How to explore biking culture in Delhi

Delhi is one of India's most vibrant cities, with a rich cultural heritage and a fast-paced lifestyle. In recent years, the biking culture in Delhi has seen a major boom, with more and more people opting for two-wheelers over cars and public transport. Biking allows you to easily navigate Delhi's infamous traffic, while also being an affordable and eco-friendly transit option. If you're looking to explore biking in Delhi, here are some tips:

Get a Bike on rent in Delhi 

If you don't own a bike, the easiest way to get around Delhi on two wheels is to rent one. There are now several companies that offers bike rental in Delhi, like Rentnhop, that let you pick up and drop off bikes through a mobile app. 

The bikes are docked all over the city, especially near metro stations, so it's convenient to get one wherever you are. Bike Rental rates are very affordable if we compare it to other transports. This makes Delhi bike rental an excellent option for tourists and locals alike. 

Join a Biking Group

One of the best ways to explore Delhi's biking culture is to join a biking community. Groups like Delhi biking Club organize recreational rides, biking events pooling to commute together. Riding with a group makes you feel more secure navigating Delhi's roads. 

You'll also meet fellow cycling enthusiasts with whom you can plan future rides. Many biking groups have rides for different skill levels, so even beginners can join. And it's free to join as a member. Just search for "biking communities in Delhi" on Facebook to connect with like-minded riders.

See the Sights by Bike

While Delhi has plenty of monuments and landmarks, one of the best ways to experience them is by bike rental in Delhi. Several tour companies offer guided bike tours of Old Delhi, taking you past historic sites like the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Chandni Chowk. Biking lets you easily stop to take photos, sample street food, and soak in Old Delhi's vibrant atmosphere. 

You can also bike past modern landmarks like India Gate and the Lotus Temple. Tour guides provide insight into the city's rich history. For a more customized experience, you can create your own self-guided tour by using apps like Strava to plan bike-friendly routes.

Bike the Delhi Ridge

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, hit the Delhi Ridge on two wheels. This rocky, forested ridge stretches over 30 km through the heart of Delhi. Biking trails wind through the ridge, surrounded by native trees and wildlife. Popular routes are Sanjay Van, Asola Bhatti, and Kamla Nehru Ridge. Rise early to avoid the heat and crowds. 

Pack snacks, water, and bike repair tools before your ride. While biking in natural areas like the Delhi Ridge, respect trail etiquette by not littering and yielding to other cyclists and hikers. Going with a group is recommended for safety. Enjoy scenic outlooks over the city from high points along the ridge.

Mountain Biking at Aravalli Biodiversity Park

For a real off-road experience, Aravalli Biodiversity Park in South Delhi has nearly 15 km of mountain biking trails. The tracks cut through the park's forested landscape, with dirt, rocks, and natural obstacles. Hit single tracks meant for experienced mountain bikers. Or opt for wider trails perfect for beginners and hybrid bikes. 

Make sure to wear proper footwear and safety gear for an adventurous ride. Carry equipment for tire repairs in case of punctures. Whenever you bike outdoors, stay hydrated and don't overexert yourself in the Delhi heat. Aravalli Biodiversity Park lets you experience nature right in the city.

Night Biking at Lodhi Garden

See Delhi's historic Lodhi Garden in a whole new light by biking there at night. As one of Delhi's most visited parks, Lodhi Garden has paved pathways that are ideal for biking. It's open till midnight, allowing you to experience the atmosphere at night. Pedal past the beautifully-lit 15th-century tombs and mosques. 

Biking is a great way to explore the vast 40+ acre park at your own pace. Stop on bridges over the lake to see the reflections of monuments at night. Since the gardens are less crowded in the evenings, nighttime is a serene time to cycle. However, stay on the main paths and exercise caution at night. Joining a group ride is recommended.

Ride a Custom Vintage Bike

Delhi's bike culture isn't just about riding - it's also about bike builds and customizations. Talented mechanics around Delhi will restore old vintage bikes or fully customize regular bikes with custom paint jobs, accessories, and performance upgrades. 

You can find these cool customs at many bike workshops. Or have your own bike customized to match your style and personality. owning a unique vintage bike or custom build lets you stand out from the crowd. Custom bikes make adventurous statement pieces to explore Delhi in retro style.

Commute by Bike

Biking isn't just for recreation - it's also a sustainable transport mode. More and more Delhities are now commuting by cycle to work or University. There are even community initiatives like Raahgiri Day that promote biking on Delhi's streets. Commuting by bike helps reduce pollution, noise, and traffic congestion in the city.

Apps like SafeTracks help you find the safest bike routes for your daily commute. Always wear a helmet and follow traffic rules when biking on roads. Using bike lanes and avoiding busy highways is recommended. Commuting by bike keeps you fit and lets you become an active participant in the future of mobility in Delhi.

Join a biking Cause

Biking enables you to support important causes that promote biking safety, sustainability, fitness, and more. Groups like Raahgiri and Green the Gap rally for greener transport and car-free streets where cyclists and pedestrians can roam freely. 

You can volunteer at their community biking events or raise awareness on social media. Delhi Cyclists is another group that advocates for improved biking infrastructure. They even meet with government agencies to lobby for more bike lanes and policies that support biking in Delhi. Participating in the biking community helps amplify your voice for positive change.

Conclusion 

Delhi has transformed into one of India's most bike-friendly cities. Exploring Delhi's biking culture allows you to connect with fellow riders, discover new parts of the city, stay active outdoors, and be part of an eco-friendly revolution in urban transport. So gear up and experience the open roads, pathways, and bike trails that Delhi has to offer. Happy Biking.