Urban Cycling: Join Pedal Set Go’s Confident City Rider Course in Sydney

Welcome to Pedal Set Go, where we turn the challenges of urban biking into life changing opportunities. Our Confident City Rider Course is uniquely designed for those looking to enhance their skills and safety while riding in the city. It’s more than just bike wisdom—it’s about becoming a vital part of the thriving Sydney bike community. Connecting people to places is what we do well.

See and Be Seen

In city biking, visibility is crucial. Our course teaches the importance of being visible to other road users through high visibility behaviour and strategic positioning. This ensures that you are not only seeing but also being seen, a fundamental aspect of safe urban cycling. We will also cover the use of lights and reflective clothing.

Ride Predictably & Communicate Effectively with Other Road Users

At Pedal Set Go, we emphasise the importance of predictable riding. This involves using hand signals consistently, making eye contact with other drivers and riders, and understanding the flow of city traffic. Riding predictably reduces confusion and enhances safety, making our training an essential choice for anyone searching for a Cycling in the City Course Sydney. Other cycle training options generally focus on cycling for sport rather than negotiating urban streets and traffic conditions.

Effective communication is key to smooth and safe city riding. Our courses go beyond hand signals; we teach you how to convey your intentions clearly and foster positive interactions, enhancing harmony and safety on your rides. As you become part of the community, you start to realise how good it is to be out and about on the streets as you bike Sydney.

Ride with Grace

Sharing the road in the city means interacting with a diverse mix of road users. Our training encourages you to ride with grace—being considerate, yielding when necessary, and always showing patience and respect. This approach is crucial in maintaining a cooperative environment on busy city streets. And remember, if you feel good, not angry or upset, you have enhanced decision making—something that helps you manage risk and stay safe.

Confident Bike Control

The Confident City Rider Course teaches not only basic riding but also how to control your bike with precision in any urban situation. Whether reacting to sudden stops or navigating tight spaces, we equip you with the skills for quick and safe responses.

Smart Route Selection

Selecting the right route is critical and should reflect your skill and comfort levels. All of our cycling programs cover tools for helping you with planning and route selection. Sydney offers a multitude of cycling paths, and with tools like City Mapper, you can find the ideal route quickly. There’s always a path that will make your journey smoother and safer.

Refresher Courses for Every Rider

During our Confident City Rider Course we do a quick bike control skills session. This is the fast version of our Back On Your Bike Course which is perfect for rusty riders and people that have not ridden in a while and those looking to refresh their skills at a relaxed pace. We design courses for riders of all levels, Courses ensure that every journey is safe, enjoyable, and filled with confidence.

At Pedal Set Go, you gain more than just biking skills; you become an integral part of a community that values safety, respect, and the joy of biking. Unlike other programs, Pedal Set Go provides a personalised, community-focused experience that equips you to be a truly confident city rider.

Join the Pedal Set Go Family

We don't just teach people to ride, we teach people to ride better! Are you prepared to go beyond being bike-wise? Join us at Pedal Set Go for our Confident City Rider Course and embrace your place in Sydney’s vibrant and inclusive biking community. We promise your experience cycling in the city will be taken to a whole new level. Our testimonials include “life changing” Contact us to learn more and register for your course today!

Discovering Sydney's Bicycle Network: Your Ultimate Guide to Bike Maps and Adventures

Discovering Sydney's Bicycle Network: Your Ultimate Guide to Bike Maps and Adventures

Are you ready to explore Sydney on two wheels but not sure where to start? At Pedal Set Go, we believe that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single pedal stroke. And what better way to kick-start your adventure than with the right map in your hand (or on your device)? Whether you're a seasoned bike rider or just starting out, having access to comprehensive bike maps and networks can transform your riding experience. Today, we're diving into the best resources for Sydney's bicycle network and how you can easily plan your next ride.

Local Council Maps: A Hidden Gem

Did you know that most local councils in Sydney offer detailed maps of their areas, showcasing bike paths and routes? These gems are often available for free, either sent directly to you or as a download from their websites. They're a fantastic starting point for exploring new neighbourhoods and finding safe, bike-friendly roads. Some websites are easier to navigate than others, so we have provided links to some of them below.

Inner West Council Maps including The Bay Run & Tom Uren Trail.

