The Art of Leading Safe, Predictable Group Rides & Bike Buses

A well-led group ride flows smoothly, stays predictable, and keeps everybody safe. Without structure and guidance, a group can quickly become scattered, unpredictable, and stressful—not just for the riders but for all road users.

At Pedal Set Go, we’ve spent years refining the art of leading safe, structured, and enjoyable guided rides and bike buses. Group riding is a skill, just like riding a bike itself, and without structured guidance, things can unravel quickly. How a group moves through traffic impacts not just their safety but also how other road users perceive and respond to them.

Lately, we’ve noticed more group rides appearing, which is fantastic for bike culture. But not all group rides are created equal—small mistakes in group movement can have big consequences. So, what separates a well-organised ride from one that feels like a rolling hazard?

Common Challenges in Group Rides & Bike Buses

Predictability is Key

The foundation of safe group riding is predictability—other road users should never have to guess where a group is going next. If riders are meandering across lanes, switching between single file and bunch riding unpredictably, or leaving erratic gaps, the risk of close calls increases.

At Pedal Set Go, we teach consistent, clear positioning—riding two abreast where safe and legal, shifting to single file when appropriate, and maintaining a structured, visible formation.

Two Abreast: Legal & Often the Safest Option

Let’s clear this up: riding two abreast is completely legal in Australia, as long as both riders stay in the same lane. In fact, it’s often the safest way to ride.

When done well, a group riding two abreast moves through intersections efficiently, protects less confident riders, and remains highly visible. The issue isn’t riding two abreast—it’s when riders unintentionally drift into three or more abreast or switch formations without clear communication.

The Door Zone: A Hidden but Serious Risk

One of the leading causes of cyclist hospitalisation is being doored—when a parked car door suddenly opens into a rider’s path.

At Pedal Set Go, we never position a group in the door zone. If avoiding it isn’t possible, we slow to a walking pace—because at any faster speed, reaction time isn’t enough to prevent a crash.

Wheel Overlaps & Poor Spacing

A classic mistake in group riding is allowing wheels to overlap—where the front wheel of one rider drifts ahead of the rear wheel of another. If the rider in front swerves or slows, the overlapping rider is almost guaranteed to crash.

Another common issue is letting participants ride up front. There should only ever be one ride leader at the front—not multiple participants edging forward, blocking visibility, and increasing the risk of sudden braking or collisions.

Signaling: Progressive Skills & Risk Mitigation

At Pedal Set Go, our skills are progressive, meaning we build each rider’s ability step by step. That’s how we mitigate risk—riders only take on new skills once they’ve demonstrated control.

Signaling is important, but only when riders have the skills to do it without compromising their control of the bike. A common mistake in poorly led group rides is expecting every rider to signal, even those who haven’t yet acquired one-handed riding skills in real-world conditions.

That’s why we prioritise bike handling first. If a rider hasn’t demonstrated they can safely control their bike with one hand, signalling is not necessary—because keeping both hands on the bars is the safest option.

E-Bikes & Group Riding: A Common Misconception

Many people assume a guided ride on e-bikes will be faster than one on standard bikes. While e-bikes help on hills and can support riders with lower fitness levels, speed isn’t dictated by the bike—it’s dictated by riders’ abilities and road conditions.

In NSW, legal e-bikes cut motor assistance at 25km/h. Beyond that, riders rely purely on pedalling. At 25 km/h, a lot can go wrong in a group if riders lack control skills—sudden stops, overlapping wheels, or unpredictable movements become much riskier at speed. And 25 km/h is very fast on a busy cycleway at peak hour!

At Pedal Set Go, we set the speed to match the demonstrated abilities of all riders—never faster—and always in response to road conditions, not the bike’s capabilities. Our guided rides and bike buses are designed to build confidence in using bikes for transport, not performance. These are not training sessions for racing or the velodrome—our goal is to help people ride safely and comfortably in everyday environments.

Why Route Design Matters for Group Riding & Bike Buses

Riding solo and riding in a guided group or bike bus are two completely different experiences. A solo rider can make quick decisions about gaps in traffic, speed changes, and positioning. A group, however, needs to function as one predictable unit—staying together, being highly visible, and avoiding unnecessary stops and starts.

At Pedal Set Go, we design our routes specifically for group riding.

• We choose routes that allow the group to move efficiently through intersections.

• We prioritise visibility—so the group is seen as a cohesive unit, not scattered riders.

• We minimise unnecessary stopping and starting—reducing delays and keeping the ride smooth.

A poorly planned route can leave a group strung out across multiple intersections, forcing riders to play catch-up, creating unnecessary risks. Good route design means safer, more efficient group riding.

