Ride On Magazine Summer 2025

Page 1


CONTENTS

FEATURES

12

40 YEARS OF THE GREAT VIC BIKE RIDE Ride On looks back at November’s 40th Great Vic.

16

SANTOS TOUR DOWN UNDER GUIDE

Celebrating 25 years in 2025, Ride On presents your comprehensive guide to the event of the year, the Santos Tour Down Under

24

BEARDY’S TOP 5 TASSIE RIDES

Celebrated cycling photographer

Beardy McBeard showcases stunning imagery and details his favourite Tasmanian bike rides.

30

THE GREATER SYDNEY BIKE TRAIL

150 & 220 km car-free loops around Sydney? You bet! Here we ride and explore the Greater Sydney 150.

Our Cover: Dream cycling in Tasmania with Apres Velo.

Image: Beardy McBeard

REVIEWS

8 H ot Products

48 Cervelo Aspero

We take this versatile gravel bike to the remote & isolated Beecroft Peninsula Weapons Range in NSW.

52 R ibble Gravel Ti

A close look at a classic titanium framed all-rounder from 100+ year-old UK bike brand Ribble.

56 E xposure TraceR

We ride and review this rugged alloy bike light.

57 Ergon Bike Fit Kit

We test out a handy DIY bike fit kit.

or

to

The publisher, authors and editors, expressly disclaim all and any liability or responsibility to any person, reader or purchaser of this publication in response to any action or reliance, whether wholly or partially related to any part of the contents in this publication. Readers should rely on their own enquiries in making any decisions which relate to the content in this publication.

WELCOME

OUR MEMBERS ASKED, AND WE LIStened! We are thrilled to announce the return of Ride On, our member magazine. It turns out that reports of the death of print were greatly exaggerated.

With well over 170,000 members and friends, Bicycle Network is a broad church, furthering the interests of everyone who rides a bike, and everyone who might ride one in future.

We’re not just an advocacy organisation, or an event manager, or a supplier of bike parking equipment or behaviour change programs or secure bike parking at stations…we are all those things because there’s no silver bullet for getting people on bikes.

We’re a charity. Your membership and contributions fund our activities. For 50 years we have helped hundreds of thousands of people discover the joys of bike riding. We’re so fortunate to lead the organisation and work with such a passionate community.

The bike is life-changing, and we want to be part of your riding journey. We are inclusive and welcome everyone. Sometimes the first steps are the most daunting. We put a lot of energy into programs like Open Streets, where we close off a street near a primary school and break down barriers that prevent kids from riding. It can be even harder to get back on a bike, so we also do adult education programs that encourage mums, lapsed riders, and refugee women onto two wheels – we’re here for everyone.

Once people have begun their riding journey, we provide bigger journeys to conquer. Thousands of people have gone from the Great Vic to the United Energy Around the Bay to the toughest of them all, the Peaks Challenge. Some of the most satisfied are those who go back to the Great Vic with their kids and even grandkids, creating bonds and memories that last more than one lifetime.

Post-pandemic, people have been slow to return to some mass participation events. You’ve no doubt heard about or noticed the number of music festivals and bike rides that have been cancelled over recent years.

But if you ask our nine Around the Bay Legends - who have ridden the event thirty times in a row - they’ll

confirm how their date with destiny every October motivates them through the winter months.

If you don’t participate, then our events won’t be around for our kids to enjoy, so now is the time to show your support.

One of the best things you can do is introduce new people to riding, for example with a corporate membership that includes event participation for you and your workmates.

The pandemic has changed so much about the way we live, work, and get around. The “new normal” is still establishing itself, but overall, more people are riding, and of those who aren’t, 80% would like to. Our members’ biggest concerns are:

• Driver education, behaviour, and ensuring all road users obey the rules

• Bike riding infrastructure—safe, connected paths encourage more people to ride

• Road conditions and maintenance

• Access to suitable bike riding routes

We’re putting our advocacy efforts into these areas, working with governments, councils, and the fantastic local BUGs. We write submissions, serve on stakeholder panels, consult on bike infrastructure, and leverage artificial intelligence for traffic data collection and analysis.

Whether you’re a member (thank you!), a volunteer, an event participant, a sponsor, or a donor – your contribution counts.

Thanks for your support, and enjoy reading the all-new Ride On.

Summer 2025

Editorial

Editor Nat Bromhead

Designer Karl Hilzinger

Publisher Advertising

Ride On Sales (03) 8376 8888

2025 Booking Deadlines

14 March 13 June 12 September 12 December

Contact

rideon@bicyclenetwork.com.au rideonmagazine.com.au

To comment on articles go to rideonmagazine.com.au

Ride On Magazine

Level 4, 246 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Vic, 3000

Please note

Prices and availability of products reviewed may vary between retail outlets.

Goods and services offered by organisations and individuals, content included and views expressed in Ride On are not necessarily associated with Bicycle Network.

Printing

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The views expressed in these pages are those of the writers, not Ride On. We often publish comments that we don’t personally agree with, but feel these pages should reflect your views, not ours. We do, however, reserve the right to edit letters when necessary. The letters are a very popular part of the magazine, and we value your contributions. Write to us at rideon@bicyclenetwork.com.au

LETTERS

DEAR RIDE ON,

As middle-aged returnees to the joys, camaraderie, and health benefits of cycling, it’s reassuring to know you truly have our backs.

Earlier this year, during a trip overseas, my partner and I discovered the extensive network of bike-only paths in Europe, both rural and urban. It was an eye-opening experience and an incredible way to explore historic towns and cities in France, Italy, Belgium, and Holland. There’s something magical about touring by bike—it’s fast enough to cover much more ground than walking, yet slow enough to allow for plenty of spontaneous stops.

We returned home reinvigorated and excited about cycling again. Shortly after, we learned about Bicycle Network, and the return of the magazine, and we are now proud members.

Here in Sydney, we ride with more trepidation but still prefer two wheels over four whenever practical and possible. While Sydney

EDITOR’S DESK

often gets a bad rap for its cycling infrastructure, I’m encouraged by positive developments, such as the Harbour Bridge cycleway upgrade and gradual improvements to bike lanes and paths across the city. Little by little, I see the green shoots of a growing community of riders enjoying our beautiful city by bike.

Thank you for all you do to support cycling and make it safer and more accessible for everyone.

Kind regards, Alison

DEAR EDITOR,

I am writing to say congratulations to Bicycle Network on the return of Ride On magazine. As a former reader, I was thrilled to hear the news that the publication is making its way back after an eight-year absence.

For so many of us in the cycling community, Ride On was more than just a magazine—it was a trusted companion that informed, inspired,

YOU ASKED FOR IT, AND HERE IT IS. WAY BACK IN the BC days (yes, Before Covid), Bicycle Network announced that Ride On magazine would be coming to an end with the focus being on other aspects of Australia’s peak bike riding advocacy organisation.

Since then, Bicycle Network has been inundated with reader and member requests to ‘bring back Ride On ’. The organisation has always maintained a member-first focus and is proud to present this inaugural edition of Ride On 2.0.

It’s a huge decision to resurrect a print title in these days of widespread digital disruption, but members have been particularly passionate about the return of Ride On, a title that can be traced back to the former Bicycle Victoria’s first regular newsletters in the 1970’s.

Pedal Power #1 was presented at the first Bicycle Institute of Victoria Annual General Meeting in April 1976. It consisted of 20 foolscap pages of advocacy for the benefits of bicycling and the rights of riders. Keen to see it? Search ‘Pedal Power’ on the Ride On website.

Jump forward almost 50 years and modern-day Bicycle Network is thrilled to relaunch Ride On as a quarterly print title, and also rebuild the www.rideonmagazine website.

and connected riders. From the practical advice and gear reviews to the stories of unforgettable rides and passionate advocacy for better cycling conditions, Ride On captured the spirit of bike riding in all its forms.

Bringing the magazine back is a testament to Bicycle Network’s dedication to supporting riders and fostering a stronger sense of community. It feels like an old friend is returning, and I cannot wait to see how it evolves.

Warm regards, Trevor Sanderson

We want to hear from you! Send you tips, advice, brickbats, bouquets, news or views through to us via editor@rideonmagazine.com.au

Each of the four seasonal print editions will feature a wide range of content from commuting and urban riding through to touring and bike packing along with top-level WorldTour action. We’ll present bike, gear and destination reviews, reader stories from Australia and around the world, and will retain a strong editorial stance on advocacy, safer cycling and getting more bums on bikes.

In addition to each quarterly print edition, the website is continually updated and also features an enormous cache of historical content. Visit the site today, save it to your favourites, and we look forward to seeing you there between editions of the magazine.

Before signing off, a huge thanks to awesome bike industry partners who have financially supported us via advertising in the magazine, and an enormous thank you to members and friends who’ve straight up subscribed to the title.

