r/BAbike • • Oct 17 '25

r/BABike Official Bike Tag Rules

24 Upvotes

I'd like to thank everyone who voted on the poll regarding use of public transit when carrying the tag from one location to another. The ayes won the day on the question and the resulting rule has been added to the rules below that I copied from the Chicago biking subreddit.

\Moving forward, please link this post on the Bike Tag Rules link when posting the new mystery location. Also note that I have added language regarding a requirement to post photos directly to Reddit rather than using hosting sites like imgur or others.*

BIKE TAG GAME

This is a game that r/BikingATX plays, that was then adopted by r/bikeLA, that was then adopted by r/chibike! that was then adopted by us at r/BAbike!

Credit goes to u/america_yall of r/BikingATX for starting the game.

THE GAME

A game of "Tag" wherein the player who is "IT" posts a picture of their bike at a "mystery location." Someone must find that location, bike there and take a picture of their bike in the same spot. They may then bike somewhere else and take a picture of their bike in this new "mystery location." Both pictures are posted in a self-post and the game starts over.

HOW TO PLAY

  • You must bike to the "mystery location" and take a picture of your bike there. Simply naming the location is not enough. Such posts will be removed.
  • Once you discover the "mystery location" and snap the proper picture, bike to a new "mystery location" of your choosing and take a picture of your bike there.
  • Submit both pictures in a new self-post with a title that includes "Bike Tag" and the number of the new location. Be sure to include a quick description of where the previous location was. NOTE: you may not "reserve" being "IT" by immediately posting a photo of your bike in the old "mystery location" before finding and posting a picture of the new "mystery location."
  • Finally post a comment, or better yet a link to your new post, in the previous thread so that readers of that thread know the game continues!

HINTS/CLUES

  • Hints are optional at the time of posting a new tag, however it is encouraged that you give the post at least 72 hours before a hint is given.
  • If a mystery location goes undiscovered for a week, OP should edit post to include a hint. Other players are encouraged to request clues after a week if OP hasn't yet posted one.
  • Once a post is two weeks old anyone can add a hint or a clue. This way if someone knows the where the mystery location is but does not have time to bike there themselves, they can help keep the game from becoming stagnant.

THE RULES

  • Mystery locations must be freely accessible to the public and by bicycle.
  • Mystery locations should be unique/interesting/identifiable. Tags that include only nondescript features (blank walls) are not acceptable and will be removed.
  • Mystery locations may not be mobile objects (food trucks, for example).
  • Discovered mystery locations and new mystery locations must be tagged with the same bicycle, on the same ride. Given the difficulty of cycling across the Bay in the northern region, limited use of public transporation is acceptable if carrying a tag across. This public transit is confined to:
    • Treasure Island Ferry
    • Bart between Embarcadero and West Oakland Stations
    • Bus bridge between San Rafael and Richmond
  • Pictures of discovered mystery locations and new mystery locations must be posted at the same time directly to Reddit rather than hosting sites like Imgur.

r/BAbike • • Sep 22 '25

Help build a User-Contributed Routes Library!

28 Upvotes

Hey folks! I'm really thrilled to say that I was recently granted access as a mod on this sub for the sole purpose of building out a user-contributed routes library for anyone looking for new rides in their area or a new part of the Bay Area they're looking to explore. I love this sub and hopefully can make a positive contribution through that.

I am currently working on a subreddit wiki that will host this library and would like to ask your help in that. The first ask is if you use a linked route and enjoyed it, feel free to reply to the comment with that link and tag me in that reply. (e.g "Hey u/inquisitab, you might want to add this route to the library!") I'd like to include routes that folks have ridden since there would be some confirmation of the route's rideability.

A couple of notes about contributing routes:

  • RidewithGPS routes are preferred but Strava routes are out due to inaccessibility to non-paying users. I believe Garmin routes are accessible since I've shared those before with success.

