Cycling in Sydney

Sydney is getting better for bike riding every year

With about 1500km of cycleways and recreational trails, there are a lot of options for getting around on two wheels. Whether you're going to work, getting to school or the shops, gliding past traffic on the way to the beach, or enjoying some exercise, bike is usually best!

It's encouraging to see more councils embrace cycling by installing safe off-road shared paths and protected bike lanes. Bicycle NSW supports these projects through ongoing advocacy with decision-makers and comprehensive submissions.

Much of the best bike infrastructure is hidden away from main roads

It takes a bit of practice and research to find good routes. CycleSydney.Wiki (formerly BikeTrail.Blog) provides excellent resources and maps for planning trips on shared paths and cycleways away from traffic. The Bicycle tracks in Sydney page lists several of our favourite easy bike rides. We have also assembled some mountain biking ideas. For those after something more challenging the Greater Sydney Bike Trail, a 230km loop around the city, will not disappoint.

The Facebook group 'Sydney Bike Commuters' is a great sounding board for cycling in Sydney, with an active community sharing advice on route planning. Check out your council website for cycling courses, maps and guided rides. The City of Sydney has fantastic courses that are open to non-residents.  In addition, you can contact Bicycle NSW for helpful tips and maps.

There are several Bicycle User Groups or BUGs in Sydney that run regular rides for their members. BUGs are fantastic for making friends who share a common passion for all things cycling. A BUG will help you learn the best bike routes, get fit and have fun in the process.

Need to hire a bike to get started? We have compiled some options for bike rentals by the minute, hour, day, week or month!

Please get in touch if you're interested in contributing an article about your favourite Sydney ride. These stories and experiences provide important insights into the thrills and challenges of cycling in Sydney. They also provide inspiration for others to discover Sydney on two wheels. All stories and photos will be uploaded to the Cycling News section of our website and, shared across our social media channels.

It is a good idea to join Bicycle NSW before hitting the cycleways 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.