Ride On is your magazine and we’d love your comments, thoughts and opinions. You can get in touch via natb@bicyclenetwork.com.au

Safe riding out there, and Ride On!

Nat Bromhead, Editor.

BUNDABERG COUNCIL VOTE NO TO RAIL TRAIL

The highly-anticipated and popular plans for a 50km Bundaberg-Gin Gin Rail Trail have been put on ice with the local Council citing a funding shortfall of $20M.

Bundaberg Regional Council had previously announced the proposed trail aimed to transform the historic rail corridor into a recreational space for walking, cycling, and outdoor activities.

More than 2000 people completed an online survey with more than half of respondents saying they would visit specifically to use the rail trail. Sixty-six per cent indicated they would stay overnight and 75% said they would stay in paid accommodation.

Gin Gin, a small but busy tourist town on the Bruce Highway, is a popular stop-off point for thousands of visitors each week. The town features the start of the proposed country-to-coast trail, a 3.5km section to Tirroan Village.

Bundaberg Regional Council spokesperson Cr Deb Keslake explained that a detailed business case revealed the project would cost $39.799 million, far exceeding the combined $19.112 million funding commitment from the State Government and Council, leaving a $20.687 million shortfall.

“Unfortunately, we are not in a financial position to move forward with the Bundaberg-Gin Gin Rail Trail at this time,” Cr Keslake said. “Our primary responsibility is to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of Council, and that means making some difficult decisions about what projects we can realistically deliver.”

MARK CAVENDISH RETIRES ON TOP

‘Manx Missile’ Mark Cavendish raced his last event as a professional bike rider in November, the 38yo officially retiring after a phenomenal 20-year career in pro cycling.

Fittingly winning his final race, the Singapore Criterium, the last-blast victory capped off a fairytale year for Cavendish - the highlight being his historic 35th stage victory at the Tour de France. Passing the great Eddy Merckx as the leading all-time Tour de France stage winner, Cavendish bowed out in style, thanking all who supported his long and lumpy career.

“Cycling has given me so much and I love the sport,” Cavendish said after his final race as a pro. “I’ve always wanted to make a difference in it and now I am ready to see what the next chapter has in store for me. Thank you, everyone, for all the support, always.”

Cavendish has built his career on a ‘never say die’ attitude, and has regularly risen from the ashes. Could he make yet another comeback? “You finish a race and you think ‘I’m never doing that again’, then a couple of days later you miss it,” he recently said. “We’ll see.”

NEW KOROROIT CREEK TRAIL SECTION OPENED

A new 1km walking and cycling path along Kororoit Creek, connecting Grieve Parade to Geelong Road, was officially opened in November. This trail is part of the missing link to the Federation Trail in Laverton North and boasts extra-wide sections, revegetation and landscaping.

Until now, the lower Kororoit Creek Trail finished at the GJ Hosken Reserve in Altona North. The new section crosses from the east to the west side of the creek over a historic bluestone bridge that once hosted the old Geelong Road.

The Federation Trail section between Millers Road and Fogarty Avenue has also reopened after

West Gate Freeway widening works, with upgrades including a smoother, stronger surface and some widened sections of the trail.

These improvements are part of the West Gate Tunnel Project, delivering over 14km of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths to improve safety and connectivity.

Once the WGTP is complete, scheduled for the end of 2025, cyclists will have a dedicated path from Werribee to the city, including the missing link along the Federation Trail from Fogarty Avenue which will link to other walking and cycling paths leading to the city.

NORTHERN RIVERS TRAIL EXTENDED

The Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail officially opened in mid-December. This is Stage 2 of the revered trail and connects Lismore with Bentley.

When complete, the 132 km trail will link Murwillumbah with Casino. This extensive Rail Trail network showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the stunning Northern Rivers region. It is on track to be one of the nation’s most impressive trails. The completed trail will pass through four local government areas and includes -

MORE PEOPLE TURN TO TWO WHEELS OVER FOUR

More people are opting for alternative travel solutions as the cost of living crisis continues, with bikes emerging as a popular choice.

Freshly released data from Australia’s major automobile associations reveals that the average household spends around $460 per month on car expenses. Loan repayments and fuel make up more than two-thirds of this cost, with additional expenses for insurance, servicing, tyres, and registration. This marks an increase from last year when average monthly carrunning costs were $415.

The data follows a 2023 survey by the Climate Council of Australia, which found that 71 per cent of Australians are actively working to reduce motor vehicle expenses. According to Bicycle Network, the number of Australians commuting by bike has risen by an average of 6 per cent nationwide over the past year.

Richmond Valley section: Bentley to Casino 13.4 km (open now)

Lismore section: Eltham to Bentley 31.8 km (construction underway)

Byron section: Yelgun to Eltham 62.8 km (planning is underway)

Ride On has recently ridden the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, we’ll have a comprehensive destination feature in an upcoming edition.

TASSIE TRAIL UNVEILED

Tasmania’s latest addition to the Coastal Pathway—a 13.2km section from Wynyard to Cooee near Burnie—officially opened in late October. Built on a disused rail line, the 2.5m-wide path includes a refurbished rail bridge and connects to the existing 50km of completed pathway between Latrobe, Ulverstone, Penguin, and Sulphur Creek.

To celebrate, Bicycle Network volunteers hosted a social ride for 60 participants from the University of Tasmania’s Burnie Campus to the opening event, attended by state and federal politicians as well as the mayors of Burnie and Waratah-Wynyard.

The ride was led by Bicycle Network volunteer Keith Price, a longtime advocate for the project since its inception decades ago.

The Coastal Pathway now extends from Wynyard to Latrobe, though gaps remain between Wivenhoe and Heybridge east of Burnie, West Ulverstone and Penguin, and through Turners Beach.

YOUR SAY

Have your say on the above news articles, the content in this return edition of Ride On Magazine, or any other issue related to recreational, commuter and the sport of cycling. We are keen to hear your thoughts and welcome feedback and Letters to the Editor. Email Ride On via editor@rideonmagazine.com.au

The Tweed section: Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek 24 km (open now)

HOT PRODUCTS

MERIDA URBAN COMMUTERS

WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A TRUSTY CITY COMpanion, a reliable commuter, or a weekend exploration and escape machine, Merida’s eFLOAT range of electric assist bikes are impressive-looking options.

With four new models available in Australia, the bikes feature the proven Bosch drive system along with a strong, stylish and practical frame design. The Aussie lineup includes the eFLOAT CITY 400 EG, eFLOAT CC L 500 EQ and eFLOAT CC 400 EQ (in two colours). These urban offerings range from $5,299 to $6,199 and are built with thoughtful details for convenience and versatility.

THE SWITCH FOLDING LOCK

UK BRAND HIPLOCK’S SWITCH IS A TOPquality folding bike lock with a unique switching system that allows the user to easily carry it on the bike or body.

With premium hardened steel bars linking to steel rivets, the SWITCH provides impressive security and an extended locking length, which can also be folded down into a compact portable package.

Fully equipped with essentials such as a Bosch Purion 200 display, an integrated Abus security lock, heavy-duty rear carrier, mudguards, lights, and a kickstand, the range will allow you to load up groceries, park with confidence, and navigate the city or suburbs during the day or after dark.

The eFLOAT range features Shimano’s trusty 9-speed drivetrain and Linkglide technology for smooth gear shifting.

“Paired with the trusted Bosch Performance Line motor, the eFLOAT delivers just the right amount of power to support a seamless and enjoyable ride across town,” says Merida.

To enhance urban comfort, all eFLOAT CITY models come with suspension forks and an adjustable stem, so you can fine-tune your riding position whether commuting or enjoying a weekend spin.

Looking to ride city streets during the week and rail trails on the weekend? The 400 EQ model combines the low-stepthrough aluminium frame and powerful Bosch CX drive unit plus a 600-watt hour battery with fat 2.4” MTB tyres on 29” wheels and a 120 mm suspension fork. It’s a commuter and off-road explorer all in one.

Sizes include Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large, and the bikers come in a wide range of colours.

You can see the Merida eFLOAT range at 99 Bikes stores or your local Merida dealer, and Ride On have put in a request to review this bike in the next edition.

More at www.merida-bikes.com

Included with the lock is a clip for carrying it on your belt or bag strap. If you prefer to carry the lock on the bike frame, an included bracket and custom plate allow you to swap between carrying it or a water bottle without having to change the holder. This is particularly helpful if you are using your bike for both commuting and leisure.

MET IDOLO HELMET

AN ENTRY-LEVEL HELMET that oozes style and class but comes in priced at around $100. That’s the Idolo from MET, a simple, affordable, practical and greatlooking helmet. MET says the Idolo is a study in creating a high-value helmet affordably, with a revised aesthetic to make it look like a helmet twice the price.

Available in two sizes, from 52-59cm and 59-64, the helmet features 17 air vents and reflective decals on the rear and is certified by Australian Standards. Colour-wise, options are Gloss White, Matt Black, or Gloss Titanium.

