Urban Treasures

3rd: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Population: 114,024

Why: A cycling haven in the heart of car country; 2005 Bike-Town
Must-ride: Huron River Drive from Ann Arbor to Dexter
Cool event: One Helluva Ride; www.aabts.org
Local info: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society; www.aabts.org
Bike Shop: Two Wheel Tango; www.twowheeltango.com

Ann Arbor has earmarked 5 percent of its share of state gasoline-tax and vehicle-registration fee revenues for developing nonmotorized transportation infrastructure. In two years, the funds paid for the development of 15 miles of bike lanes. There is also stellar mountain biking at nearby Pinckney Recreation area. Insider tip: Try the 17+ mile Potawatomi Trail-you'll love it.


Honorable mentions

Chattanooga, TN

Population: 155,554

Why: 140 miles of greenways; Singletrack Mind initiative will create 100 miles of local trails by 2010
Must-ride: Tiftonia-Burkhalter Gap: 27+ road miles around and up Lookout Mountain; watch for hang gliders
Cool event: Three State, Three Mountain Challenge; www.chattbike.com
Local info: Chattanooga Bicycle Club; www.chattbike.com
Bike Shop: Suck Creek Cycle; www.suckcreek.com

Cambridge, MA

Population: 101,355

Why: Boston's great hope; has a city bike coordinator
Must-ride: Dr. Paul Dudley White Pathway: 17 miles along the Charles River
Cool event: Cambridge-Somerville Tour; www.cambridgebikes.org
Hangout: Redbones Barbecue (in Somerville); www.redbones.com
Local info: Charles River Wheelmen; www.crw.org
Bike Shop: ATA Cycle; atabike.com