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Discovering Sydney on two wheels

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore a large city like Sydney. You can enjoy some exercise, independent from public transport timetables and the dramas of finding a parking spot, whilst creating an experience that is unique to you.

The city’s rapidly improving network of cycling infrastructure will allow you to feel safe whilst you visit the scenic spots, from the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, to the beach suburbs and the national parks.

And you don’t need to own a bike to ride to check out the sights on two wheels!

Whether you’re a tourist passing through Sydney, or you’ve lived here all your life - hiring a bike can unlock new areas of the map.

Riding around Sydney is hands-down the best way to explore the famous sights, or see something different!

Tourists exploring Sydney by bike

Never hired a bike?

Good news - it’s incredibly easy. Sydney has a variety of options that are suitable for a range of needs and preferences:

Going from A to B

If you’re simply hopping from a cafe to the beach, or a museum to a restaurant, shared e-bikes are a great solution. Private companies operate Sydney’s bike share schemes.  Lime remains one of the most universally accessible options for a short journey. Ario and Hello are other alternatives. You just need to download the appropriate app onto your phone then scan the QR on the shared e-bike and away you go. Don't forget to put on the attached helmet! 

Leisurely Exploring

If you’re aiming to go further and spend a few hours, or the whole day, exploring Sydney by bike, then Bonza Bike Tours can help get you rolling.. Located centrally, in The Rocks, their entry level bikes are $50 for 24hours.

For something a little different, Centennial Park Cycles has a range of pedal cars, suitable for families who want to loop around one of Sydney’s most popular parks. They also have tandems and children’s bikes available.

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Experienced Cyclists 

If you’re after a high-performance bike to shake out a flight or stretch the legs, Livelo Bike Rental has a fleet of Cinelli Superstar road bikes. They can be set up with all the accessories you require, and delivered to your location of choice. A hassle-free option to keep your weekly mileage consistent while away from home. And, if you're not sure where to ride, just tap Livelo's local knowledge, grab a Garmin GPS or book a Livelo guide to ride with you.

Another premium option is via MC Cyclery, who offer some of the best Cannondale and Trek models.

Travelling Further 

If you’re planning to include a train journey in your travels, Omafiets bike shop in Alexandria offers overnight and week-long hire options for foldable Brompton bikes. Omafiets can also help out for longer trips out of town with a brilliant Surly that is built for touring or bikepacking 

Omafiets is one of the best reviewed bike shops in Sydney

In town for a longer stint?

Then you might be keen to rent a bike on a monthly basis from one of Sydney’s subscription companies.

Whether you need to commute or transport your family, Lug + Carrie  has a great selection of e-bikes and accessories to suit every rider. Hire starts at $48 per week, including at-home delivery, repairs and maintenance and insurance.  Bicycle NSW Members receive a 50% discount for the first 8 weeks of a Lug & Carrie bike rental.

Sydney EBike Rentals, located in Pyrmont, offers a wide range of e-bikes for casual riders and food delivery services. Subscriptions include helmets, locks, and lights. Also check out Zoomo’s range of high-quality branded e-bikes, suitable for a wide range of users. 

Another possibility is the Revolve ReCYCLING ‘buy-back’ scheme. Revolves sells a range of re-furbished bikes - hybrids, commuters, mountain bikes and road bikes - that are branded, high-quality, affordable and warrantied. If you return a bike after 6 months or more, Revolve refunds the original price minus 10% per month of use.

Note: This page was last updated in July 2025. Please contact the companies listed for the latest information.

Tips for riding safely around Sydney

Some guidance for cycling is universal: indicate with hand signals, don’t ride whilst using your phone in your hand, and don’t exceed the alcohol limit.

We’ve chosen to highlight some tips that we think are more unique to cycling in Sydney specifically:

  • A simple one to begin with. For those visiting Australia for the first time: ride on the left hand side of road!
  • The Australian sun is notoriously strong. If you’re riding in the warmer months, taking a water bottle and suncream is strongly encouraged . Consider covering as much skin as possible with some light clothing, even if you’re only out for an hour or two. 
  • Helmets are mandatory in New South Wales. No exceptions - even for e-bikes.
  • Quite often you might find yourself on shared paths. It’s useful to be aware of them so you can be courteous to other riders and walkers. You cannot ride on a footpath unless you are under 16, or accompanying someone who is under 16.
  • If you’re planning to ride when it’s dark, be prepared with lights attached to your bike.
  • Some of Sydney’s cycling infrastructure is disjointed and ends abruptly, pushing you onto roads with fast-moving traffic and little shoulder. Anticipate a break in your journey. When in doubt, dismount and push your bike on the footpath until you feel comfortable again.
Bike hire Sydney participants ride through colourful Prince Alfred Park in Sydney
The Social Ride group on Pyrmont Bridge with Bicycle NSW Active Transport Planner Sarah Bickford

Where to ride?

Bicycle NSW has compiled extensive resources to inspire your choice of route.

Our blog post - Great cycling routes in Sydney - is a useful starting point for planning a route, which includes the popular loop of Iron Cove Bay, as well as the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail on the north side of the harbour. 

Also, CycleSydney.Wiki is a wonderful resource for exploring Sydney’s cycle routes with maps, photos and videos. 

Before hitting the trail

It’s a good idea to join Bicycle NSW before hitting the trail to benefit from top-of-the-range insurance.  Importantly, you will also support our advocacy and campaigns to make everywhere in NSW better for bike riding.

Not quite ready to sign up? Then please consider making a one off donation to support the work we’re doing.

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