COVID-19 restrictions are being eased with people soon able to exercise in groups in 10 – but we still have some time to wait until we can go back to big bunch rides.
From 11:59pm on Tuesday 12 May 2020 restrictions will be eased in Victoria to allow outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people, up from the current maximum of two, as long as people maintain physical distancing of 1.5 metres.
The same rules will apply in Tasmania from Monday 18 May.
According to the new rules, when going for a bike ride you should:
- Keep at least 1.5 metres between yourself and others
- Not be with more than 9 people riding at the same time (10 people riding together at one time is allowed)
- Not ride for an unreasonable amount of time
- Not join others for a ride if you have minor symptoms or aren't feeling well.
It's exciting that there has been a change to restrictions, but common sense should be the key approach to protect ourselves and the community.
Close-knit bunch riding is still not recommended where you can't keep at least 1.5 metres between yourself and other riders.
Bicycle Network is asking people to continue physical distancing, remain cautious and make sensible, appropriate decisions when going for a ride.
Other changes to rules about leaving home for recreation purposes mean that you can also go to a local park or greenspace for to ride, including mountain biking. If you do plan to do this it is a good idea to check that the place you are going is open.
While you can mountain bike ride, bike packing and camping trips are not allowed as you are not allowed to have overnight stays away from home.
Riding a bike with your family is still one of the best ways that you can get your daily exercise, but you should maintain physical distancing when passing other people on a trail or road.
These government regulations have been introduced to protect the health and safety of the community so where they may appear broad, let's agree to err on the side of caution.
The current COVID-19 guidelines for Victoria that allow exercising are available here.
Click here to see Bicycle Network's full advice for bike riding during COVID-19.