North Brooklyn is the most cycled part of New York, which makes McCarren Park the obvious place to run the city's free bike safety classes - flat, open ground with the Kent Avenue and Bedford Avenue bike lanes minutes away for the graduation lap. Instructors cover balancing, braking, signalling and reading traffic, for people starting from zero as well as nervous returners. Free and worth more than most paid lessons.
What to expect
Expect small-group instruction on the lawn and adjacent paved areas, structured drills rather than a free-for-all, and helmets provided. Check whether the session supplies bikes before you go. Wear closed shoes and clothes you can move in, and bring water.
Good to know
- McCarren Park is on the Greenpoint-Williamsburg line; the L to Bedford Avenue and the G to Nassau Avenue both work.
- Free — helmets are usually provided.
- Confirm whether bikes are supplied or you need to bring your own.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water.
- Open to adults and children, including absolute beginners.
- The Kent Avenue protected bike lane is minutes away for practice afterwards.
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Common questions
Is the class free?
Yes — NYC Parks bike safety classes are free.
Where in McCarren Park does it meet?
On the Bayard and Union lawns.
Can adults attend?
Yes, the classes take beginners of any age.
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