What is preferable 'I like_gerund (= verb_ing)' or 'I like_infinitive (= to_verb)?
For example, 'I like riding a bicycle' or 'I like to ride a bicycle'.

Question

Answer

The meaning is not always the same.

1. If you are learning British English, you should use a gerund after 'like' if you are talking about something you enjoy. For example:

'What do you like doing in your free time?'
'I like riding my bike.'

2. 'Like to' may have a slightly different meaning. It can suggest that this is something that you think is beneficial rather than enjoyable. For example:

'I like to ride my bike to work. It's tiring, and not very pleasant in bad weather, but I need the exercise.'

Answer

If you plan to describe what you like to do, use gerund. But watch out, since these examples you mention sound a bit unnatural.

try "I like bicycle riding" or "I like cooking" etc.

Я надеюсь, что это помогает