City Cast

What To Know Before Biking in Pittsburgh

Francesca Dabecco
Francesca Dabecco
Posted on June 13   |   Updated on July 7
The ninth edition of BikePGH’s official map.

The ninth edition of BikePGH’s official map. (BikePGH)

“Bike advocates in Pittsburgh have been working for 20 years to make our streets safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable to get around in,” Bike Pittsburgh’s Ted King Smith told City Cast Pittsburgh. “But there’s one thing that bike advocates can never really fix about Pittsburgh, and that’s our hills.”

Sure, Pittsburgh’s lack of traditional street grids makes our city a little tricky to bike in, but our rivers and hills also make it a stunning place to ride. Find more than 100 miles of bike infrastructure on the Official Pittsburgh Bike Map, plus useful tips for the next time you put your pedal to the pavement below.

If You’re a Beginner

Biking etiquette can be intimidating if you’ve never cycled on the streets. Find tips from BikePGH, like advice on practicing hand signals and the ABC (air, brakes, chains) quick check. If you want a more hands-on lesson, take one of their fundamental classes or workshops.

If You Want To Try Electric

More locals are trekking our hills with e-bikes for longer and faster commutes. But if you don’t know where to begin with the technology, BikePGH has a new e-bike guide including the anatomy of an e-bike, purchasing tips, how to ride it safely and legally, and how to care for an e-bike and battery.

If You Need Repairs

If you need help in a pinch, you can find Fix-it Stations at organizations and businesses around the city. Here’s a map of where to find them. For parts and other cycling purchases, check out this list of shops.

If You Want To Avoid Cars

You can always hit the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, the Great Allegheny Passage, or find other Pennsylvania trails on the DCNR’s website. Mark your calendar for the next OpenStreets event on Sunday, June 25 to explore miles of city streets that would otherwise be used by motor vehicles.

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