That City Never Sleeps features a group of Night Riders. Meet Mumbai’s midnight cyclists who pedal late into the night to savor the nighttime sights. Shortly after 11 pm, you will see them riding in different areas. Brijesh Singh of Mulund Riders Club says, “We ride everywhere from Dadar to Worli Sea Face and Gateway of India. These night roads are becoming more popular, you don’t have traffic jams or commuters and it’s not hot.” Today on World Bicycle Day, here’s more on this trend…
‘The city has a different charm at night’
Noting the trend’s popularity, Digvijay Singh Rathore of Midnight Cycling Group says, “Just 10 years ago, there were only two Midnight Cycling groups in Mumbai and now there are nearly 300.”
Vinit Kothari, a mechanical engineer from Ghatkopar, explains why he is a regular on this nocturnal ride. “Midnight cycling increases in summer as the temperature rises very quickly in the morning and it becomes difficult to stay outside. Also, when you ride through the empty streets of South Bombay on a quiet night, it’s a different feeling; Everything is so beautiful. Monuments and buildings that are lit up with lights create a distinct charm. Our favorite places are Horniman Circle, Asiatic Library and Mount Mary in Bandra,” he says.
Riders from Maharashtra join it
Women are increasingly turning to this. Andheri-based auditor Angira Chakraborty says the midnight cycle is her go-to de-stressor ride. “It’s a great way to end the week. Also, it’s comforting because cycle group admins make it a safe experience for us,” she says.
It also attracts cyclists from all over. Saurabh Aggarwal, who organizes the ride every Saturday night, says, “We see cyclists from other parts of Maharashtra joining the ride. It lasts until 5 am on Sunday, after which they take the train home.
Even food and trivia
Enjoying dessert is part of the ride. Kamiya Shaikh, a software developer from Navi Mumbai, says, “We love going to places known for ice cream and amras In summer.” Adds Digvijay, “Midnight rides include storytelling and treasure hunts, plus haunted trails and trivia rides, all of which add to the bonhomie and fun.”
Tips for midnight cyclists
By Janhvi Trivedi, Founder of Cyclists Group
- Always ride with the right group after you know more about them
- Wear reflective gear and a helmet
- Always follow the safety instructions given before riding
- Obey all traffic rules
- Carry your own water