Why Professional Leadership Makes the Difference

Great group rides don’t just happen. They’re taught, practiced, and led with skill.

A professionally led guided ride or bike bus means:

• Predictable movement, reducing conflict with other road users.

• Participants learn the right habits from the start.

• Safe spacing and positioning—no wheel overlaps, no door zone traps.

• Clear, effective signalling—used when it’s safe, not as a default.

• Minimal road rage—because a well-run ride looks like it belongs on the road.

At Pedal Set Go, we take pride in making every ride a safe, positive experience—for our riders and for all road users.

Interested in a professionally led guided ride or bike bus? Let’s chat.

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!

Discover the Best Way to Learn to Ride a Bike in Sydney with Pedal Set Go

Are you searching for the perfect spot to learn to ride a bike in Sydney? Whether you're starting your cycling journey or encouraging a loved one to take up bike riding, finding the right place and guidance is crucial. Sydney, a bustling city vying for space, offers limited areas ideal for beginners. That's where Pedal Set Go comes into play, providing professional, patient, and inclusive bike training for all ages. Let's explore why choosing professionals like Pedal Set Go is your best bet for learning to ride a bike in Sydney.

The Importance of Professional Bike Training

Learning to ride a bike is an exciting milestone, but it can also be filled with challenges and safety concerns. Here's why professional instruction from Pedal Set Go can make all the difference:

Experience and Patience: Unlike learning from a family member or friend, professional instructors bring a wealth of experience and a patience that ensures a positive and encouraging learning environment.

Safety First: At Pedal Set Go, safety isn't just a priority; it's a foundation of our teaching method. We focus on establishing good habits from the start, such as a comfortable seat height and the correct way to use brakes for mounting, dismounting, controlling speed, and stopping safely.

No Falls: Falling off isn't part of our program. Our method starts with the basics, gradually progressing to ensure you're confident and in control at every step.

Ideal Learning Environments: Finding a flat, good surface in Sydney can be challenging. We specialise in the Inner West, confident in our selection of locations like hard court surfaces, which are perfect for beginners. Our spots are generally free from the hustle and bustle, ensuring a distraction-free learning experience.

Why Seat Height and Brakes Matter

Often, inexperienced teachers or well-meaning friends might set the bike seat too high, leading to fear and a higher risk of falls. At Pedal Set Go, we start with the seat low, enabling better control and a smoother transition to pedaling. Understanding and using brakes effectively is another critical aspect of our training, ensuring you can stop safely and handle emergencies confidently.

The Pedal Set Go Difference

Pedal Set Go is among the few in Sydney that adhere to the UK National Standards for bike training, as well as specialising in adult learners. Our inclusive approach means we cater to everybody, regardless of your starting point. We believe in a no-pressure environment, allowing you to learn at your own pace.

No Training Wheels: Training wheels can actually slow down the learning process. We transform bikes into balance bikes, promoting quicker learning of balance and control. If you've been advised to start with training wheels and don't have a specific disability that necessitates them, we recommend seeking instruction that aligns with best practices in bike education.

In Sydney, where every square inch counts, Pedal Set Go stands out with its commitment to quality, safety, and inclusivity in bike training. Whether you're looking to navigate the city's streets confidently or simply enjoy a ride in the park, our professional instructors are here to guide you every pedal of the way.

Ready to embark on your cycling journey with us? Contact us to learn more about our programs and book your first session. In Sydney, learning to ride a bike is not just about finding the right path but starting the journey with the right guide.

Beyond Bright Colours: A Guide to High Visibility Behaviour for Urban Riders

Navigating city streets safely on a bike goes beyond sporting neon gear. Pedal Set Go champions High Visibility behaviour, a comprehensive approach ensuring bike riders are not just seen, but noticed, by all road users. This guide delves into effective cycling behaviours and practical tips for maximising visibility and safety in urban environments.

Rethinking High Visibility Clothing

While high-visibility gear plays a role in road safety, especially in low-light conditions, reliance solely on bright clothing is insufficient for urban cycling. Emerging research suggests that in bustling cityscapes, such attire might blend into a sea of distractions, diminishing its intended effect.

Recent studies indicate that the effectiveness of high-visibility clothing for cyclists might not hinge on the clothing itself, but on its contrast with the surroundings. Surprisingly, both white and black attire have been identified as capable of providing this necessary contrast.

People riding are encouraged to complement their bike gear with lights and reflective accessories during rain, dusk, or under dappled light conditions. Yet, the essence of being seen lies in behaviour over wardrobe choices.

The Essence of Cycling Safety: High Visibility Behaviour

Effective visibility on the road stems from High Visibility behaviour, which encompasses strategic positioning, like taking the primary position or 'taking the lane,' to ensure visibility where road users are most attentive. This behaviour enhances predictability and communication with other road users, which are crucial for safe urban cycling.