Transport for NSW Cycleway Finder

North Sydney Bike Map

Randwick City Council Bike Routes and Maps

City of Ryde Bike Map

City of Parramatta Cycling Map

The Must-Visit Bike Blogs and Tools

For those who love a good read accompanied by insightful bike trail explorations, Biketrail.blog by Gary, a renowned blogger and city explorer, is a treasure trove of information. Gary's adventures and detailed guides provide a unique perspective on Sydney's biking landscape, making it one of our favourite blogs.

Planning your route is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable ride. That's where tools like the Cycleway Finder map by Service NSW come in handy. It's an invaluable resource for finding dedicated cycleways and shared paths. At Pedal Set Go, we also rely on apps like Citymapper and Ride with GPS to meticulously plan our routes, ensuring a safe and efficient journey for all bike riders. But you don’t just require bike maps, with a little practice and a keen eye for what’s in between the major arterial roads for heavy vehicles, you will learn to discover a network of roads, laneways, and green spaces—a network of quiet ways that are better by bike.

University Cycle Maps and Parking

Universities often go the extra mile to accommodate people walking and bike riders, offering detailed cycle maps of their campuses and surrounding areas, along with bike parking facilities. These maps can be a great resource for navigating through or around university precincts, highlighting less congested routes and safe bike parking spots. They will often map out water bubblers and toilets which, when well placed, will certainly improve your ride.

Sydney Cycling Map: A Gold Standard

When talking about bike maps, the Sydney Cycling Map by the City of Sydney deserves a special mention. Renowned for its comprehensive coverage and user-friendly design, it's arguably one of the best resources for “cyclists” in the city. Whether you're commuting, exercising, or just out for a leisurely ride, this map will guide you through Sydney's vast network of bike paths and lanes.

Beyond the Map: Embrace Micro-Adventures

Exploring Sydney on a bike isn't just about following mapped routes. It's about discovering new places and experiences. Don't hesitate to think outside the box and embark on a micro-adventure. There are plenty of bike friendly streets without the provision of bike specific infrastructure. While you can't take your bike on buses, Sydney's ferries, trains, and light rail also expand your network, allowing you to explore further than ever before. Remember, you don't have to ride every metre to enjoy the essence of what it is being a bike rider.

Join the Pedal Set Go Community

At Pedal Set Go, we're more than just a bike education and consulting service. We're a community of passionate bike riders dedicated to connecting people with places and breaking down the barriers to “cycling”. Whether you're looking for advice, training, or just a group of like-minded individuals to ride with, we're here to support you on your journey. Check out our social media for a guided ride near you.

Sydney's bicycle network is vast and varied, offering something for everybody. By leveraging the resources and tools mentioned above, you can safely and confidently navigate your way around the city. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your route, grab your helmet, and join us in celebrating the joy of bike riding.

Remember, every ride is an adventure waiting to happen. Let's make the most of it together!

Teaching a child to ride a bike

Teaching a child to ride a bike can be an exciting and memorable experience. Here's a step-by-step, Ummm…Pedal… guide to help you teach a child to ride a bike: At Pedal Set Go we do NOT recommend training wheels, with the exception being for some people with disability. The same techniques can be used when teaching an adult to learn to ride a bicycle.

Choosing the Perfect Bike: Setting the Foundation for Riding Success

Ensure that the child has a bike that they can sit on comfortably with their feet flat when touching the ground. At this stage, a bike is better slightly too small rather than too large. The learner will not feel safe nor confident if they are on their tip-toes. Pedal Set Go do not encourage people to purchase a bike their child will “grow into.”

Ensure your child has the right bike for a comfortable and confident start.

Selecting a Safe Riding Location in Sydney: Where to Begin

Discover the ideal spots in Sydney for teaching bike riding, prioritising safety and space. Look for a spacious and flat area with a smooth surface, such as netball or basketball courts, a quiet street, or an empty car park. Avoid busy roads or areas with heavy traffic.

Prepping the Bike: Removing Pedals and Adjusting the Seat for Optimal Learning

Step-by-step guide on pedal removal and saddle adjustment to facilitate the initial learning phase.

Start by removing the pedals from the bike. A number 15 spanner will suffice if you do not have a pedal wrench. The left and right pedals are threaded in opposite directions. The right pedal is threaded normally – turn counterclockwise to loosen. The left pedal is threaded in reverse – turn clockwise to loosen. Lower the saddle so that the child can easily place their feet flat on the ground while sitting on the seat. Lower is best, and ideally, the child can spread their legs and feet apart like a tripod. (If there are no markings on the pedals, you may want to label them left and right.)

