For a long time I have liked the idea of cycling. It fits my philosophy of life – mostly in avoiding the need to actually use my driver’s licence, but also in trying to live into the sustainability I would like to see more of. A friend gave me her hand-me-down bike when I moved to Parramatta a few years ago. Sadly, living off a busy road inconveniently located at the top of a hill saw the bike neglected. I wasn’t game to ride downhill alongside all that traffic. With a move closer to the city imminent, I was determined that in a new (hopefully flat) environment I would learn to ride my bike.
The problem with trying to learn how to usefully ride a bike in Sydney is all the cars. I don’t like driving let alone cycling near Sydney cars; a bike goes slower and with less outer layers for protection. Drivers have a reputation for a lack of patience with cyclists; cycling can feel “in the way” and an obstruction to the free flow of traffic. Enter the City of Sydney’s free Cycling in the City Course, run at Sydney Park by Bikewise.
The four-hour course aims to make cycling a sensible and effective transport option. We began with theory and some practical advice: See and be seen; plan your route carefully; ride graciously. This was followed by practice exercises at the cycling centre before hitting the road as a group.
We rode between Sydney Park and Central Station, often amazed when the instructors pointed out where we were, crossing Botany Road or Elizabeth Street. There were drills at three locations, giving participants the opportunity to practise riding elements such as stopping, turning and deciding where to take position on the road. On our return I was quietly amazed that we had made it.
Two days later I took the plunge. Filling my water bottle, donning my helmet, route-map in hand, I commuted from home to a work meeting. Having planned a route based on the local council cycleways map I barely encountered traffic. I arrived at the meeting proud and invigorated, finally believing the words of the course leaders: “Route planning is everything.” The home leg was also successful, cementing the sense of confidence instilled through participating in the course. I don’t imagine I will ever ride particularly far or fast, but riding will be enmeshed in my transport routines. Neglected no more, my steed and I will be route-planning many an adventure.