Strategies for High Visibility Behaviour

Smart Positioning: Ride confidently in the centre of the lane, especially in areas with parked cars, to avoid the door zone and ensure you're in the direct line of sight of both motorists and others wanting to enter and use the road space.

Active Engagement: Make eye contact, use clear hand signals, and occasionally, a smile or wave can significantly enhance your visibility to others.

Weather-Adapted Visibility: In poor visibility conditions, ensure your bike is equipped with efficient front and rear lights, and consider flashing lights or wearing reflective items that attract attention without relying solely on high-visibility clothing.

Beyond Gear: A Call for Shared Road Vigilance

Promoting a culture of safety involves recognising that high-visibility clothing is not a foolproof solution. It's a shared responsibility among all road users to maintain vigilance and support a safe environment. This perspective encourages a shift from focusing solely on what people wear to how they can actively engage in safe riding practices.

Incorporating urban cycling safety tips and effective riding behaviours into your routine can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, making city streets safer for everybody.

Conclusion

Embracing High Visibility Behaviour is pivotal for cyclists' safety in urban landscapes. It's about making informed choices—from the strategic use of bike lights to adopting road positions that ensure maximum visibility. At Pedal Set Go, we're committed to educating cyclists on safe riding practices, emphasising behaviour as the cornerstone of visibility and safety on the road.

We invite you to join the conversation. Share your experiences, tips, and thoughts on enhancing visibility and safety while cycling in the city. Together, we can foster a safer, more inclusive urban environment.

Beyond Cycling: Embracing Bike Riding as Everyday Transport

At Pedal Set Go, our mission is to break down the barriers that keep people from integrating bike riding into their daily lives. While the word "cycling" often conjures images of sport, competition, and high-performance athletes clad in Lycra, we prefer to focus on the simple joy and practicality of riding a bicycle. It's why you'll notice we don't use "cycling" or "cyclist" very often. Our goal is to humanise and normalise bike riding as an effective mode of transport that is accessible to everybody.

Why We Focus on Bike Riding

Bike riding is for all. It's a way to connect with your community, reduce your environmental impact, and improve your health, all at the same time. By emphasising bike riding over cycling, we aim to make this activity feel more inclusive and welcoming to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Whether you're heading to work, running errands, or just enjoying the outdoors, bike riding offers a versatile solution that aligns with sustainable and active transport principles.

Our Values Over SEO

We recognise that using terms like "cycling" might improve our search engine optimisation (SEO) and help more people find our services online. However, we believe that staying true to our values and promoting a more inclusive view of bike riding is more important. We are committed to providing bicycle education, consulting, training, and services that reflect these values. For those seeking access to bicycle education to build their confidence riding in the city or learning to ride for the first time, know that our approach is designed to welcome and support everybody, regardless of their experience level.

Addressing the Gap in Australian Bicycle Training Standards

While our programs are inspired by the UK's National Standards for Cycle Training and Bikeability, it's important to note that Australia currently lacks a unified national standard for bicycle training. This gap in standardised training means there's a wide variance in the quality and consistency of bike education across the country. At Pedal Set Go, we see this not as a hurdle but as an opportunity to lead by example and set a high standard for inclusive, comprehensive bike riding education.

Our approach is designed to fill this gap, offering a curriculum that covers essential skills for bike riders of all levels. From navigating traffic safely to understanding your rights and responsibilities on the road, our training is tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of riding in Australia. We advocate for the development and adoption of national standards similar to those in the UK, believing that such standards could significantly improve safety and accessibility for bike riders across the country.

By participating in our programs, you're not just learning how to ride a bike; you're also joining a movement that champions better, more standardised bike education in Australia. Together, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to high-quality bike riding training, making our communities safer and more welcoming for bike riders.

Education and Training

Our programs draw inspiration from the UK's National Standards for Cycle Training and Bikeability, ensuring that our curriculum and techniques cater to riders seeking practical skills for everyday life. We focus on overcoming common fears and barriers to bike riding, offering a range of services from beginner courses to advanced urban riding skills. Our approach ensures that bike riders are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to navigate their communities safely and efficiently.

A Sustainable and Active Lifestyle

Bike riding as a form of active transport is at the heart of creating sustainable communities. It's not just about reducing congestion and pollution; it's about promoting a healthier, more connected way of living. At Pedal Set Go, we are passionate about the role that bike riding can play in achieving these goals. We encourage everyone to consider how incorporating bike riding into their daily routine can make a positive impact on their lives and the environment.