KEY POINTS

• Six premium hardened steel bars link that provide up to 85cm locking length.

• The lock folds down to a compact package measuring 19cm x 4.2cm.

• Included is a SWITCH Clip carry system for carrying on the bike or body.

• The included SWITCH plate fits either the lock or a water bottle.

• The total weight is 1.05kg.

• Three keys are included.

• The lock is covered by a lifetime warranty. The lock is available in Green or Black and has an RRP of $129.95 at your nearest 99 Bikes or local bike store.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE

• In-mould polycarbonate shell with EPS liner

• Comfortable and secure on the head thanks to the refined internal shape

• M ET Safe-T Sport Fit System

• 360° Head belt for an individual fit

• Hand-washable comfort pads

• 17 Vents, Internal engineered air channelling system to improve ventilation and comfort

• Reflective rear decal to enhance visibility in low-light conditions

• Australian Certification

The Met Idolos has an RRP of $109 and is available from local bike stores or online.

TREK’S LATEST CHECKPOINT

GRAVEL BIKING IS BOOMING, WITH MANY RIDERS SEEING THE NUMEROUS BENEFITS OF A MORE VERSATILE STEED than the traditional roadie. As one of the world’s most prolific manufacturers, Trek’s gravel offering, the Checkpoint, has proven itself over the years as a standout model among amateurs and pros alike. Trek recently gave the Checkpoint model a major makeover, plus added a race-specific model to their gravel lineup, the Checkmate.

KEY FEATURES OF THE NEW CHECKPOINT INCLUDE -

• Optimised storage - Checkpoint SL Gen 3’s frame has more room to fit taller bottles with bags and offers more internal storage. Plus, it has mounts galore for top tube, frame and triangle bags; fork storage; and front and rear racks.

• Updated handling - Checkpoint SL Gen 3’s new Gravel Endurance geometry has a higher and shorter reach that’s more comfortable and capable for all-day gravel rides. Plus, riders get a GR Elite handlebar (on SL 5 and 6) or carbon GR Pro handlebar (on SL 7), which share a more comfortable drop shape and an increased flare of 6cm between hoods and drops for better control.

• Room for 50mm tyres - Checkpoint SL Gen 3 comes with 42mm tyres but can fit bigger gravel tyres way up to 50mm (width as measured).

• Compatible with dropper post and suspension fork - The new Checkpoint SL Gen 3 is dropper post compatible and adds suspension fork compatibility with up to 40mm of travel.

GROUND EFFECT CYCLING WEAR

NEW ZEALAND-BASED APPAREL COMPANY GROUND Effect are synonymous with cycling, the team at the brand live and breathe the sport and ride daily. Over the years, the company has built an enviable reputation by maintaining a focus on quality, tediously testing every item, and listening to its customers.

The crew here at Ride On rely on Ground Effect, particularly their cold & wet weather gear.

In this summer edition, they’re showcasing the Men’s Solaris and Women’s Flare long-sleeved tops. There’s nothing less sun-smart than a short-sleeved jersey in the warmer months; these practical jerseys offer solar protection for extended bike rides under the gap in the ozone.

Pricing-wise, the Checkpoint range starts at $2,699 for the aluminium framed ALR 5, right through to $13,999 for the top-specced SLR 9 AXS.

Checkpoint SL Gen 3 and Checkmate SLR are available at Trek retailers across Australia and online at trekbikes.com.

KEY POINTS

• Full arm and wrist coverage with extra long sleeves that overlap your gloves.

• Simple cowl collar.

Extra long sleeves plus an inbuilt sun-hood shield you from harmful UV rays, while the relaxed fit and lightweight UPF 50+ HyperActive fabric help keep the rider cool.

NORTHWAVE ROCKIT PLUS MTB SHOES

DESIGNED FOR OFF-ROAD RIDERS who crave versatility, respected shoe and apparel brand Northwave’s Rockit Plus delivers exceptional performance across all terrain - from rugged trails to gravel roads and everything in between. We’ve ridden this shoe on gravel trails north of Sydney and can vouch for their great looks, impressive performance and comfort on the bike. They feature a ‘Vibram Wolftrax’ clipless sole that offers a

comprehensive and reassuring grip in wet or dry conditions. The base of the shoes also feature prominent lugs to help with stability and grip on and off the bike.

The upper combines lightweight and ripstop-reinforced materials for extra durability. A lightweight EVA midsole enhances shock absorption and reduces the shoe’s overall weight for lasting comfort on longer rides.

One of the model’s key features is the SLW3 closure dial. A series of micro-adjustment options lets you fine-tune the fit with precision, while

• All-day neck protection with a 3-panel sun-hood that easily fits over or under your helmet.

• Hazard! Reflective label out back.

• Weight: 210 grams.

• Designed & made by Ground Effect in Aotearoa | New Zealand.

RRP - $119 NZD (approx A$106) Delivery to Australia is via tracked airmail and usually takes about a week. Order at www.groundeffect.co.nz or give them a call on 1800 145 333.

a step-by-step release offers quick adjustments. The model is suitable for a wide range of applications, from hard-core mountain biking to trail riding and extended bike-packing.

The shoes have an RRP of around $250 and are available via www.northwave.com.au

Duncan’s Story

ONE OF THE MOST VALUABLE PARTS OF A BICYCLE NETWORK membership is something you hope you’ll never need - insurance. But when things do go wrong, the organisation is right there with you. Every time you ride, you’re covered with medical support, income protection, and third-party insurance.

Here is Bicycle Network member Duncan’s story, a property damage and personal accident insurance claim.

Duncan was riding home after his regular loop around Kew Boulevard when a distracted driver rear-ended a vehicle that had slowed down to turn right. This triggered a multi-car collision that left Duncan with serious injuries and a destroyed bike.

We recently spoke with Duncan to find out more about the incident and subsequent outcome.

While riding home on a main road, between parked cars and flowing traffic, a driver coming from the other direction slowed to turn right. The driver in the car behind wasn’t paying attention and collided with the rear of the turning vehicle. In doing so, the vehicle was shunted across the road.

“The car in front of me had nowhere to go and collided head-on with the shunted car,” says Duncan. “I was travelling at 40km/h, and in a case of split-second timing, crashed into the side of the car in front of me as it spun around from the head-on collision.

“I was taken to Royal Melbourne Hospital with multiple serious injuries that resulted in a seven-day stay until I was cleared to go home.

“The team at Bicycle Network were essential in helping me understand the process, post-injury, with regards to claims for medical and equipment expenses. My medical expenses were covered by TAC, but I was left out of pocket for remediation therapy that was covered by Bicycle Network’s medical coverage. Dealing with their insurer was fantastic, in complete contrast to the TAC.

“Furthermore, I was fully supported in my efforts as a 3rd party claimant trying to recover equipment damages costs from the at-fault driver.

Duncan explained that there was a lengthy process that required the threat of legal action from Bicycle Network before the driver’s insurance company finally came forward to assess and ultimately pay for damages. Outcome:

$12,130 to cover the cost of a replacement bike

Total Benefits Paid: $1,279

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40 YEARS of the GREAT VIC Cycling, Community, and Spirit

For four decades, the Great Victorian Bike Ride has been an enduring celebration of cycling, camaraderie, and community spirit.

With more than 200,000 riders, millions of kilometres traversed, and memories that will last lifetimes, it has become a cornerstone of Australian cycling culture. Known affectionately as the ‘Great Vic,’ the nine-day rolling festival has brought together riders of all ages and abilities to explore Victoria’s breathtaking landscapes.

The 2024 event, beginning in Albury and winding through Victoria’s scenic regional countryside, marked a milestone - the 40th Great Vic. It also marked the end of an era, as Bicycle Network announced it would be the final ride in its four-decade format. Rising costs and logistical challenges have made the nine-day festival unsustainable, but the legacy of the Great Vic promises to live on in a new form with further details pending.

The Long Road To 2024

The story of the Great Vic began in 1984 as part of Victoria’s 150th-anniversary celebrations. Charlie Farren, the first female president of Bicycle Network, was instrumental in its creation.

“Victoria was going to celebrate its 150th anniversary, and we thought we needed a bike ride to mark the occasion,” Farren recalled. “We could never have done it without the volunteers, who numbered one for every five or six riders and gave us their hearts and souls.”

Farren herself embodied the adventurous spirit of the event from the very beginning.

“About ten of us decided to ride the first Great Vic on penny farthings,” she says with a laugh. “I’m delighted to see a similar number doing the same thing in 2024. Forty years is an incredible achievement.”

Among those riding a penny farthing at this year’s event was 79-year-old Phil McDonald, who participated in the inaugural ride. Phil’s enthusiasm for cycling remains as strong as ever.

“I did that very first one on my penny with six

mates,” he said. “They closed the Tullamarine Freeway for the bikes—2,500 riders came down it. It was marvellous, just incredible.”