Building Balance and Confidence: The Gliding and Balancing Technique

Learning to glide and balance: Begin by helping the child learn to balance on the bike without pedals. If the bike has a hand brake lever or levers, encourage them to use the brakes while getting on and off the bike. Show them how to use the brake rather than their feet to slow or stop the bike. Have them mount the bike and walk while sitting on the seat, using their feet to stabilise themselves. Remind them to remain seated. Encourage them to keep their eyes focused straight ahead and their arms relaxed. When moving in a straight line or steering, the bike will follow their gaze.

Learn how to guide your child through gliding and balancing exercises to foster confidence.

Mastering the Art of Gliding: Scooting to Develop Balance and Momentum

Once the child is comfortable walking, encourage them to push off the ground with their feet and start scooting. They should lift their feet off the ground and try to glide for short distances. Practise this scooting and gliding technique to help them build momentum and develop a sense of balance. Remember, just like a rolling coin, the bike needs some momentum to stay upright.

Explore techniques for scooting and gliding, essential for building momentum and balance.

From here, it should be fun, and apart from reminding the child to look where they want to go, there is not much more for the adult to do. The child will learn through play and experience. Every wobble and false start is a lesson in the right direction. Little and often also avoids the risk of a sore bum.

Pedals Back On: Transitioning to Pedalling with Confidence

Reinstall the pedals once your child has gained confidence in gliding and balancing. Once the child can demonstrate consistent balance through gliding and steering, reattach the pedals to the bike. Make sure they are properly threaded.

A comprehensive guide to instructing your child to pedal and maintain momentum.

Pedal Set...Go!: Teaching the Basics of Pedalling

First, remind the child about the importance of brakes and ask them to demonstrate how they will stop the bike with the brake levers or back pedal brake. Instruct the child to set the pedal to 2 o’clock with one foot on the pedals, and after a big push, lift their other foot onto the other pedal. Continue pedalling to maintain momentum. Encourage them to keep pedalling so they can maintain momentum and their balance. You may wish to support them briefly, but allow the child to practice pedalling independently as much as possible.

Practice Makes Perfect: Building Skills and Confidence Through Repetition

Encourage regular practice, gradually raising the seat as your child gains control. Introduce more challenging terrain as their confidence and skills improve.

Positive Reinforcement: Celebrating Achievements and Nurturing Confidence

Praise the child for their efforts and progress. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement will boost their confidence and motivation and ensure the activity remains fun.

Remember, every child learns at their own pace, so be patient and supportive throughout the process. With time and practice, most children—in fact, people of all ages—can learn to ride a bike independently.

Embracing E-Bikes in Sydney: A Guide to Sustainable, Efficient Travel

IS AN E-BIKE CHEATING?

Are you considering an e-bike for your travels in Sydney? As e-bikes gain popularity, many are discovering their benefits, but how do you know if an e-bike is the right choice for you?

The Benefits of E-Bikes for Confidence and Fitness

E-bikes offer a unique advantage: a bit of battery assistance that can boost your confidence, particularly if you're worried about your physical ability or fitness level. Many seasoned riders find that e-bikes allow them to travel further and carry heavier loads more easily. Hills and headwinds, common challenges in Sydney, become manageable with an e-bike, making them ideal for arriving at meetings or destinations without the sweat and strain.

Ideal for Multiple Trips and Mobility Concerns

E-bikes are not just for the fitness-savvy. They're a fantastic option for multiple trips, carrying loads, or for those learning to ride, and those who might lack strength or have mobility issues. One e-bike user shares, "I love my e-bike as it allows me to keep pace with my partner without feeling like I'm holding them back."

Sustainability and Time Efficiency

Choosing to ride any bike is a sustainable choice and a choice where unlike a car you also spend less time stuck in traffic. Many people are replacing the family car with an electric cargo bike, perfect for carrying kids or adult passengers. Riders often feel safer on an e-bike in the city, as the battery assistance helps maintain a steady flow with traffic, reducing pressure. Whatever type of bike you ride, Pedal Set Go can also provide training on how to further relieve the pressure of sharing the road with other vehicles.

Safety and Visibility

Most quality e-bikes come with built-in lights, enhancing safety and visibility on the streets and in parks, especially at night. This feature is crucial for those who ride after dark, providing peace of mind and increased safety.

