By: Joe Conch

It’s been said that the Florida Keys have something for everyone. Fishing, diving, snorkeling, boating and really anything else that involves the ocean draws millions of visitors per year. The year-round warm weather and water also help the Keys stay a popular tourist destination. As a lifelong cyclist, I’ve found that they one thing the Florida Keys don’t offer is good cycling.

Long distance riders
Aside from the obvious challenges of long-distance riding (sweat, tears, sunburn), the Florida Keys aren’t very bike-friendly for the endurance cyclist. For the most part, the more densely-populated Keys are equipped with poorly maintained sidewalks or small shoulders on the side of the road. The shoulders usually contain potholes or rocks which don’t make for a smooth ride when cruising with thin tires. In between Keys and on the smaller Keys, the bike lanes and shoulders usually disappear altogether. If you don’t mind cars buzzing by you on the Overseas Highway, then you may have a fine time when trekking from Miami down to Key West (about 120 miles). However, if risking your life with the less-than-stellar, salty-dog drivers of the Florida Keys seems a little wild, enjoy this marine paradise from the comfort of your sedan.

There is a project underway that aims to remedy this situation by adding trails, sidewalks and educational kiosks throughout the keys. Of course, this has been in the planning stage for a long time now and set to be complete at a ‘Florida Keys pace.’

Getting around town
Without argument, Key West is definitely the most bike-friendly of all the Keys. There’s really no reason that every traveler to the Conch Republic (aka, Key West) shouldn’t spend some time on a bicycle. There’s no better way to get acquainted with Key West then to get lost on a bicycle. You can pretty much throughout the entire island in a day and biking makes it easy to stop at attractions along the way.

While the island is pretty busy with half-drunk tourists and fishermen, there are plenty of sidewalks to help you keep out of traffic and harms-way. A map of the island can be found in just about any gift shop on the island or from kind folks willing to rent you a bike for your visit.

Adventure riding
For the thrill seeking cyclists who typically enjoy a weekend on the trails climbing heavily-rooted hills and riding thin planks, the Keys are definitely not your cut of tea. I’ve spent plenty of time trying to find places for a little off-road action to no avail. Sorry thrill seekers, you’re better off in Miami or Sunrise where you’ll find the best South Florida biking.

In general, biking in the Keys isn’t great to for cycling enthusiasts. There is, however, a bit of enjoyment to be had by anyone who’s willing to rough it a bit.

– About –

Third Party Article By Joe Conch - Joe Conch is a resident of the Conch Republic. For extra cash, he writes travel articles.

Source: Cool Biking Zone - Your source for great cycling, sports and fitness articles!