Phil’s bike, a replica of his 150-yearold penny farthing, comes with its challenges.

“If I pull the brake—a pressure pad above the front wheel—I go straight over the front,” he explains. “Being a fixed wheel, I have to push back on the pedals to slow down. This is the bike I rode around Australia; I did 15,000 kilometres on it.”

Despite its quirks and dangers, Phil loves the simplicity of his machine.

“It’s just the fork, wheels, and backbone. They didn’t know about chains back then,” he continues. “These things were so dangerous in the 1880s—everyone was going over. Then, they figured out how to make a chain, and the safety cycle was born. But I still love my penny, and I’m thrilled to ride it at the Great Vic today.”

Why Riders Return

For many participants, the Great Vic is more than a ride—it’s a tradition, a challenge, and a celebration of cycling. Lisa Howard, Kim McGregor, John Watson and Ian Currie, four friends who joined this year’s ride, had been dreaming about participating for years.

“We’ve been wanting to do this ride for a very long time,” Lisa explains. “It’s a chance to ride through  Ò

Opposite: The logistics of the Great Vic are immense, a tent city is set up, packed down and moved around the state for more than a week.

Top: The 2024 Great Vic started in Albury with the event village and accomodation being set up on picturesque Gateway Island.

Above left: Riders at a highlyanticipated rest stop in the historical village of Yackandandah

Above right: A team of mechanics worked day and night to keep all 2500+ bikes running smoothly for the duration of the event.

stunning landscapes and get some good miles in the legs.

“From my perspective, being in the bike industry,” she continued, “it’s not just about the events but the organisation representing riders. All the work Bicycle Network do locally with councils, roads, user groups … It’s important to support them so that work can be done and they remain a voice.”

She said the ride was a wonderful opportunity to have a break from work plus “get a solid week of cycling in and kick start summer.”

Kim McGregor said the week was a lot about supporting their friend John.

“I’ve been trying to convince them to do this for 20 years,” Kim says. “This year, it was time. Plus, we wanted to encourage John to get back on his bike and have a goal to work toward.”

John admits preparing for the Great Vic was the push he needed.

“I’ve been pretty lazy the last few years,” he says. “Training for this ride got me back into cycling. For the last six weeks, I’ve been riding a couple hundred kilometres a week and have been enjoying it.”

The camaraderie of the Great Vic was a mutual highlight for all four friends.

“Everyone is so friendly,” says Kim. “Whether you’re in the dining area, the shower queue, or out on the ride, people are always happy to chat.”

Changing Trends

The Great Vic could be seen as somewhat of a microcosm of cycling trends, and, in November 2024, two stood out: the rise of e-bikes and the noticeable gap in participation among millennials. Lisa estimated that 20–30% of participants were on e-bikes.

“E-bikes are opening up this event to people who might not have been able to ride a week otherwise,” she told Ride On over lunch in Myrtleford . “It’s fantastic to

see so many people getting involved because of the opportunities e-bikes provide.”

John, however, noticed a glaring gap in demographics.

“There are lots of school kids, which is great to see, and older riders in their 50s, 60s, and 70s, but not many millennials,” he tells us. “Maybe shorter events for people with young kids would help. It’s worth thinking about.”

Looking Ahead

As Bicycle Network plans a new chapter for the Great Vic, CEO Alison McCormack reflected on the ride’s legacy and the challenges of continuing in its current form.

“Increasing costs and a challenging post-pandemic climate have made the nine-day format unsustainable,” she says. “Without government or major sponsor support, we’ve had to rethink how we can keep the spirit of the Great Vic alive.”

McCormack was quick to thank the many communities and individuals who have contributed over the years.

“Local communities have supported and welcomed us annually, and we know the Great Vic has had an unforgettable impact on regional tourism,” she says. “We offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has ever been a part of the Great Vic Bike Ride.”

Forty years of the Great Vic have left an indelible mark on Victorian and Australian cycling. It has its challenges, with five days of wet weather in 2023 and from 36 degrees to misty rain for much of the 2024 ride. But it’s an event that has brought thousands of people together, has always celebrated the many aspects of cycling, and showcased the beauty of Victoria’s regional landscapes. As the ride evolves and rolls with the times, long may its strong sense of community, spirit and camaraderie inspire riders for years to come.

For photos and highlights from this year’s event, visit www.rideonmagazine.com.au.

Left: Sunrise on Day 1 of the 40th annual ride, the final in it’s long running format.
Centre: Bicycle Network CEO Alison McCormack with long-time Great Vic supporter and penny farthing enthusiast Phil McDonald.
Top right: Numerous schools participated in the 40th Great Vic with many teenagers tackling the 9-day adventure.
Bottom right: Two sensational WARBY’s - ‘We Are Right By Your Side’ riders.

THE GREAT VIC'S THREE SISTERS

THREE SISTERS, THREE GENERATIONS of enthusiasts, and close to 50 Great Vic bike rides. That’s the story of Noelene, Leslie and Rhonda who Ride On spoke with at the start of the 2024 Great Vic at Albury in late November.

“This is my 20th,” Noelene told us. “They were in a row, but I was injured last year and missed that one, then came back for this one.”

“I’ve done 16,” said Leslie, “and I've done 11” added Rhonda.

Explaining how she rode here first Great Vic when her adult daughter was still in school, Noelene said the annual event had become part of life.

“I really just got addicted to the fact that it’s a week in another world,” she said. “The event takes you out of your normal life, puts everybody on the same level no matter where you’ve come from… you don’t have to think about a thing, not even where you’re riding. You just follow the arrows and then at each destination you stick your plate out and everything is there for you. Coming from running a household, and whatever you do in your normal day to day life, this is just wonderful.”

“I do prepare for it, I do some training. We don’t fly through it by any means, we just take our time and enjoy it. There’s no point getting to the next town at the crack of dawn. We pace the ride out and meet up at the rest stops if one is ahead or behind.

HIGHLIGHTS OVER THE YEARS

“Personally, I’ve bought my three daughters at different times, I’ve bought my mother along, my father-in-law, bought friends, got my sisters involved, and my husband … it’s just the whole thing,”

“I love the logistics of it, the whole thing and how it’s organised each year, it’s always a very well run event.”

“But it isn’t just the riding though,” Leslie added. “It’s a real accomplishment to deal with the elements. Last year we rode in the rain for five days. I’ve never set my tent up and pulled it down in the rain like that …it was just raining constantly. But you get through it to the finish and you’re really satisfied.

“Everyone is happy, no one whinges, they just get on with it. Even when it’s raining you just do what you have to do and get on with it. I love watching all the school kids how they amuse themselves without technology. They’re just having good old fun, I think that’s wonderful.

Closing comments? The sisters in unison said “keep it going!”

“I suppose we are a little bit curious about why this is the last Great Vic,” Noelene said. “Is it a shortage of volunteers, is it sponsorship, is it the numbers of riders or the costs of putting on events these days? I know they are asking for feedback. We’d love to see it keep going.”

Geoff with sisters Noelene, Leslie and Rhonda, keen Great Vic riders who have collectively ridden close to 50 events.

25 YEARS OF THE SANTOS TOUR DOWN UNDER

Australia’s biggest annual celebration of cycling is back!

The Santos Tour Down Under, lovingly referred to as the TDU, returns to Adelaide and regional South Australia from January 17 to 26, 2025, marking the milestone 25th anniversary of Australia’s own WorldTour race.

As one of the top international cycling events, the TDU always attracts an enormous amount of interest and tens of millions of global viewers. Being the first WorldTour get together of the year, the men’s and women’s races often provide an important insight into the riders to watch over the season ahead. Considered a far more accessible race than its European counterparts, fans can get a lot closer to the action, see their favourite riders in person at the Tour Village, and even

bump into famous pro riders at a China Town ice cream shop or beachside Glenelg!

More than just a bike race for the world’s best road cyclists, the TDU has grown into a full-blown festival of bikes, cycling and community events, drawing enthusiasts from around Australia and across the globe. This year promises to be the biggest yet, with nine days of elite men’s and women’s races, plus a packed schedule of activities for riders and fans of all ages and abilities.

Back To The Start

The Tour Down Under was first held in 1999 with Stuart O’Grady winning the race. Now, some 25 years later, the Aussie cycling legend heads up the event as Race Director.

And who better to plan and present the historic 25th-anniversary race, with ‘SOG’ saying the celebratory event features challenging climbs, new opportunities for fans to get closer to the action, and exciting new race elements.

“The men’s race will see them ride down the face of Willunga for the first time followed by two ascensions and a brand-new climb up Knotts Hill, Pound Road,” he said. “Smart team tactics will be crucial for success in this edition of the Santos Tour Down Under.”

