Member Profile: Tony

Say hello to Tony, a Baltimore native who joined Citi Bike last fall. Tony was debating for two years whether he should purchase his own bike and start cycling here in NYC. Our expansion to East Harlem this past fall was the final push he needed to get back in the saddle again and start cycling in the city.

Now he’s an avid rider, commutes crosstown daily, and has discovered some hidden gems in the city. Check out other ways Tony explores the city below!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a Baltimore native, UMD Alumni, and Board Member at The Felix Organization. I am also a Software Consultant by day and Beer Rep by night!

Where do you live and work?

I live in Central Harlem and work in Union Square.

What made you decide to join Citi Bike?

The expansion to Harlem! For the past two years, I kept debating if I wanted to purchase a bike and I never pulled the trigger. Thankfully, I didn’t have to continue my two-year debate thanks to Citi Bike!

Did you ride a bike in the city before joining Citi Bike?

I knew how to ride a bike, but I wasn’t an avid bike rider. Since joining Citi Bike, I’ve been more active. In NYC, it can be tricky getting crosstown. Now, I ride a bike from Harlem to the Upper East Side or Upper West Side to visit friends.

Where are some of your favorite places to ride?

Mostly home. I also enjoy riding to my doctor appointments just so I can tell my doctor that I’ve been exercising when he tells me I need to lose weight. On the weekend, I like to ride along the Hudson whenever it’s nice out.

What would you say to anyone that might be hesitant about riding in the city?

It’s fun! You’ll get to explore! If you are biking home and you notice there are fireworks in Central Park, you can easily stop and observe the beauty. Mix up your physical activity! It’s worth the money!

Also, whenever there is congestion on the trains; rather than being in a pool of cranky people, hop off the train, find the nearest bike, and ride home.

What would you tell someone thinking about joining Citi Bike?

Just do it! I was hesitant, and I just did it because I was thinking about it for too long. Now that I’ve signed up, I’m happy with the service and I really enjoy bike riding around the city.

I ride down new streets, venture to new parts of the city. I feel like a kid exploring the jungle when I ride. It’s also fun being a Bike Angel. It’s like a game! You are able to see parts of the city that you’ve never experienced. Thanks again for expanding to Harlem!

Keep up with Tony and his journey on Instagram at @certifiedbey!