Canberra, the next cycling capital?

Day 14: Queanbeyan, NSW

It was back on the road, without our packs and panniers! We could not believe the cycleway available. First we cycled from Queanbeyan, NSW to Fyshwick, ACT on bike paths. After a short stop in Canberra city centre, we rode all the way to Dickson for lunch. The giant ‘bagel’ (more like just a bun) made up for the light but frequent meals we had on our ride from Goulburn to Queanbeyan. But it was yumm~~ On our way back to the city, we went on the bike paths along a waterway.

We noticed many more people on push bikes in Canberra than we do in Sydney. Sue thinks when you do see people commuting with bicycles in Sydney, they are normally clad in cycle jerseys, padded bike shorts and pro-looking cycle shoes. Unlike here, where you can see moms with baby on bicycles, girl in dress with cowboy boots on vintage push-bikes as well as those in sporty outfits. Cool! “Not quite like the Netherlands though”, Lukas said. Well, it’s a start. Have a look at Copenhagen Cycle Chic, a fashion blog of people on 2 wheels and you’ll see what Sue means.

We were on the road home at the most inconvenient time: rush hour! Blessed with the bike paths, we still had to ride on-road on some parts. Although the rush hour traffic is nothing compared to Sydney, the stress and impatience of some drivers may be similar. All we have to say: Blink, people… blink! It is not the fault our judgement when drivers do not indicate when they are turning and having to slow down as we crossed.

That said, we both still look forward to our stay here in the next 2-3 weeks. We just need to avoid biking during rush hours. ; ) And not letting Oskar (Dan’s pet ferret) out of his cage. He bit Sue!!

Locations: [NSW] North Sydney - Heathcote - Coledale - Wollongong - Robertson - Moss Vale – Goulburn – Queanbeyan