A

Festival

Atmosphere in the Heart of Adelaide

At the heart of the TDU is the vibrant Tour Village in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga. Here, cycling fans can enjoy live race broadcasts on the big screen, daily happy hour at the bars, and the post-ride recovery zone. A dedicated TDU display celebrates the event’s history and impact, offering daily panel discussions with legends of the sport, including German powerhouse Andre Greipel, Tour de France winner Cadel Evans, and King of Willunga Richie Porte, who will return to Adelaide for the festivities. The event also sees the revival of the black-tie Legends’ Night dinner after a five-year hiatus, promising a memorable evening for cycling aficionados.

The ProVelo Super League

Adding to the excitement, the ProVelo Super League, a new domestic cycling competition, will make its debut during the TDU, with three thrilling days of racing in Adelaide. This initiative will bring Australia’s bike riding community even closer to the sport, offering local fans a chance to support domestic riders alongside the

world-class international competition. The former National Road Series struggled for many years and this will be a wonderful opportunity for fans to see and support the exciting new ProVelo Super League.

Up-Close Access to WorldTour Teams

Under the stunning Adelaide twilight, fans will have unprecedented access to the stars of the cycling world. The Team Presentation Night is always a highlight and, again, will offer supporters the chance to meet elite riders from the big teams. Visitors can walk through Team Zones,

Opposite: It’s Australia’s very own WorldTour race, with the world’s best male and female pro riders heading down under.

Left: The action kicks off with the Women’s Tour Down Under and completes with a bonus race for the ladies.

Below: Always a fan-friendly event, hundreds of thousands of spectators will be roadside.

watch mechanics in action, and get up close with their favourite riders.

The Largest Bike Expo in the Southern Hemisphere

The TDU Village will also host the largest bike expo in the Southern Hemisphere, featuring the latest in cycling technology and brand displays. It’s a paradise for gear enthusiasts, offering insights into the cutting-edge products and innovations shaping the cycling world. Ride On magazine will be there ogling over all the bike bling, and we hope to see you in the Village as well!  Ò

Top: Aussie cycling great Amanda Spratt is expected to race.

Bottom: The streets of Adelaide will come alive for the Schwalbe Classic.

A Host of CommunityFriendly Events

The Santos Tour Down Under isn’t just for pros—it’s a community celebration of all things bikes. From the Glenelg Ice Cream Festival to the Stirling Spin, Adelaide will buzz with activities across the city and surrounding regions. Highlights include:

The Adelaide Epic Ride: Amateur cyclists can tackle part of the official race course, following the efex Stage 3 route from Norwood to Uraidla. Covering iconic Adelaide Hills terrain, participants can choose from three distance options: 20km, 85km, or 120km. Then of course enjoy a cold drink and hearty meal in the Village afterwards.

RADL GRVL: Hosted by pro cyclist Tiffany Cromwell and F1 driver Valtteri Bottas, this gravel race series invites riders of all skill levels to test themselves on scenic and challenging gravel routes. Gravel is booming and this exciting aspect of the TDU will be huge in 2025.

Health Partners Family Ride: Join champion cyclist Anna Meares and her family for a lap on the Down Under Classic circuit. Kids and adults alike are welcome to ride together, making it a memorable day for the whole family.

Carpark Climb: For something fastpaced and electric, head to Wilson Parking in Adelaide’s East End, where riders will race up six levels of a carpark, cheered on by DJs, emcees, and fans. The competition is fierce, the atmosphere is buzzing, and the prizes are top-notch.

Vardon Avenue Street Party: To wrap up the final weekend of the TDU, Vardon Avenue in Adelaide’s East End will host a lively street party with live music and outdoor dining, creating a festive atmosphere to end the week in style.

AusCycling Club Rides and AusBike Skills for Kids

AusCycling will host daily rides from the Tour Village, with routes ranging from 25 to 90 kilometres. Perfect for both casual and seasoned cyclists, these rides offer a great way to explore Adelaide’s scenic routes while connecting with the local cycling community. For young riders, the AusBike Skills program offers fun and educational sessions to build essential cycling skills under the guidance of expert coaches.

The Return of a Mass Participation Ride

To celebrate its 25th year, the TDU brings back a much-loved tradition with the Adelaide Epic Ride. This mass-participation event invites recreational cyclists to experience the thrill of riding part of the official race course just hours before the WorldTour peloton. Starting in Norwood and winding through Balhannah, Hahndorf, and the Adelaide Hills, it’s a challenging yet rewarding ride for participants of all levels. Whether you’re a cycling fanatic,

a recreational rider, or simply looking to soak up Adelaide’s festive atmosphere, the 2025 Santos Tour Down Under promises an unforgettable experience. For more information on the event lineup and to secure your place in the Adelaide Epic Ride, visit tourdownunder.com. au and adelaideepic.org. Get ready to ride, celebrate, and be part of cycling history in South Australia!

The Racing

With all of the above on offer, the 2025 event will be jam-packed. But there’s a week and a half of other high-octane action that we haven’t even got to yet, yes … the racing.

Attracting the world’s top male and female professional riders, all-important WorldTour points are on offer at the Santos Tour Down Under, with all pro riders super keen to get season 2025 off to the best possible start.

In a flashback to the first Tour Down Under way back in 1999, the Down Under Classic returns on Saturday January 18. This will include heart-stopping men’s racing from 7pm.

2025 ROUTES 2025 ROUTES

Here’s a summary of the stages for the 2025 Santos Tour Down Under, along with key points about each day’s sprints, climbs, and finishes:

WOMEN’S RACE STAGES

Ziptrak Stage 1:

Brighton to Aldinga Beach

Date: Fri, 17 Jan, 2025

Distance: 101.9 km

The women’s race kicks off from the scenic Brighton coastline, heading south through the Fleurieu Peninsula. The stage includes sprints at Aldinga Beach and Yankalilla and a Category 1 climb at Heatherdale Hill. Riders will need endurance and strategy to tackle the varied landscapes, ending in a sprint finish at Aldinga Beach.

Highlights:

Sprints: Aldinga Beach and Yankalilla, with crucial sprint points on the line.

Climbs: Heatherdale Hill, a steep ascent offering Queen of the Mountain points.

Finish: Snapper Point’s beachside sprint, where crosswinds could add to the challenge.

Health Partners Stage 2: Unley to Willunga Hill

Date: Sat, 18 Jan, 2025

Distance: 93.1 km

Stage 2 ramps up with a challenging ride from Unley to Willunga Hill. Riders face the notorious Windy

Point ascent and then head through McLaren Vale wine country. Willunga Hill, tackled twice, will be the ultimate test, especially for climbers aiming to control the race.

Highlights:

Sprints: McLaren Flat and Willunga, both critical for time bonuses.

Climbs: Windy Point and two brutal ascents of Willunga Hill.

Finish: A summit finish atop Willunga Hill, where past races have been won or lost.

Hyundai Stage 3: Stirling to Stirling

Date: Sun, 19 Jan, 2025 Distance: 105.9 km

The final women’s stage features five-and-a-half laps around Stirling. This undulating course includes two Queen of the Mountain climbs, with sprints adding to the high-stakes nature of the stage. Just imagine being on the side of the road for that final lap - the thrilling atmosphere will be palpable! Who will emerge victorious? Join Ride On Magazine at the 2025 Women’s Tour Down Under to find out.

Each stage offers unique challenges, from intense mountain climbs to flat-out sprints. Key climbs like Norton Summit, Knott’s Hill, and the iconic Willunga Hill will test climbers, while fast finishes will keep sprinters engaged. Expect GC riders to make their moves on stages 3 and 5, with Stage 6 likely a showcase for the fastest legs in the peloton. And the emergence of the first World Tour men’s race winner of 2025!

But wait, there’s more!

The 2025 Santos Tour Down Under concludes with the thrilling encore of more women’s racing. The Schwalbe Women’s One-Day Classic will be held on Sunday 26 January on the same city route as Schwalbe Men’s Stage 6. This

MEN’S RACE STAGES

Ziptrak Stage 1: Prospect to Gumeracha

Date: Tue, 21 Jan 2025

Distance: 150.7 km

Overview: A stage favoring sprinters, with early climbs and multiple passes through Gumeracha.

Key Sprints:

• Williamstown (40.9 km)

• Birdwood (100.5 km)

Key Climbs:

• Gorge Road (2.2 km, avg. 5%, max 13.3%)

• Berry Hill at Cudlee Creek (1.4 km, avg. 6.9%) – climbed twice

Finish: A sprint finish in Gumeracha near the Big Rocking Horse.

Health Partners Stage 2: Tanunda to Tanunda

Date: Wed, 22 Jan 2025

Distance: 128.8 km

Overview: A Barossa Valley loop with multiple climbs on Menglers Hill, key for GC positioning.

Key Sprints:

• G reenock (31.2 km and ~50 km later)

Key Climbs:

• Menglers Hill (2.73 km, avg. 6.9%, max 12.2%) –climbed three times

Finish: A fast, straight sprint finish in Tanunda.

efex Stage 3: Norwood to Uraidla

Date: Thu, 23 Jan 2025

Distance: 147.5 km

Overview: A grueling mountain stage with category one climbs in the Adelaide Hills.