EDIT: Strava routes are accessible and fine to share. Not sure where I’d heard they weren’t. * Please share whether it is a road, gravel or MTB route. I am building libraries for each discipline and it would make it easier for me if it was clearly labeled. * If you share a route you created, be sure that it isn't starting at your house unless you would like folks gathering on your driveway! Choose a public location that is generally used by cyclists for the start of their routes (e.g Java Hut in Fairfax). * I will generally be adding loops unless there are out and backs that are better than any looping options. * The routes will be categorized by starting city so please feel free to share in your comment tagging me where it starts.


r/BAbike • • 6h ago

SF GGP Sunday Oct 18 Cycling Group

6 Upvotes

I was in GGP in SF and saw a cycling group around 2-3. I was wondering if anyone knows what group this was?

I'm generally interested in joining a cycling group on weekends that are semi casual if anyone has recommendations as well.


r/BAbike • • 9h ago

Scaredy Cat Alley Cat Sun 11AM at Snow Park

7 Upvotes

Hi Folks

We're hosting our third annual bicycle scavenger hunt/alley cat this Sunday 11AM at Snow Park! There will be at least five manned checkpoints with fun activities. This is more of an adult activity more than a kid one.

$13 entry fee, $6.66 equity entry fee for those short on funds upon request at the registration table. All funds (once we've recovered what we spend on supplies!) go to Spokeland Bicycle Cooperative, Town Bizness homelessness aid, and Transbay Coalition.

If you can't come but want to support, you can help us spread the word. You're also welcome to just show up to the start of the race and hang out while we register folks. Costumes encouraged!


r/BAbike • • 15h ago

Gravel Routes

7 Upvotes

What are some of your favorite (non-technical) gravel routes in the Bay Area ? Strava or RidewithGPS routes appreciated. TIA.


r/BAbike • • 12h ago

Where to get a custom paint job on road bike

4 Upvotes

I'm interested in a custom paint job for my Specialized Tarmac sl8. Not looking to do anything crazy, just want the base color to be silver with white decals.

Are there any shops in the bay that specialize in this? How much would it cost?


r/BAbike • • 19h ago

How do you turn left onto the Polk St bike lane when traveling east on Market?

10 Upvotes

I've done it a few times from the middle of the street because I can't see a better way, but it sure feels wrong. Is there a better way? It's the worst turn I need to make occasionally.


r/BAbike • • 1d ago

How to get SF to keep bike lane clear?

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183 Upvotes

This 311 complaint felt good but was not effective.


r/BAbike • • 12h ago

Will Oakland hills gravel dry out by this weekend?

2 Upvotes

I know we didn't get a lot of rain but I'm still getting used to the area. Will Sibley, Tilden etc be dry enough to ride by Saturday or Sunday morning? What about further north like Wildcat Canyon?


r/BAbike • • 8h ago

Seatpost extraction

1 Upvotes

Is there a shop in the Bay area (preferably east bay, but I can take it wherever) that has a tool to extract a stuck seatpost? I have a carbon frame with an aluminum seat post that is stuck on there pretty good. (2015 super6 evo). It is most probably galvanic corrosion. I've tried spraying pb blaster and some mouse milk and applied some heat. Doesn't seem to budge.

I haven't gone the dry ice or liquid nitrogen route yet. But I was wondering if there's a shop that can do this.

Thanks.


r/BAbike • • 1d ago

SFPD ticketing cyclist

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194 Upvotes

Page st. @ Filmore


r/BAbike • • 2d ago

There's an awesome Alley Cat happening this coming Sunday in Oakland

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14 Upvotes

r/BAbike • • 2d ago

9th @ Market -- watch out for construction zone

6 Upvotes

ETA - meant to say 7th @ Market, not 9th

Heads up that contractors are repaving (?) the rightmost lanes on 9th between Mission and Market. They've set up cones that seem like a temp bike lane but it's actually their work zone and they will yell at cyclists/scooters if you enter the work area. Plus there's heavy machinery with no room to pass them.

It's a terrible intersection right there at Market, but consider merging into traffic and taking the center lane early (so there's less mixing of cyclists, scooters, and heavy machinery)!


r/BAbike • • 2d ago

Never raced cyclocross before? Your first Nutty Cross is FREE.

