Back in 2012, I wrote an article titled “Road Cycling in Istanbul” for the website Cycling Passion. The article was predominantly in a Q&A format. Now, for 2024, I wanted to revisit and expand on that article.
A lot has changed in Istanbul regarding cycling since 2012. First and foremost, the number of people riding road bikes has increased significantly. Back in 2012 and earlier, when I went out for training, it was rare to encounter anyone else on the road besides the friends I was cycling with. Often, we’d complete our ride without seeing another cyclist.
Now, however, especially along the coastal routes, I encounter so many cyclists that it surprises and delights me. On a single out-and-back ride, I sometimes come across three or four large groups (each with 20+ road cyclists). What’s even more interesting is that I now see road cyclists even on remote routes like the Balaban Road, where encountering another cyclist used to be unthinkable.
It’s also worth noting that this increase in cyclists includes more women. A significant number of women are now riding road bikes in Istanbul, which is fantastic progress.
When it comes to cycling routes, unfortunately, there’s been a setback with the opening of the new Istanbul airport. The Northern Marmara Highway and the traffic it generates for the airport have made the area much more dangerous. That region used to offer numerous alternatives and was well-suited for road cycling, with many routes that were almost deserted in terms of traffic back in 2012 and earlier. Now, due to the airport, many of those routes have heavy traffic. I still train in that area, and once I pass the airport (the crossing is somewhat hazardous), the traffic thins out considerably, though not to the extent it used to.
Additionally, routes within the city, such as the Bosphorus shoreline, the Belgrad Forest/Çiftalan area, or the Rumeli Lighthouse road, have become increasingly congested due to Istanbul’s ever-growing population and vehicle traffic.
Despite these challenges, the number of road cyclists continues to rise, which is a wonderful development.
Here are some insights that I hope will serve as a useful guide for road cycling enthusiasts who are planning to reside in Istanbul, whether temporarily or permanently:
Road Cycling in Istanbul: A Guide for Cyclists
Cycling in Istanbul can be intimidating for those unfamiliar with the city’s unique challenges and opportunities. While the city is far from bike-friendly, it offers possibilities for road cyclists and triathletes willing to navigate its quirks. Below, I’ll address some common questions about cycling in Istanbul and share helpful tips to make your experience as smooth as possible.
Is Cycling in Istanbul Impossible?
No, it’s not impossible. While Istanbul may not have the infrastructure or culture of a cycling-friendly city, it is possible to cycle here if you exercise caution and adapt to the conditions.
Additionally, it’s possible to find beautiful routes near Istanbul where traffic is not as heavy. Although access to some of these routes has become more challenging due to the new Istanbul airport, it is still not impossible. If you have a car, you can drive out of the city first and enjoy cycling on quieter roads.
Is Istanbul a Bike-Friendly City?
Unfortunately, no. Istanbul tops the list of Europe’s most congested cities, and drivers often show little respect or attention to cyclists. However, with the right mindset and safety precautions, you can survive and even enjoy cycling in this bustling metropolis. The key is to be extremely cautious: never assume that a driver has seen you, for example, even if they appear to look in your direction.
Should I Bring My Own Bike, or Can I Rent One?
If you are a serious cyclist -whether a roadie or a triathlete- you should bring your own bike. Renting a high-quality road bike in Istanbul is next to impossible, and most rental options cater to casual riders.
Can I Find an English-Speaking Group to Ride With?
Yes, you can! Many road cyclists and triathletes in Istanbul are well-educated and speak English fluently. Joining a group ride can make your experience much safer and more enjoyable.
How Can I Find a Group to Ride With?
I’m happy to help! As someone who has been part of the local cycling community for years, I personally know many serious road cyclists and triathletes in Istanbul. Feel free to reach out, and I can connect you with a group.
As I mentioned earlier, the number of road cyclists in Istanbul has grown significantly since 2012. Now, it’s as simple as hopping on your bike and going for a ride along the Bosphorus. Especially on the European side, you’re likely to encounter plenty of cyclists. Take the opportunity to introduce yourself and ask if they ride with any groups. Most groups coordinate via WhatsApp, and they’ll likely invite you to join their chats so you can stay informed about upcoming rides.
The growing cycling community in Istanbul is welcoming, and finding like-minded riders has never been easier!
Are Bicycle Parts and Mechanics Available in Istanbul?
Partly, yes. You can find popular bicycle brands such as Giant, Trek, Cannondale, and Specialized in Istanbul. Shimano and SRAM parts are widely available. However, the Campagnolo parts are a bit harder to find. While there are skilled mechanics, finding high-quality cycling wear can be more challenging, and prices for bikes, components, and apparel are higher than in many European countries.
Does Istanbul Offer Any Good Climbs?
Istanbul is a hilly city, so there are plenty of short climbs. However, don’t expect legendary ascents like L’Alpe d’Huez. The highest elevations are around 200-220 meters, but you’ll find enough variety to keep your rides interesting.
The gradients of Istanbul’s hills are not particularly gentle, and you may encounter sections with slopes reaching, or even exceeding, 15%.
Should I Bring My Winter Gear?
Yes, if you’re coming in winter. Many assume Istanbul has a desert-like climate, but this is far from the truth. Winters here are cold, humid, and often rainy, with occasional snow. However, the climate is milder compared to many European cities. Summers, on the other hand, are very hot and humid, so plan accordingly.
Street Dogs in Istanbul: What Cyclists Need to Know
It’s true that Istanbul is home to many street dogs, but they are generally not aggressive. However, especially in the early mornings, they can be a bit excitable and may display behaviors that could be mistaken for aggression. In such situations, it’s important to stay calm.
If there’s no clear space to pass safely (as colliding with a dog is the most dangerous scenario), get off your bike and walk calmly. Once you’ve moved far enough away (out of their perceived territory), they will usually stop following you. Remaining composed and avoiding sudden movements is key to handling these encounters safely.
It may sound paradoxical, but not fearing dogs is the best antidote to fear of them! If you’re afraid of dogs, this fear will naturally diminish as you gain more experience over time. As your fear decreases, you’ll get better at deciding how to handle different situations effectively. Before long, street dogs will cease to be a problem for you entirely. Patience and experience are your best allies!
Additional Tips and Assistance
If you have further questions or need specific advice about cycling in Istanbul, feel free to reach out via the contact form below. I’ve been part of this community for years, and while I’m now retired from racing (I was a racing cyclist until 2015), I remain connected with the cycling scene. Whether you’re looking for a group ride, tips on routes, or just advice on navigating the city, I’m here to help.
Cycling in Istanbul may come with challenges, but it’s also an adventure waiting to happen. Below, you’ll find some photos of my own cycling experiences in the city.
