Whether you want to ride to commute, to get fit or just for fun, you’ll need to consider a few points to get you going.
Selecting a bike
Before buying a bike, consider:
- how often you are likely to ride
- what sort of riding you will be doing (recreation, shopping, commuting, touring, racing)
- where you will be riding (suburban streets, country roads, gravel roads, bike paths, off- road, race tracks)
- how much you would like to spend
You can choose between city bikes, hybrids, touring, racing bikes, mountain bikes or bmx. Hybrids or mountain bikes are probably the best for commuting. See more pros and cons of the different options on the Queensland Transport website.
Setup and bike size
If you purchase your bike through a bike shop, they can help you get the right setup. To get the right frame size, ensure there is 25-50mm clearance from the horizontal bar when you are straddling the bike if it’s a road bike and 40-100mm for a mountain bike. Adjust the seat height so there is a slight bend in your knee when your leg is extended on the pedal. You shouldn’t be tilting from side to side to reach the pedals when you are riding. The seat should be level or very slightly upturned.
Handlebar height is a personal choice and depends on the type of riding you are doing, but for commuting you might find that higher handlebars are more comfortable, allow you to be more visible in traffic and put less strain on your back and neck.
If you decide to purchase a secondhand bike, it will be a lot easier if you already have a good idea of the sort of bike you are after. You will also need to know your size. This is fairly individual, so it’s best to sit on a few bikes and maybe do a test ride to find out your ideal size.
Safety
To ride safely, you must always ride with front and rear lights, a helmet and a bell.
When riding on the road consider the following:
- Stay aware
- Be assertive but not aggressive or foolish
- Be visible with bright and/or reflective clothing
- Be predictable and obey the road rules
- Keep a constant line and don’t dart in and out of traffic
- Don’t ride in the gutter
Riding on footpaths is legal in Queensland but if you aren’t prepared to give way to pedestrians, use the road instead. When sharing a bikeway with pedestrians, slow down as you approach them and ring your bell to warn them of your approach.
Cycling accessories
You should always carry a pump and flat tyre repair kit. A good quality lock is essential even for short trips. ‘D’ locks are more expensive but offer greater security.
Depending on the length of trip you intend doing, purchasing some riding knicks (lycra bike shorts with comfort padding or leather chamois insert), gloves, cycling shoes, a bike rack and panniers (saddlebags for bicycles) can make your ride more comfortable. Remember to take a water bottle as well. If you are riding at night, good quality lights are essential.
Getting mobile!
Once you have all the equipment essentials in place, you can get on your bike and start riding! If you are just starting out, three or four rides per week of 15-20 minutes duration will be enough to start building up your confidence and level of fitness. Once you are confident, you can consider riding to commute, to maintain or improve your fitness level for touring or even to compete with other cyclists.
Commuting
Regular commuting by bicycle will improve your fitness, save you money on travel expenses and contribute to reducing pollution from motor vehicles. If you live a considerable distance from your destination, you could consider a bike rack for your car and do a drive-ride combination. Plan your route carefully to make best use of bike paths and quiet streets where possible. You might be surprised how many cars you pass in peak hour traffic! You’ll need to consider where you will be able to store your bike securely at your destination, how to get your clothes to work in a presentable state and facilities for showering and getting dressed at the end of your ride. Consider taking a batch of clothes in on the days you take public transport.
Recreation and fitness
Start slowly and build your riding time and distance up gradually to ensure it is sustainable. Riding with friends and family is a great motivator and finding some attractive cycle routes will also add to the experience. Cycle paths and quiet streets are again best for the beginner. A bike rack on your car will give you the option of accessing rides some distance from your home. Local bike shops and cycling clubs are a great source of information about the best rides.
Cycling around Brisbane
Cycling is a great way to see our beautiful city and get fit at the same time. Here's where you'll find detailed, downloadable maps of Brisbane's beautiful bikeways.
Brisbane City Council has a number of initiatives that support cyclists. Bikeways, bike paths and bike awareness zones contribute to the network of routes open to cyclists.
Bike shops and clubs
Use the ourbrisbane.com directory to browse Bicycle Shops and Bicycle Clubs.