Key Sprints:

• Echunga (39.1 km)

• Uraidla (112.4 km)

Key Climbs:

• Norton Summit (7 km, avg. 4.3%, max 20%)

• Knott’s Hill (2.6 km, avg. 7.5%, max 22.2%) –climbed twice

Finish: A steep finish into Uraidla, set up by a left turn onto Greenhill Road.

Hahn Stage 4: Glenelg to Victor Harbor

Date: Fri, 24 Jan 2025

Distance: 157.2 km

Overview: Longest stage along the coast, ending with a sprint by the ocean in Victor Harbor.

Key Sprints:

• Snapper Point (34.4 km)

• Yankalilla (70.9 km)

Key Climbs:

• Parawa Hill (2.9 km, avg. 7%, max 16.7%)

• Nettle Hill (1.9 km, avg. 8.1%, max 15.6%)

Finish: Sprint finish in Victor Harbour along the Esplanade.

Australia Day special will give fans the exclusive opportunity to see the world’s best women’s and men’s riders racing over the same city streets as a huge finale to the 25th Tour Down Under.

Former professional rider and Olympian Annette Edmondson said she is proud to see the growth and continued development of the women’s Tour Down Under.

“We now have four days of world-class women’s racing to look forward to,” she said. “Four opportunities for elite riders to launch their seasons and four days for them to earn as much prize money as the men.”

And three-time race winner winner Amanda Spratt - who has ridden the event since the first Women’s TDU in 2016 - said the Women’s

THINK! Road Safety Stage 5: McLaren Vale to Willunga Hill

Date: Sat, 25 Jan 2025

Distance: 145.7 km

Overview: A decisive climbing stage with double ascents of Willunga Hill.

Key Sprints:

• Snapper Point (56.1 km and 100 km)

Key Climbs:

• Wickham Hill (3 km, avg. 6.9%, max 13.3%)

• Willunga Hill (3 km, avg. 7.4%, max 15.6%) –climbed twice

Finish: Top finish on Willunga Hill, a key GC battle point.

The Schwalbe Classic (Stage 6)

Adelaide to Adelaide

Date: Sun, 26 Jan 2025

Distance: Circuit finish

Overview: Flat city circuit to close the race, suited to sprinters.

Finish: A sprint finish on King William Road in Adelaide.

One-Day Classic was an exciting addition.

“I have seen enormous growth in this event from the very beginning,” Spratt said.

“(But) there’s always room for more, and this is something that the peloton has been asking for so, it’s fantastic to see that the Santos Tour Down Under has been able to deliver.

“It gives us another opportunity to secure valuable points early in the season and my hope is that it can be a catalyst for adding more stages to the women’s Santos Tour Down Under in the future as well.”

Join Ride On Magazine at the 2025 Santos Tour Down Under. Can’t be there? During the event you can follow our day-by-day coverage at www.rideonmagazine.com.au

TOP 10 COMMUTER TIPS

With thanks to Ground Effect

Improving cycling infrastructure in many cities and the wide range of e-bikes available is fuelling everincreasing numbers of urban cyclists - people commuting on two wheels rather than four. And what’s not to like about that?

Riding your bike around town or to and from work saves money, keeps you fit, negates congestion and parking hassles ... and is not only good but great for the planet. Plus it’s been clinically proven - OK, maybe not

1 MOST BIKES WILL DO

For most of us the best bike to ride is the one that’s already sitting in the garage. Slicks, mudguards and lights will transform most bikes into capable commuters, but to get started just ride your current bike.

If you’re contemplating a purchase, then an urbanspecific e-bike or cargo bike is well worth looking into, with more and more options available.

3

KEEPING IT CLEAN

A front mudguard stops spray from flying in your face and slows down the drenching of your shoes.

A rear mudguard stops road splatter from spraying up your back.

Old style guards that hug your tyres work best. MTB-style front and rear fenders are a simpler and perfectly reasonable second choice.

clinically but definitely proven - those who ride to work arrive in a better frame of mind, have more energy, and are far more focussed on the tasks ahead.

But commuting by bike comes with its challenges, and just a few simple pointers can help make a challenging situation a lot smoother and more enjoyable.

Our friends at New Zealand bike riding apparel brand Ground Effect have compiled a list of helpful tips for those keen to commute by bike in 2025.

2 RIDE THE RIGHT TYRES

Slicks or semi-slick tyres pumped up to around 60 psi offer reduced resistance on the tarmac.

Mid-volume, tyres of around a 40mm width, will help resist pinch flats when hitting curbs or pot-holes.

Kevlar belted, cityspecific tyres help defend against slow leaks from broken glass and other hidden dangers on the road. Confused about tyres? Ask the team at your local bike shop.

4

B E READY FOR RAIN

Keep a lightweight rain jacket and over pants or over shorts in your bag as an essential insurance policy against flash floods or chilling winds. And speaking of bag, side panniers, or a frame / handlebar / saddle bag is a worthwhile investment.

5

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

Wind chills you out - especially on an e-bike when you can easily hit your bike’s maximum speed.

In cold but dry conditions a softshell jacket or vest is a versatile solution that lets you transition effortlessly from bike to the office or cafe.

Cycle-specific baggy shorts or long pants provide comfort in the saddle and freedom of movement when pedalling.

They provide many of the benefits of lycra while avoiding the risk of public nuisance citation when stopping for a short black or emergency groceries.

6 SEE & BE SEEN

There’s an enormous range of quality bike lights available these days, from lights designed to purely help you see, or those that help you be seen.

Day time lighting is just as important as night time, we’d recommend a quality white light up front and high-intensity, multi-mode red light on the back.

7 HONE YOUR SKILLS

Practise defensive cycling. Even if you’re on the right side of the road code, you’re likely to end up worse off if you suffer a crash with a motorised vehicle.

Top tips include -

• Don’t hug the curb. About a metre into the traffic gets you into the flow so vehicles are encouraged to wait and overtake, rather than squeeze past.

• That distance also helps evade the dreaded car door being opened on you. Keep an eye on wing mirrors of parked cars - you can often spot a driver about to exit.

• Anticipate the ‘overtake-then-turnleft’ manoeuvre.

• Be predictable, but never boring. Erratic riding is unfair to motorists. Avoid excessive speed in congested zones.

8 I NVEST IN SECURITY

A lightweight ‘minimum’ security bike lock won’t weight you down but will slow down any opportunist scoring themselves your bike while you nip in for a pint or some last-minute groceries.

Other options range from built in locks (standard on some e-Bikes), wearable locks, and heavy-duty locking options that can be carried on the frame of your trusty commuter.

9 KNOW THY ROUTE

Establish a standard route to and from work each day - hopefully mostly on separated cycle paths, cycle lanes or lower-volume, lightertrafficked roads.

Identify any black spots and invoke appropriate defensive habits.

Lots of parked cars alongside the roadway? People spend more time sitting in stationary cars, particularly in the smartphone era. Look for heads in cars and remain ready for a door to open.

10 MAINTAIN YOUR RIDE

Regularly ridden commuter bikes rack up a surprising number of kilometres and often and often go a long time between services. It’s wise to allocate a day or time each week to check tyre pressures, the brakes are functional, and the chain is lubricated.

A quick check before each ride ensures safety and avoids unwelcome surprises on the way to or from work, errands or the shops. And an annual service at the local bike shop is always a good tip.

TOP 5 TASSIE BIKE RIDES Beardy’s

You may know him as Beardy McBeard, the infamous and instantly recognisable bearded photographer. Beardy, aka Marcus Enno, has gained a global reputation as one of the world’s leading specialist cycling photographers. He’s covered every major event, from Australia’s Tour Down Under through to each of the Grand Tours, including multiple Tour de France events, and has become synonymous with the sport.

Jet setting around the world to photograph the biggest bike races, sitting on the back of a ‘photo moto’ just metres ahead of the race leaders, mingling with the likes of Matthews, Pogacar, Voss, Van Der Poel and Van Vlueten, being flown to the most iconic locations to photographic the latest releases from the biggest brands in cycling … that pretty well sums up the life and times of Beardy McBeard over the past decade or so.

In more recent years, Beardy has added a far more grounded string to his bow and that’s working closely

with Leonard Greis of Apres Velo, the cycling tour and lifestyle brand.

As ride captain for the outfit’s Tasmanian trips, Beardy is particularly passionate about all things cycling in and around the Apple Isle. Leaving suburban Sydney some five years ago, he, his wife and their young family now call Hobart home. Not one to sit still for too long, if he’s not out on tour, there’s a fair chance Beardy will be darting around the southern capital on one of his bikes.

Ever envious of his inspiring Instagram updates featuring dream cycling both at home and abroad, we caught up with Beardy to get the lowdown on cycling Tassie.

