Riding in Central Park at night is a welcome escape from the hustle of the city. The trek uptown 54 blocks to 72nd street is the usual roller coaster of traffic dodging artistry. A quick cut west into the park and the blaring horns and choking exhaust cease. Cars are not allowed in the park at night. Hundreds of cyclists, runners, and in-line skaters rule the road. It is a place to relax, think, and leave some pressurized air. Tonight I got a flat after the second lap around the loop. Generally my artistic friend Andy (who races for Sid’s Bikes) and I head out of the park down through Times Square. It’s a dramatic turn from the comfort of the park. They are two parts of New York City that I love - a calm, cool oasis and a cathedral to consumerism. Cycling in this city is a dangerous and beautiful sport that I love with a passion.

Finishing the night riding through the bright lights of Times Square with Andy.

Andy and Darius find time to talk.

Andy helps find where the glass cut through my tire.

Related posts:

1. Critical Mass: Why Can’t We Just Ride?
2. Empty Time’s Square at Night - Photos from Laughing Squid
3. Critical Mass 9/24/04
4. nyc: bike friendly city.
5. Ride for Life