The Importance of Fire Safety and Choosing Reputable Brands

When selecting an e-bike, it's crucial to consider fire safety, especially regarding the battery. Opt for e-bikes from reputable brands known for their high safety standards to minimise the risk of battery fires. These brands invest in quality materials and rigorous testing to ensure their products are safe and reliable. Many UK bike shops will not service unknown cheap brands of electric bike due to the associated fire risks, and it is likely Australia will soon follow suit.

Cost-Effectiveness and Convenience

Operating an e-bike is significantly cheaper than running a car or motorbike, and parking becomes a breeze. With social distancing still a consideration, e-bikes offer a safe social distancing mode of transport. Regular riders will quickly notice savings compared to public transport costs.

Making the Right Choice

Remember, all bikes are an investment. Before purchasing an e-bike, take the time to go for a test ride. Your local bike shop can help you choose the right style for your transport needs, ensuring you make an informed decision. There are also subscription eBike options through businesses such as Lug and Carrie.

In conclusion, e-bikes are a versatile, efficient, and eco-friendly option for navigating Sydney. Whether you're looking to enhance your fitness, carry loads, or simply enjoy a more relaxed ride, an e-bike might be the perfect solution for you. Explore the world of e-bikes and join the growing community of riders who've found a smarter way to travel.

Riding Sydneysiders#3 Milo, Pierre, Finn & Joss

When did you learn to ride and what got you hooked?

I learned to ride a bike Christmas day in 1980. I was thrilled to miss out on church and instead got to stay home with Dad teaching me to ride. Riding a bike gave me freedom, I could be out all day on my bike just touring around the neighbourhood. Riding a bike still gives me that sense of being free.

I love cycling so I was keen to teach my kids as well. With my oldest son, Finn, I didn't want him falling over on a brand new bike so I took him to Centennial Park to use the hire bikes. The taxi driver who took us there advised us having the first lesson on the footpath, outside of the park because no-one ever uses it. He was right and Finn picked up bike riding very quickly, so I bought him a new bike for his birthday soon after.

Joss is 5 years younger so he spent years on a tagalong, and this really gave us the freedom to get around, as I still didn't have a drivers licence. We could spend a whole day cycling, stopping for snacks or trying out a new playground.

Now we do Spring Cycle together every year, it's a wonderful feeling riding on the road with no cars around. I learned very early on, to dress us all in bright red shirts, so I can see at a glance that no-one has been left behind.

Joss made it on to his own bike a few years ago, and now he is big enough for an adult bike. I miss those tagalong years though.

Riding Sydneysider #2: Liane

Where do you live? What’s your usual commute?

I live near Gladesville so my usual commute is into the city, riding the bridges. I start with the cycleway under Tarban then over Gladesville Bridge and Iron Cove, either under Victoria Road and around The Bay Run, through the parks of the Inner West, or ANZAC Bridge to Darling Drive. I work at various locations in cycle education so really get to see the best of the city through linking green spaces and water views. I’ve also worked in Parramatta following a lovely cycleway besides the river.

Can you tell us about how you first got into bikes while growing up in the UK?

I started cycling in my teens when my older brother bought me a second hand bike and taught me to ride. To me cycling has always been about freedom, freedom to explore, have adventures, go where and when I wanted, without compromise. At that age my dog also came everywhere with me, a trusty mutt that ran alongside and shared in the adventures. Our family didn’t have a car growing up and the only option was walk or take public transport which was poor at best , so it was definitely better to get about by bike.

When I became a mum, life skills like swimming and cycling were very important to me. My boys became familiar with the bicycle much earlier than I did, progressing from child seats attached to bikes to tag alongs and then a tandem. We had many family adventures both in the UK and on holidays abroad. On weekends we often headed out across fields on our mountain bikes to a village pub in a neighbouring county, or took part in local group rides..

How do you find riding a bike in Sydney and any advice for people nervous about riding in urban environments?

I hadn’t lived and commuted in a city before moving to Sydney. The only city riding I had undertaken before living here was on holidays, exploring European city sights by bike, or enjoying group events such as London, “Pedal to Paris”. Given the opportunity to come and live in Sydney I really wanted to get to know the city and find my way around easily so I decided not to purchase a car but rather a bike. I spent a good six months just exploring and enjoying getting lost!

I followed other riders via local BUG ‘s (bicycle user groups) and the best decision I made was to sign up for the Cycling in The City Confidence course provided thanks to the City of Sydney council. Although I was already a cycle instructor in the UK I wanted to experience how the laws may differ here, and it is always helpful to get local professional advice.