What makes Tasmania so great for cycling?

‘I discovered the road less travelled after many summer holiday visits to my in-laws in Margate 20 minutes south of Hobart. In a time before the boom in gravel cycling, I was challenged and inspired by the rugged gravel roads that seemed to feature in most of the Tasmanian bike rides.

An initial observation was the amount of climbing on offer, the elevation of every route eclipsed even the lumpiest rides I was participating in back home in Sydney.

And of course, the way of life is one of the key attractions - everything is simpler and quieter, Hobart is a safe city, the air is cleaner and food is amazing. The quality of life is so much higher.

Alpine Cycling

Think proper alpine cycling, long, tough, challenging climbs up snow-capped peaks, and you’d typically conjure up either an expensive overseas trip or a road trip to Bright, Falls or the Snowy Mountains. But not here in Tassie! By far the most impressive feature about making the big move from Sydney to the Apple Isle was having an epic alpine climb in the heart of Hobart.

I was hooked, and my wife and I made the big move from Sydney to live in Hobart in 2019.

Over the last 5 years I have explored the island state and started to share my knowledge in the form of cycling tours with Apres Velo.

Beardy’s Top 5 Tassie Rides

Jacobs Ladder

Ben Lomond National Park 15.5km | 1000m

I still remember the first time I set eyes on this climb with the gravel switchbacks and towering Dolorite Cliffs, it’s prehistoric. I was mesmerised by its rugged beauty … I just had to ride it!

The climb itself starts at the Ben Lomond Base 30km from Launceston which is a hub for the ski field at the top. 15.5km at 6.3% is not for the faint-hearted! It’s also very seasonal I’d recommend Summer or Autumn to ride the climb as snow and freezing conditions are a regular occurrence in spring and winter.

The gravel gets very chunky at the top and a gravel bike makes the climb much more pleasant.

That said the first 2 times I climbed it on a road bike.

There is a lookout at the top that is worth the diversion as its the best spot to see back down the six iconic switchbacks and appreciate what you have just achieved.

Pipeline track Hobart 22km | 180m

If mountain climbing isn’t your thing try the pipeline track it’s a familyfriendly ride along the pipeline that was once the main water supply for Hobart.

The track is 11km long but as it’s an out-and-back, so you can turn around at any point. The best place to access the track is from Ferntree, just opposite the tavern.

There is a bus from Hobart to Ferntree with bike racks if you don’t fancy the ride up from the city.

The track is gravel but it’s very well maintained and can be ridden on any type of bike.

The highlights of the track are the overhanging fern trees, the historic convict sandstone work, and the impressive views back down the valley.

There is an option to visit Silver Falls a short but steep diversion its worth the effort and the water is cold and clear if you fancy a drink and rest at the top.

Channel Hwy

Hobart to Cygnet

90km | 1600m

Starting from Hobart, this route follows the Channel Highway southward through Taroona and Kingston hugging the coastline and offering stunning views of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and Bruny Island.

The ride passes through quaint towns like Kettering and Woodbridge before reaching Cygnet, well-known and highly regarded for its arts and café culture.

The terrain is rolling, with some short climbs. You can choose to return via the same route or explore alternative roads through the stunning Huon Valley.

Maria Island

35km | 500m

With no cars, gently undulating roads and picturesque coastal scenery, Maria Island is the perfect destination to explore by bike. The island is connected to Triabunna on Tasmania’s east coast by a ferry, with the option to either bring your

own bike or hire one online and pick it up on arrival.

From the former penal colony of Darlington, you can get up close to wombats, kangaroos and wallabies along the Reservoir Track or ride south to the magnificent Painted Cliffs, which are renowned for their incredible colours and swirling patterns.

Slightly longer and steeper is the Fossil Cliffs Circuit, which winds around the northern tip of the island with towering sea cliffs and incredible views of Bishop and Clerk Peak it’s a ride to remember.

kunanyi / Mount Wellington 21km | 1271m

If you are a Hobartian it’s known as ‘The Mountain’ and for very good reason … it’s always there, safe guarding the city and dominating the skyline.

No cycling trip to Tasmania is complete without riding up to Mt Wellington’s summit at 1271 metres from sea level it’s one impressive climb. And where else can you use the

hustle and bustle of a central business district as the warm-up for a significant climb? For cycling enthusiasts visiting the city, the climb begins almost as soon as you step out of your hotel, and the most pleasant way to climb is from the Cascade Brewery, a Tassie icon in its own right.

The first part of the climb to the turnoff at Pinnacle Road is the easiest so save some energy for the second half of the climb where the gradient increases and the road surface is rough.

At the summit, you might be rewarded with breathtaking views, but the temperature can be 10 or more degrees colder than the city and there are often high winds (read wind chill!).

Some days you’ll yourself perched in or above the clouds with visibility down to metres. Be sure to pack a jacket and long-fingered gloves. Take extra care on the descent—the road surface isn’t perfect, and after climbing over 1,250 meters, tired legs and cold hands can make the descent extra challenging.

If you do get stuck in bad weather you can take shelter at the springs which is 7km from the summit there is a cafe and a stone cabin that occasionally has an open fire going to defrost cold fingers and toes.

The bottom line … the view from the summit is well worth the effort - this is without a doubt one of Australia’s bucket list climbs.

If you like the sound of these rides you can get in touch with Apres Velo to find out more about Tasmanian cycling tours that take you to all the best locations. Specialising in fully supported bike riding trips, riders enjoy unique accommodation and the best culinary experiences along the way.

Apres Velo are offering Bicycle Network members generous discounts on their 2025 Tassie Tours. For full details see www.rideonmagazine.com.au & www.apresvelo.com

The GREATER SYDNEY BIKE TRAIL

Let’s play a little word association game; the first word is ‘Sydney’, and the second is ‘cycling’. Sorry to say, but there’s a fair chance your first thoughts included words like yikes, dangerous, risky, traffic … you get the drift.

Sydney doesn’t exactly have a glowing reputation as a cycling-centric city. The day-to-day reality is modern multilane highways through to old narrow lanes clogged with cars. ‘Peak hour’ typically stretches to 6 hours daily, and Saturdays are officially Sydney’s busiest traffic days. Make no mistake, Australia’s first city is a risky place to ride. Even former Tour de France winner Cadel Evans famously told Sydney Morning Herald journalist Garry Maddox that he finds the city an intimidating place to ride.

‘While the narrowness of the streets, volume of traffic, poor cycling infrastructure and distance from the CBD to good riding areas were factors, Evans said there was just too little respect on the roads.’ wrote Maddox.

Lane Cove

National Park, just 10km from the CBD, is certainly one of highlights of the 150 and 230km loops.

Riding over the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a ‘must do’ experience - the western side of the bridge is bike only, while the eastern side is purely for pedestrians.

But what if I told you that despite the maniacal motoring madness of Sydney, there are two standout multi-day bike ridesroutes that pass through some of the nation’s most iconic sites - rides of 150 and 230km on safe, quiet and car-free paths?

An example of some of the impressive infrastructure is the overhead walking and cycleway near Moore Park.

stop

The Greater Sydney Bike Trail is the brainchild of keen bike rider Garry Robinson. After 25 years off the bike, he went to New Zealand to ride rail trails. Returning home, and having thoroughly enjoyed the trip, he thought, ‘Why can’t we have this in Sydney?’.

Garry realised that Sydney does indeed feature a large number of bike paths, cycleways, and trails. The problem was that they’re here, there, and everywhere, not connected, typically not signposted, and tend to abruptly start and stop.

With extensive computer mapping and surveying experience, Garry plotted many of the better-known bike paths over an online map. It was a time-intensive and painstaking process, but working with various other riders and spending a lot of ‘research’ time out on the bike, it all started to come together.

“I initially saw some bike lanes in the form of green lines at Salt Pan Creek on Google Maps and started exploring,” he said.

“I used Street View to check if roads were different and safe for cycling. One of my skills is managing bulk GPS files—up to 700 at a time—and then using layers to trace potential routes online. I’d ride sections, then look for suitable railway

stations to get back home,” he told Ride On

“Once I’m onto something, I tend to really get into it,” he enthusiastically continued. “I’d often ride for three or four hours, then come home and edit for an hour or so, working on and refining the map. My trails cross other trails, so I figure out the best, most obvious routes.”

The result of this tedious and long-winded passion project is two large loops - the 150km and 230km - that are quickly gaining a reputation as the Harbour city’s ‘must ride’ routes.

“One of the factors I enjoy is discovering new areas on just about every ride,” he continued. “Just yesterday, I was riding past market gardens near the airport—most people don’t know there are market gardens so close to the city,” Garry said. “One thing, I want to encourage road riders not to be too concerned about going a little off-piste. Some sections can be tough on a road bike, but more people seem to be enjoying it.”

