Sydney Metropolitan Cycleway Maps

Check out this link for .pdf format cycling maps you which you can view or print directly from the Roads and Traffic Authority, NSW website available at the following URL:


http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/trafficinformation/downloads/bicycbicycsydne_dl2.html

Get out and have fun cycling safely on your fixed gear bike!

Helmets...

Love them or hate them, you’ve got to wear one or you cop a fine.  Some say the hassle of wearing a helmet discourages people from cycling.  But surely wearing a helmet will offer some protection.  If I do fall off my fixed gear bike and get slammed onto the pavement, I’d rather have something on my head to absorb the impact rather than my skull.

Others are convinced that it’s a generational thing, with youngsters today completely used to wearing a ‘lid’ when cycling, having grown up with the habit of wearing a helmet at a young age.

New helmet safety standards, check out the latest story:

http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/wellbeing/new-bike-helmet-standards-send-retailers-into-a-spin-20101118-17zeq.html

Check out this site, Mandatory bike helmet laws: random facts  

http://www.cycle-helmets.com/helmet_statistics.html

Also check out the NSW Government RTA site for information on legislation and safety

http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/bicycles/

Commuting Tips

Check out this site for some great cycling tips to keep you safe: Cycleaware

Railcorp adds a bike track (I wish!)

Let’s face it, you’re not going to risk you life cycling from Parramatta to the Sydney CBD along Parramatta Road to get to work. But imagine if the Government was clever enough to lay a bike track along the existing rail line  - it would be safe and you wouldn’t cop the abuse you do from frustrated motorists.  And it’s flat, meaning its ideal for most cyclists, especially a fixed gear cyclist!

How can I prevent my bike getting stolen?

After looking at the different methods that thieves use to steal bikes, my bet is on having multiple locking devices, or at least having stronger security than the bike you just parked next to!

 Also, I vary where I park my bike.  I don't really want anyone knowing my parking routine.

Flat Tires :(

Watch out for anything that shines

Try not ride where debris collects.  Glass, nails, wire, small sharp rocks, etc., are all pushed to the shoulder of the road by the sweeping action of car tires.  Always keep alert for any shiny stuff ahead because it’s most likely that that’s where the small shards of broken glass are.  If it gets stuck in your tire, it can gradually work its way in and eventually cause a puncture. If I see a broken glass in my path, I get off and walk the bike around it.

Rub away your troubles

If  I didn’t see it in time, I immediately get off and check the tires and dislodge any debris using the thick padded part of my glove against the tire as it turns a couple of times.  If you do this, you prevent anything that is embedded into you tires from getting deeper where it can damage the bike tube.

Super Glue

After a ride, inspect your tires.  If do you see a cut or puncture during an inspection, dig out any debris and then seal the hole with super glue.  To help set the sealant in the gouge, let the air out of your tire, wait a few minutes, then pump it full again.

If you need to remove and install a bicylice tire, check out this amazing video.

Cooks River Cycle Path

The Ryde to Botany Bay Cycleway is 23km long.  It starts at Settlers Park in Ryde and travels through Gough Whitlam Park and finishes at Botany Bay. Cycle along the historic Cooks River and have a great day out on your fixed gear bike.

Enjoy the many parks dotted along the cycleway.  Watch a game of cricket, soccer or rugby.  There's great spots for BBQ's and picnics, or grab a bite from one of the many eateries along Brighton Beach.

 The bike route is available here