Fuel price rises are prompting talk about switching car journeys to a bicycle. Some people can’t easily do this, but if you can, here are answers to some common questions.
It’s been ages since I’ve ridden a bicycle, how do I get back into it?
- First check the chain is oiled, brakes are working and tyres are pumped. There are basic You Tube tutorials that can help you or take it to your local bike mechanic. Bike preparation | Tips & Resources | Bicycle Network
- Join one of the Bicycle Network free social rides to get some kilometres under your belt and talk to our experienced ride leaders. Bicycle Network Tasmania - Rides Club
- Book in for one-on-one Back on your Bike sessions to hone your riding skills and get tips on riding on the road. Back On Your Bike | Rides and Programs | Bicycle Network
I’ve never ridden for transport, how do I start?
- Look where the safer cycling infrastructure is near your workplace or home. In Hobart the Intercity Cycleway, Foreshore Trail and Hobart Rivulet path provide off-road routes, in the north-west the Coastal Pathway, and in Launceston shared paths to Tailrace Park and Newnham university campus and along the levee banks.
- Can you map a route that includes quieter residential streets, parks and reserves, painted lanes and footpaths to get you to an off-road route?
- If you live too far to ride the whole way, can you drive part of the way, park free of charge and then use a cycling route to get you there? This can save money on petrol and parking.
- If you live on Hobart’s eastern shore can you ride to the ferry terminal? You can take your bike on board and ride it on the other side. You can also ride to bus park and rides and park your bike in the dedicated bike sheds but make sure you have a very good quality lock as the sheds are open to anyone.
Should I buy an e-bike?
- E-bikes are an ideal way to cover trips of 5-10 kilometres and longer if you are a fit. E-bikes make riding easier, so you don’t have to worry about sweaty clothes or getting over steep hills and can carry more than on a standard bicycle.
- E-bikes are an investment, compare them to the cost of a second-hand car rather than standard bicycle. You are looking at $3000-plus for a good quality bike, more if you are regularly tackling steep hills with loads.
- If you are not sure if an e-bike will suit you, sign up to borrow a bike from the Hobart E-bike Library for two weeks to give you an idea of whether it will fit your needs. Hobart’s Free E-Bike Library - Hobart eBike Library
- If you can’t afford an e-bike, look at leasing. Some workplaces allow e-bikes in salary packaging and include all the maintenance of the bike. Most bike stores offer a buy-now-pay-later option, but check the fine print for final purchase cost.
- A street legal e-bike motor is 250 watts and cuts out at 25km/h, requires the rider to pedal and does not have a throttle that works over 6 km/h. If you have steep hills in your commute look for a motor that has around 70 Nm of torque or above.
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