to wear bike helmets certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, while city law requires all commercial cyclists to wear properly fitted helmets. Upcoming helmet distribution events include:
- May 23: Spuyten Duyvil Playground, Bronx (4pm to 7pm)
- May 31: Seth Low Playground, Brooklyn (11am to 2:30pm)
- June 5: Kissena Park Playground, Queens (11am to 2:30pm)
- June 7: Lower Highland Playground, Brooklyn (11am to 2:30pm)
- June 8: Breininger Park, Queens (11am to 2:30pm)
- June 14: Torsney/Lou Lodati Playground, Queens (11am to 2:30pm)
- June events continuing through July 12 at various locations
Other DOT organized events and resources include:
- Educational community programming with guided group rides and self-guided adventures
- Delivery worker outreach events at various locations and dates
- Bike light giveaways at various locations and dates
For a complete schedule of all Bike Month events, including Helmet Fittings & Distribution, visit the DOT Bike Events Calendar.
You can also learn more about DOT’s Bike Month resources here and cycling in NYC here.
