(Flickr User Brainware3000)

This Sunday thousands of New Yorkers will hit the streets to participate in the 22nd Annual NYC Century Bike Tour. With a 6:00 a.m. start from Central Park, the 100-mile route takes riders south toward the Brooklyn Bridge, over to the Rockaways, winding through the Greenways in Queens, up the hills in the Bronx, and finally down through historic Harlem. Registration is still open at a cost of $65 if you sign up online by midnight tonight, and proceeds benefit Transportation Alternatives.

For those whose Saturday night vices make the likelihood of an early Sunday bike ride highly unlikely, there are four other Century Bike Tour routes to consider, with later start times and all offer similarly stunning views of New York. With 15-, 35-, 55-, 75- and 100-mile route options, fully stocked rest stops, safety marshals throughout the course, and a post-ride festival offering music and massages, there's no reason not to saddle up! 6,000 cyclists are expected, and roads will not be closed, so be mindful of cars along the route.

Alternatively, if you're looking to get away from cyclists on the Brooklyn Bridge, but still enjoy pushing the pedals now and then, there are a number scenic routes throughout the Hudson Valley—many with access from Metro North. (You'll need to buy a $5 bike permit in Grand Central Terminal before taking your bike on the train; however, the permit will be unnecessary for the Century Ride!)

If your interest in local cycling events is peaked, check out these group rides in the coming weeks:

• New York Cycle Club's Escape New York, Saturday, September 24th
• CF Cycle for Life, Sunday, September 25th
• Storm King Cannibal, Saturday, October 1st