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15 Upvotes

r/BAbike • • 3d ago

Volunteer east bay urban transportation planners when they see a bike lane

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170 Upvotes

r/BAbike • • 2d ago

27.5 MTB wheel - need to replace

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4 Upvotes

Does somebody have a 27.5 MTB front wheel lying around taking space?

Like I posted yesterday, i just lost mine and would love to replace it so I can continue riding! I'm located in San Francisco but can come by if you are not too far. I want to keep riding!

Specs are 27.5 MTB front wheel 15×100mm thru-axle hub.

Belonged to 2014 Transition Bandit. Old bike and hence a little reluctant to drop money on new wheels.

Or if you know any local bike shop that may carry?! I called a couple and they don't seem to carry used wheels.


r/BAbike • • 3d ago

Stolen Soma

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26 Upvotes

Hey y’all. My friend’s Soma was just stolen last night off her porch. It’s her main form of transport to work and she worked so hard for that bike. I’m absolutely crushed for her and would love to reunite her with it. If you see this floating around the Bay Area please dm me. It was nabbed off college pretty close to the 5 point intersection. Thanks.


r/BAbike • • 3d ago

Lost bike wheel

11 Upvotes

The dumbass that I am, I managed to leave my front mountain bike wheel behind while loading my bike at the Gray Whale Cove parking lot on Sunday morning 😭

It’s a well-used 27.5-inch front wheel from a 2014 Transition Bandit, with a black rim, black spokes, black knobby mountain bike tire, and a silver disc brake rotor. It has a 15mm thru-axle hub (the axle itself is still with me).

Unfortunately, I can’t attach a photo, but it’s a pretty standard-looking mountain bike wheel.
I won’t be able to get back there until tomorrow. If anyone happened to pick it up, or knows a good local lost-and-found group where I should post, I’d really appreciate a heads-up!
Thanks, everyone!


r/BAbike • • 3d ago

BIKE SWAP - Bike and Bike Parts sale - Sat Oct 24

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30 Upvotes

Fall bike swap at the Marin Museum of Bicycling - buy bikes, parts, accessories, and BIKE DECORATIONS! All ages event, snacks available, fun for cyclists of all ages + half-price museum entry.

🚲 Bikes for sale, modern and vintage
⚙️ Parts and Accessories
💟 Sean's Bike Decorations!
🍪 Refreshments available for donation
🎟️ Half-price museum entry

Sat Oct 24, 9am-2pm
1966 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930

https://mmbhof.org/marin-museum-bicycling-events/2026-fall-bike-swap/


r/BAbike • • 3d ago

Delta Mendota Canal/California Aqueduct-Rideable and legal? (2026 update)

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2 Upvotes

r/BAbike • • 4d ago

Thinking about ditching my car for an e-bike in SF. Any advice for a beginner?

56 Upvotes

Hi everyone! I’m seriously considering selling my car and switching over to an e-bike as my main form of transportation, and I’d love to hear from people who regularly bike around the city.

For some context, I live in the Mission near 16th and South Van Ness, and my car has honestly become more of a headache than anything else. It’s constantly needing repairs, I don’t have a designated parking spot, and between parking tickets, maintenance, gas, and everything else, I’m starting to question why I even have a car when I live in a city with so many public transit options.

I’m a grad student and student teacher, so my commute is a little all over the place. Most mornings I’d be biking from the Mission to the Outer Sunset and back, and on some days I’d also need to get to Caltrain to head down to Stanford for evening classes. So I’d definitely be putting some miles on this bike.

I’m about 99% sure I want to make the switch, but I’m also pretty new to biking as a primary form of transportation, especially in a city like SF with all the hills, traffic, and unpredictable weather.

As far as the actual bike goes, I’m looking for something extremely reliable, durable, and comfortable enough for daily commuting. Good suspension would be a huge plus, especially with how rough some of the roads are. I’m also curious about battery life, maintenance, theft prevention, and what features people consider absolute non-negotiables when buying an e-bike.

