Do you have any resources on biking in Baltimore?

Yes! You can check out our “Illustrated Guide to Biking in Baltimore” on issuu, or contact us at info@bikemore.net to ask for a printed copy.

Check out our Instagram Page Highlights for an archive on all of our Q&A sessions.

Is there an updated map of all bike lanes?

Yes, you can find the Baltimore bicycle infrastructure map here.

Google Maps also has a “Bicycling” layer that maps out some existing bike infrastructure. It’s less detailed, but a great resource to use on your mobile device. Their information isn’t completely accurate and can be a little misleading. Some roads are marked as “trail” or “protected infrastructure,” even if the bike lane on that road aren’t separated or protected. Still - it’s handy in a pinch.

Also, you can see the progress of new bike infrastructure on our tracker.

Where can I buy a bike?

Baltimore has many bike shops, where they sell new and used bikes:

Additionally, Velocipede and Baltimore Youth Kinetic Energy (BYKE) Collective are nonprofit organizations that build bikes from used parts. They sell bikes and the proceeds go back to benefit their organization. You can also donate bikes to these organizations as well.

Individuals also post listings for used bikes on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Read more about how to navigate these sites at our Buying Used Bikes Guide.

What other equipment do I need?

We recommend you also get the following equipment to ensure your own and your bike’s safety:

Bike lock
Spare inner tubes
Patch kit (to repair punctures/holes in your inner tube)
Multi-tool
Pump
Helmet

How do I pick my route for biking?

Bikemore has an updated bike lane map that shows you the existing bike infrastructure and what kind of infrastructure it is (protected, buffered, bike boulevard, etc.)

Google Maps also has a “Bicycling” layer that maps out some existing bike infrastructure. It’s less detailed, but a great resource to use on your mobile device.

When choosing your route, look for roads that bring you in the direction you’re going and are lower-stress (e.g. fewer lanes),

What do I do if I get into a bike crash?

Please see our “What to do if you’re involved in a bike crash” page for our legal advice.

Are there social rides where I can with groups of people?

Yes! Many folks independently organize group rides throughout the week. Check them out:

Baltimore Bicycling Club
Baltimore Bike Party [last Friday of the month / pre-ride on the Monday before]
Baltimore Bikers
Baltimore Family Bike Party
Bike More Bmore
Biking in B'more Meetup
Crank Mavens Monday Night Riders [Mondays]
Fun On Bikes! Weekend Distance Rides
Taco Tuesday [Tuesday]
Thursday Night Indeterminately Named Baltimore Social Bike Rides [Thursdays]
Two Wheel Tuesday
Women Bike Baltimore

These groups are not affiliated with Bikemore. If we’re missing something, please let us know!

What’s the best way to carry a bike up and down the stairs?

One way is with one hand on the top tube and the other on the handlebars, and then lifting the bikes top tup above the shoulder. Another way to simply grab the top tube and handlebars in one hand and lift off the ground - this works better with lighter bikes.

What’s the best way to clean winter grit/salt out of my drivetrain?

First, let’s consider a common mistake of having too much lubricant on the chain, which attracts dirt and excess debris. That aside, here’s a suggested step-by-step process:

Preferably remove the rear wheel and install a “dummy hub” (Park Tool has one).
Use a stiff brush and apply degreaser to scrub jockey wheels (where applicable), sprocket, and chain below the chain stays to prevent gunk from entering the bottom bracket area.
Using a different, clean brush, apply soapy (e.g. dish liquid) water scrub and repeat step 2.
With steamy, hot water inside a spare water bottle (don’t use this for drinking!), rinse away the soapy water as a light rain would.
While turning the cranks, use a cotton shop towel to dry. Or you can also air dry.
Link by link, apply lubricant. After you’ve lubed the entire chain, go back and wipe off the excess with the cotton shop towel.
The rear cassette and cog can be handled separately by degreasing and scrubbing.

Do you have a recommendation for eye protection that won’t fog?

When wearing a mask or face covering, it helps to bring the material above the nose and under the glasses. There is also defogger spray that can be applied to lenses.

Who has good winter biking apparel?

Try out outdoor supply stores. Locally, you can go to H&H Outdoors (in Lauraville) or REI (there are a few locations in the DMV area).

What kind of gloves should I get to ride in the winter?

There are many different types, so depending on what you’re comfortable with, the answer will change. Camping and outdoors stores have great gloves for biking. Another tip you might try out is to put a couple dashes of cayenne inside gloves and socks for extra warmth!