For bikers, it’s the dream – the chance to take over city streets in all five boroughs without having to worry about rouge taxi drivers, tourists in cars, and all those pedestrians getting in the way. The TD Bank Five Boro Bike Tour has been providing just that since 1977, along with a charitable component to give back to the local community, and the goal of promoting bike safety.

In 2011, over 30,000 bike riders accepted the challenge and geared up for 42 miles of biking to support Bike New York’s non-profit mission. On the first Sunday of May, both cyclists and enthusiasts don helmets and prep for the largest bicycling event in North America. Those taking part began the fun in Battery Park, traveled up through Manhattan into Harlem and the Bronx, back through Manhattan and into Queens, followed by Brooklyn and finishing up in Staten Island. While the 42 miles may sound a bit daunting, the day is more of a marathon rather than a sprint, as rest areas provide a respite from biking and the beautiful views of the cityscape are meant to inspire. To add to the fun, 2011 saw the creation of the Five Boro Bike Fest, a family event hosted the day before complete with live entertainment, bike inspired giveaways, and more.

Get your biking on this May; did you know it’s national Bike Month?