Central Park Cycling Heads-Up: Week of May 10–16

Hey cyclists,

This is a big week for park cycling — two organized rides and the CRCA series weekend opener. Whether you’re riding in one of them or just looking to grind some laps, here’s what’s happening.

Today (Sun May 10) — Race of Hope on 102nd

Race of Hope NYC is on the 102nd Street Cross Drive and Transverse, 8:30 AM to noon. The 102nd connector will be closed for runners. The main loop is open, but expect support staff and crowds at the north end of the park.

It’s also Mother’s Day. Late morning the park fills with families and ceremonies — especially at Bethesda and the Mall. Plan a morning ride; afternoon rides should detour around the lower park.

Skate Circle is back at Dead Road North, 2–7 PM. Slow your line through 72nd in the afternoon — pedestrians spilling onto West Drive.

Wed May 13 — Pedals of Honor 2026

Pedals of Honor 2026 takes over the 102nd Street Cross Drive from 9 AM to 3 PM. A charity ride honoring fallen military and first responders. Whether you’re riding it or just out for laps, expect the 102nd connector closed and a lot of cycling traffic at the north end of the loop.

Light rider day otherwise — Wednesday’s a good lap day.

Sat May 16, 4 AM–8:30 AM — CRCA Central Park Racing Series

The Saturday morning CRCA crit racing series is back on East Drive, 4–8:30 AM. If you race, you already know. If you don’t but you ride the loop on Saturday mornings:

• Before 4 AM: loop is open, full freedom
• 4 AM–8:30 AM: race traffic on East Drive; expect rolling closures, marshals, and a peloton coming through fast. Ride the West Drive side or wait it out
• After 8:30 AM: clean

A great morning to grab coffee at 6 and watch a few laps go by.

Quick recap

Sun 5/10, 8:30 AM–noon — Race of Hope on 102nd Connector closed, main loop open.

Sun 5/10, 2–7 PM — Skate Circle at 72nd Slow your line, no road closure.

Wed 5/13, 9 AM–3 PM — Pedals of Honor on 102nd Connector closed all day.

Sat 5/16, 4–8:30 AM — CRCA Racing Series on East Drive Ride West Drive, the Reservoir, or wait ‘til after 8:30.

Best lap days this week: Tue, Thu, Fri, with calm full mornings. Tailwinds.

The Central Park Guide