Join Us

We invite you to join us in redefining what it means to ride a bike. Whether you're new to bike riding or looking to improve your skills, Pedal Set Go offers the support and education you need to make bike riding a regular part of your life. Together, we can create a community where bike riding is a natural and celebrated choice for transportation and leisure.

Let's pedal forward, embracing bike riding not just as a sport but as a vital component of an active, sustainable lifestyle. Because at Pedal Set Go, we believe bike riding is for everybody.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - NSW Bicycle Road Rules and Riding in Sydney

What are the basic road rules for riding a bicycle in NSW?

To ride a bicycle in NSW, you must follow the same road rules as drivers of motor vehicles. Some specific rules apply to cyclists, such as wearing a helmet, using hand signals, and obeying traffic lights. One of our favourites is being able to perform hook turns, a bike-specific road rule in NSW that often makes getting around by bike far quicker than driving. Pedal Set Go demonstrates how to do this manoeuvre and gives riders the opportunity to perform a hook turn during our on-road courses.

Where can I find a comprehensive guide to NSW bicycle road rules?

You can find detailed information on NSW bicycle road rules on the Transport for NSW Government website. For tips and guidelines on safe riding, visit the 'Safe Riding' section to ensure an informed, secure, and enjoyable riding experience.

Do I need to wear a helmet when cycling in NSW?

Yes, it is mandatory for all bike riders, regardless of age, to wear an approved helmet when riding on public roads or shared paths. Fines apply for non-compliance. The Consumer Goods (Bicycle Helmets) Safety Standard 2024 with additional information, including product recalls to be found at Product Safety Australia.

What are the designated bike lanes and shared paths in Sydney?

Sydney offers an extensive network of bike friendly streets, bike lanes and shared paths. You can explore interactive maps and information about cycling routes in Sydney on the City of Sydney website. If riding in Greater Sydney we recommend you use the Transport for NSW Trip Planner or Cycleway Finder to plan your trip. Check out your local council website's cycling section, as many have hard copies or PDF copies of maps you can download to help plan your journey. And if you want to use the best app for cycling in the city, many of the Pedal Set Go team use City Mapper.

The good news is that it can also be very easy and safe to get around where there is no bike-specific infrastructure if you follow a few basic principles. Pedal Set Go provides instruction and training on safe riding principles as well as guided rides to help you choose bike-friendly routes.

Can I ride an e-bike in NSW, and are there any specific regulations for e-bikes?

Yes, pedal assisted e-bikes are allowed in NSW. There are rules regarding maximum power output, speed limits, and age restrictions. For complete information on e-bike regulations, visit the Transport for NSW E-bike information page.

For your safety, Pedal Set Go highly recommends purchasing e-bikes exclusively from reputable manufacturers and suppliers. Stay informed about potential fire hazards related to Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs), including e-bikes which often feature lithium-ion batteries and associated risks, by regularly checking updates from Fire and Rescue NSW.

Are there any safety tips for cycling in Sydney?

Safety is important when cycling in the city. We advocate for high visibility behaviour, such as taking the lane, ensuring you can see and be seen, always being predictable, communicate with other road and path users and be gracious while remaining vigilant around traffic. You may choose to wear bright and reflective clothing, and it is compulsry to use lights when riding at night, . Consider taking a cycling safety course with Pedal Set Go for added confidence and knowledge.

Where can I find cycling groups or communities in Sydney?

Sydney has a vibrant bike riding community. You can connect with fellow cyclists and find group rides or events on platforms like Meetup, Strava, or local cycling clubs' websites. Pedal Set Go has a soft spot for inclusive groups that connect people to places, and those that often go slow and soak in the environment. Here are a few community riding and advocacy groups that share our values. Please let us know some of your favourites.

Sydney Night Rides

Bikeast

Omafiets

How can I promote safe cycling and eco-friendly transportation in Sydney?

You can promote safe cycling by following the rules, advocating for cycling infrastructure improvements, and supporting initiatives that promote sustainable transportation. Stay updated with local cycling advocacy groups and participate in community efforts. Consider becoming a member of Bicycle NSW with the added benefit of comprehensive personal accident and public liability rider insurance.

Where can I get bike maintenance and repair services in Sydney?

Numerous bike shops and repair services are available throughout Sydney. We recommend you support local businesses, and we explain why in our blog. You can use online directories or search engines to find the nearest bike shop for your maintenance needs. Pedal Set Go also offers maintenance courses as well as occasional free pop-up bike tune-ups at events on behalf of local government departments throughout the Greater Sydney area.

How can I stay updated on the latest cycling news and events in Sydney?

Pedal Set Go offers a dedicated section on its website for cycling news, events, and updates in Sydney. Check back frequently for the latest information to stay connected with the bike rider and cycling community via our social media channels.