You are quite the micro adventurer, exploring Sydney by bike. Tell us about your favourite route and the destination?

I think my favourite route is always a new route, I love exploring and although I now know the city much better I still often take a slightly different route home just to compare. I can’t quite get out of the round trip habit of leading group rides for British Cycling. Recently I’ve been exploring further with my e-bike but also multimode, catching the train to Newcastle for a rail trail or down to the Royal National Park & riding to Wollongong.

I have a pooch who’s in training to be a bike box, trail dog….. so adventures to local doggy parks & beaches on the horizon for my free days, so far we’re just checking out the best dog friendly cafes.

You spend much of your recreational and working time on a bike. Do you need padded shorts and all that lycra?

I use the bike & kit appropriate for the type of riding activity i am undertaking. I’ve taken part in mountain bike tours across Croatia in a bikini, shorts & trainers so it is easy to stop off for a swim! On a longer one day sportive on a road bike such as the 110k Cape Argus in South Africa I wore Lycra with pads & clipped in shoes, easier for comfort & long climbs. I love the Sydney climate and for comfort with commuting and work I mostly ride in shorts, vest tops & converse, layering up to jeans, jumper & waterproof or windproof jacket plus walking boots in winter. I think so long as your comfortable & nothing is catching on the bike it’s all good. I love the elegance of some women in the city in skirts & heels but still tend to go more for the mountain bike style of bicycle as preference, plus I’m a bit scruffy.

What are you currently riding and why?

I love my e-bike which I purchased shortly after my arrival in Sydney. The e-bike has made my life so much easier. Buying it was a conscious decision as I didn’t want a ‘second’ car in our family. I wanted to get to know this new city we had moved to and be able to explore further afield. I want to be part of the solution to a more liveable city and not a part of the problem. Traffic, congestion, pollution, these are surely the worst side of Sydney. Setting a good example for health and wellbeing also matters to me. I’ve been able to manage my Rheumatoid Arthritis with diet and with exercise, and have had very little medical intervention, which i believe is because of the benefits of cycling.

Riding Sydneysider #1: Marie

Where do you live? What’s your usual commute?

I live in Potts Point and I ride most often to the city via Woolloomooloo and through the Domain. I also ride to Surry Hills, Redfern and Newtown quite a lot, using the beautiful Bourke St cycleway. I rarely ride to the Eastern Suburbs because of the hills but I’m planning on purchasing an electric bike soon to make this happen.

You’re a born and bred Parisian. Can you tell us about how you first got into bikes and how you find riding a bike in Sydney?

I started cycling as a kid to go visit my friends who lived nearby. I was just too lazy to walk! Then I really got into cycling in my teenage years. Believe it or not - two girlfriends and I used our bikes to go to clubs at night because we were too scared to use public transportation in the middle of the night in Paris. The rest is history. Cycling is such a huge part of my life today. I use it to go shopping, to go visit friends who live on the other side of the city, to go to meetings to take my son to daycare (he absolutely loves it!). I truly believe Sydney has a lot to offer for cyclists: it is naturally beautiful, the weather is pleasant all year long, it does have a good existing cycling network. The key is finding the right path to where you want to go, one that feels safe, quick and connected. Your best ally is the City of Sydney cycling map which you can order for free here.

Sydney has changed quite a bit since you’ve arrived (6 years ago). Are you pleased with the progress made?

Yes, definitely, but we still have a long way to go. There are some beautiful cycleways that are now part of the network: Bourke St and George St cycleways just to name a couple. We have had some setback (don’t even mention College St cycleway being ripped off a couple of years ago) but we are moving in the right direction.

Any advice for people nervous about visiting bike shops?

I have visited most bikes shops in Sydney and have met some of the loveliest people I know there. Going to a bike shop can seem a bit daunting for some people who are not riders and don’t know the technical language. But mechanics are precisely there to inform you and help you. In Paris, your local bike shop is just like your local butcher or bakery – you know the people working there and you create that special relationship with them that just makes you feel connected to your community. It would be a shame not to have this in your life!

How do you find riding with a child?

After having spent over a year stuck at home with a young child, being able to go back on a bike with him felt like some sort of liberation. It enabled us to get to places much quicker and connect with our friends more easily. My son is completely addicted to being on the bike. He sings, talks, shouts to people – it’s like he’s completely alive when he can feel the wind in his hair!