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This City Was Just Named Most Bike-friendly in the U.S.—and Its Most Popular Routes Are Scenic and Peaceful
Sometimes, the best way to get to know a new destination is by hitting its streets on two wheels. We're, of course, talking about taking a cycling journey. Whether cruising in the slow lane or passing people on a road bike like you're in contention for the Tour de France, getting to see the world on a bike is a special experience. But there are some destinations that are just a little bit better than others for this kind of adventure.
In late 2024, buycycle, a marketplace for pre-owned premium bikes, shared the results of its study looking into the best cycling cities in the U.S. for 2025. It came to its conclusion after analyzing cycling destinations across major U.S. cities with populations over 300,000 based on the PeopleForBikes City Ratings 2024 report. That report assessed the SPRINT score, which broke down factors like "safe speeds, protected bike lanes, intersection treatments, network connections, and trusted data," according to buycycle. It then used those ratings and Google Search Volume data from Nov. 1, 2023, to Oct. 31, 2024, for cycling-related queries to rank the top 10 city cycling destinations.
And after all that work, it named Portland, Oregon as No. 1.
"The city of Roses, Portland, is a cyclist's paradise, offering a blend of scenic routes and bike-friendly culture," the team explained, noting the city earned a SPRINT score of 59. "The city boasts an extensive network of bike lanes, making it easy for riders to navigate through the vibrant neighborhoods."
It added that some of the city's most popular routes include scenic rides along the Willamette River and peaceful escapes in Forest Park. "Portland's commitment to sustainability and its active cycling community make it a top destination for both daily cyclists and avid riders alike," it added.
Joining Portland on the list is New York City, which took home second place and scored high marks thanks to the paths in Central Park and rides along the Hudson River Greenway. It's followed by San Francisco, which buycycle noted is "known for its steep hills, scenic waterfront, and famous landmarks," which offers a "one-of-a-kind cycling experience."
Denver, Colorado, and Minneapolis, Minnesota round out the top five, offering diverse landscapes all their own. See the full list, along with route recommendations, at buycycle.com.
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