I’m also just curious about the general experience of biking in SF. Are there certain routes you’d recommend or avoid? What’s the etiquette around biking in traffic, using bike lanes, and sharing the road? How do you deal with rainy days? And for anyone who combines biking with public transit, how practical has that been?

Also, if anyone has made the switch from owning a car to primarily biking and using public transit, I’d love to hear how that went. Do you ever regret not having a car? Are there things you didn’t anticipate?

Really, I’m open to any advice, recommendations, tips, tricks, or things you wish someone had told you before you started biking in the city. Even the super obvious stuff, because I’m very much a beginner lol. I have been Lyft biking for about two weeks now and they are great 🩷 don’t love how bulky/heavy they feel and also the suspension is not the best!!

Thanks in advance!! I’m honestly really excited about the idea of making this switch, just trying to do my research before fully committing.

Edit: Also wanted to add that my car is currently looking at about $4,000 in repairs, and the car itself is only worth around $5,000, which is a pretty big part of why I’m considering making the switch lol.
I actually went to New Wheel on Valencia this weekend and test rode two e-bikes in the $2,000–$3,500 range, so I’ve already started looking into some options! Didn’t commit to anything yet, but I did buy myself a helmet because I figured that was probably the first thing I should get.
Still very much in the research phase, so any recommendations or things to look out for would be super appreciated


r/BAbike • • 4d ago

STOLEN ROAD BIKE

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47 Upvotes

Hi fellow Cyclists,

Please ping me on reddit or contact PAPD if you happen to come across my road bike.

Thank you very much in advance, for your help.


r/BAbike • • 4d ago

Yerba Buena climb

4 Upvotes

Anyone know if they'll be opening up what I think is Treasure Island road so you can take the longer route back up to the bridge instead of the insanely steep macallah road? The fencing looks like they have a gate in it for this purpose.

I used to just ride up that way on the shoulder but I think it's all closed off for construction now.


r/BAbike • • 5d ago

HMB Pumpkin Festival

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60 Upvotes

Yikes! So many motorists taking unfamiliar routes and roads, making last minute turns or unexpected u-turns, to get to Half Moon Bay's Pumpkin Festival or pumpkin patch farms from Woodside and Cañada Rd. Then, they ascend Kings Mountain Rd. and descend Tunitas Creek Rd. in convoys, crossing the double-yellow line like it doesn't exist.

Attention cyclists: ride another route!!!

Don't even try riding anywhere near HMB during the pumpkin buying seasonal chaos. It's not worth the aggravation, your life or getting involved in an accident which you couldn't avoid.

Help, please!!!

Otherwise, a gorgeous day out full of sunshine and cyclists. More roadkill on Canada Rd. I'll have to craft a letter of concern to the various authorities and agencies. Far more this year than ever.


r/BAbike • • 5d ago

Marin Ave to Grizzly Peak. Must be one of the hardest bike climbs in the Bay Area.

52 Upvotes

We did it yesterday. Well bike spouse did. I crapped out a couple blocks away from the top.

24+% grades tend to have that effect on me!

202 mile ride yesterday and we went clockwise starting on Skyline north of Kings Mountain at 3 am.

35 climbs including Hicks (fortunately from New Almaden) and 9 from Saratoga. Finished around 10 pm.

This is when I ask if you all agree with me on Marin Ave.

Oh and starting in rural San Jose I was craving a Coke Icee in the worst way! Thankfully the mini Mart at the Saratoga Chevron has the real deal. Also, the tamales at the little market near Sunol at the east end of 84 ROCK.

https://ridewithgps.com/trips/420657209?privacy_code=nLB0UjyxDrRuCrjlxEHAXVsQnjdNZk48

EDIT TO ADD - yes I realize that 3 AM sounds completely nuts, but I have to say that being on Hwy 35/Skyline at 4 AM between San Bruno and the SF Zoo with absolutely NO CARS (well maybe one or two) is pretty sweet!