As a new rider, it can be quite daunting taking to the road to commute in traffic. Especially if you live or travel through the city (like I do).
One of the tips I’ve received about riding in Sydney is to grab a copy of Bike-it Sydney. It’s a collection of maps with suggested/recommended bike routes specially marked to make it easier to avoid main roads when riding.
I picked up a copy from the bike shop when I bought my bike. It’s been pouring rain in Sydney the past few days, so I’ve had a chance to plan out a few routes using the map and it looks pretty good. Of course, the first ride on any given route is likely to take a bit of time working things out. But having the book has already been valuable for me just planning and working out where I can ride (once the sun pops out again!).
I’m not sure if there is a similar booklets for other areas/cities - any Futuremakers out there that know of some?
Another good resource, I’m told (though I’ve not had the chance to thoroughly review yet) is Bikely. It’s a Google Maps “mashup”, that, in the words of the site:
… Bikely helps cyclists share knowledge of good bicycle routes.
It can be quite tricky traversing a car dominated city by bicycle, particularly when you need to travel an unknown route to a new destination.
But the chances are, someone has cycled that way before you. Bikely makes it easy for him or her to show you the best way.
Interesting concept - I did a search for “Newtown Australia” (where I live) and got a bunch of results.
Has anyone used Bikely more heavily? Got any tips to share?
I’ve been riding in Sydney for years now and i’ve only had one “crash” which was my fault really. I use the entire lane when i’m doing a decent speed which i think avoids opening doors and also makes me very visible to cars who even honk to say hello sometimes!
I’ve found the roads to be a bit daunting at times but nowhere near as dangerous as people think. It’s a great buzz t o actually beat cars from Bondi to Surry Hills too. I love that.
The other tip is to just let the odd driver who almost side swipes you know they almost hit you. In a nice way of course, nine times out of ten they just didn’t see you. If they get a friendly reminder then they’ll see the next cyclist. While you’re at it let them know how great it is to ride to work every day - loads of people think about it but don’t realise how much better life is on two wheels.
my partner rides to work or catches public transport every day to work. i walk 30 min to work. it’s great! we find it (walking and biking) a great stress relief, easy on the pocket and such a great way of enjoying the outdoors.