Cambridge has more bike commuters per capita than almost any US city. Here's everything you need to know about cycling here.
A City Built for Bikes
Cambridge consistently ranks among the top cycling cities in America, with roughly 8% of commuters biking to work — five times the national average. The city has invested heavily in protected bike lanes, with the Cambridge Street and Massachusetts Avenue protected lanes transforming the cycling experience. Bluebikes (the bike share system) has stations every few blocks. And the flat terrain and compact size mean you can cross the entire city in 20 minutes.
Essential Cycling Info
Bluebikes
The regional bike-share with 400+ stations. Single rides are $2.95, monthly passes are $15. The app shows real-time availability. Stations are everywhere in Cambridge — you're never more than a 3-minute walk from one.
Best Routes
The Minuteman Bikeway (Alewife to Bedford, 10 miles) is the premier trail. The Charles River path is flat and scenic. The Somerville Community Path connects to Cambridge via bike-friendly bridges. Massachusetts Avenue has protected lanes end-to-end.
Protected Bike Lanes
Cambridge has been rapidly expanding its protected bike lane network. Key lanes: Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge Street, Broadway, Hampshire Street. These are physically separated from car traffic.
Safety Tips
Always use lights at night (it's the law). Lock through the frame, not just the wheel. Watch for car doors — ride 3 feet from parked cars. Use hand signals. Cambridge drivers are generally bike-aware, but stay alert at intersections.
Memorial Drive Car-Free Sundays
From April through November, Memorial Drive closes to cars every Sunday from Western Avenue to Mount Auburn Hospital. It becomes a paradise for cyclists, runners, and families. This is Cambridge at its best — the entire riverfront becomes a car-free park.