Getting Lost & Government Support

One negative of the loop is the fact it would be very difficult to ride without a GPS Computer loaded with a .gpx file. It’s not signposted, and there are a lot of left and right turns. There has been chatter online about potential local or state government support, the most helpful addition being signposts or

Sydney cycleways are constantly being upgraded, with this recently updated infrastructure alongside the airport.

spray-painted guidance around the route. Garry is obviously very keen on this and hopeful it may indeed happen.

“If the government supports and funds the route, ideally, the idea would grab a minister’s attention,” he told us. “Maybe a cyclist on one of the councils could help with a campaign to signpost a section. Signposting would be great, or even something so simple as adding a barcode - ‘Here’s a barcode, go ride around Sydney!’.

“It would certainly attract visitors, and already is … we’ve had riders from the Central Coast come down, stay in hotels and ride the route on ebikes over three days,” Garry told us.

“There’s even a ladies’ group that does the circuit once a month!”

Advice for Riders

“My best advice? Do your due diligence—study the route and get to know it,” he said. “Commit to it, learn the trains, and do smaller sections first unless you want to try the whole loop. Going in groups is great, and the Greater Sydney Facebook page is a good place to connect with other enthusiasts.”

Favourite Stops

“As for favourite stops, Canley Vale is fantastic for Vietnamese bánh mì and steamed buns,” he told us, almost salivating. “I usually stop at the bakery in Revesby, and there’s a new café at Wolli Creek that’s getting rave reviews. And, of course, the café at Centennial Park—around 7 a.m., it’s packed with bike riders and has such good energy.”

Riding The 150

Having recently completed the Greater Sydney 150, an abridged version of the big one - the 230km loop - I found the ride to be the best day I’ve ever had on a bike in Sydney.

Up there with many of Europe’s great bike rides, the Greater Sydney Bike Trail covers an enormous variety of vistas and terrain and shows enormous potential as a drawcard for locals, visitors and tourists alike.  Ò

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The Highlights

What struck me on the cool October morning was the surprising number of bike paths and cycleways scattered around the city. I started at Cammeray, a small suburb just five or so kilometres from the CBD, for an anticlockwise loop. With the Greater Sydney 150 route programmed into a Hammerhead Karoo 2 GPS, a summary of highlights include:

» Riding the dedicated bikeway south across the Harbour Bridge

» Enjoying the impressive and ever-increasing number of cycleways through the CBD

» Riding between the edge of the city and Centennial Park, particularly over a bike-friendly circular bridge between Surry Hills and Moore Park

» Circumnavigating Centennial Parklands

» Riding the new (and world-class) cycleways around Sydney Airport - and enjoying a ‘Wayne’s World’ moment as the incoming Qantas A380 flew 50m overhead

» Passing the Cook Memorial at Brighton le Sands

» Enjoying coffee and a bacon & egg roll at a surf club overlooking Botany Bay

» Riding the waterfront esplanade and across the Dolls Point Bridge

» The bike infrastructure and incredible views from the Woronora Bridge (a cycleway below the bridge deck!)

» C rossing the Georges River via the Alfords Point Road bridge

» The stunning vistas of the riverside bike paths of Bankstown and Georges Hall

» Riding through Mirrabeena Regional Park near Lansdowne

» Traveling through the truly surprising City Farm at Abbotsbury - sheep, goats, cows and all manner of other animals on the green and rolling hills just 40km from the city!

» Trundling along the Prospect Dam bike path.

» *And drumroll … riding the fascinating Prospect Canal Cycleway

» Rolling over the super smooth new bikeways alongside the Parramatta Light Rail

» G liding downhill through Lane Cove National Park

» A nd the final few challenging climbs and descents back to the start/finish point at Cammaray.

Above: Sheep and other farm animals just an hour’s ride west of the busy city? Absolutely!

Left: The paths near the Georges River were another highlight of the western side of the route.

Yes, that’s more than 15 standout highlights in a 150km ride, it truly was a memorable outing and really did open my eyes to Sydney cycling.

Sure, the 150 and 230km loops include some roadways, 22km to be precise. But these are quieter, less trafficked routes, mainly around the eastern suburbs. There were a few other short sections of road riding through the ride, but not once did I feel at all vulnerable.

Elevation-wise, we’re talking 1500m for the 150 and around 2000m in the big one, the 230 km loop. Clockwise or anti-clockwise? The choice is entirely yours, with many saying anticlockwise is the slightly easier direction. So far as rules for the ride go, Garry says riders should pass these five points -

» Cross the Harbour Bridge

» Ride around Centennial Park

» Travel under the Woronora bridge

» Pass Lizard Log or Sugarloaf Ridge in the Western Sydney Parklands.

» Go through Lane Cove National Park.

The Greater Sydney Bike Trail

Classic Version Distance: 222 km

Duration: at 15km/h: 15hr

Max. Elevation: 146m

Total climb: 1709m

Start: Circular Quay

Finish: Lady Macquaries Chair

Markers

Park 1

Which Bike?

Sydney 150 Distance: 151.1 km

Duration: at 15km/h: 10hr

Max. Elevation: 134m

Total climb: 1185m

Start: Circular Quay

Finish: Opera House

The majority of the trail can be done on almost any bike, though a gravel bike is the best choice for those who want added durability on the mixed terrain. While the M7 Cycleway is very smooth, sections of the bitumen path in Chipping Norton and the brick paths in Ramsgate are a bit bumpy, making a gravel steed with 35 to 38mm tyres a good all-round option.

Planning & Logistics

There are a few hotels along the trail, though accommodations are sparse between Cronulla and Liverpool and then again until Parramatta. To manage a multi-day trip, take advantage of Sydney’s train network, which allows bikes on board for free, with most stations now equipped with lifts. Key stations include Green Square, Wolli Creek, Sutherland, Revesby, Glenfield, Edmondson Park, Rooty Hill, Bella Vista, Westmead, Meadowbank, North Ryde, and Central.

Taking The One-Day Challenge

For those attempting the full loop in a single day, a road bike with at least 30mm tyres will do, but I’d say a gravel bike with, say, 35mm rubber, as mentioned

above, would be the safest bet. Pack spares such as a tube, a pump, two water bottles and some nutrition. Keen to start but not 100% sure you’ll complete the challenge? It’s wise to look over maps and identify potential train stations as suitable bail-out points. After all, you can also return and take up where you left off.

Garry’s Final Tip

“Don’t be daunted by the distance … you can always use the trains,” he told Ride On. “You could even catch the train out to a start point first, then ride back. If you leave from home, you’ll use a lot of headspace just getting to the route, so get out early and enjoy it.”

Follow this link for further details about the Greater Sydney Bike Trail.

GPX Routes: To ride the Greater Sydney 150, you can download the routes via: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47614296 and https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45402754

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Malabar Guildford Minchinbury Quakers

5 TOP TIPS FOR CONQUERING

THE PEAKS CHALLENGE FALLS CREEK

Peaks Challenge Falls Creek is one of Australia’s most iconic and demanding cycling events. Covering 235 kilometres with close to 4300 meters of elevation gain, this ride tests the limits of endurance, climbing ability, and mental fortitude. Preparation and strategy are key to success, whether you’re aiming to beat the mythical 10-hour mark or just looking to finish with a smile. Seven-times Peaks finisher and respected cycling coach Dr Stephen Lane offers five essential tips to help you conquer the 2025 Peaks Challenge.

BREAK THE COURSE INTO MANAGEABLE SECTIONS

The sheer length and elevation of Peaks Challenge can feel overwhelming, but breaking the course into smaller, more digestible sections can make it less daunting. I like to break the ride up into sections based on the feed zones.

Falls Creek to Harrietville (0-75 km):

You shouldn’t even really have to stop before this point. You get close to 30km of downhill going down Falls Creek then another 7km of down hill descending Tawonga! The first climb over Tawonga Gap is your chance to settle into your climbing pace and hopefully get in a group down the descent into the relatively flat roads leading to Harrietville. I can’t stress how important it is to be with a group on the flats. You can work together and save valuable energy.

Mount Hotham Climb to Dinner Plain (75-115 km):

The climb up Mount Hotham is long and hard no matter what level rider you are. The key is to pace yourself and keep moving forward. Yes, fatigue begins to set in,

LONG CLIMBS REQUIRE SPECIFIC TRAINING

Peaks Challenge isn’t just about long distances; it’s about climbing. Your training plan should include a mix of volume, intensity, and specificity.

Endurance Rides: Build your base fitness with long, steady rides. Aim for at least one ride per week that’s 4-6 hours to simulate event conditions. My rule is to build up to a 200km training ride and try to make sure these rides have at least 3000m of climbing. Time in the saddle should be close to 75% of the duration you expect to finish Peaks Challenge in.

Climbing Sessions: You just can’t replicate the demands of a hill on the flat or on a stationary trainer. It is about specific muscle recruitment and tension in the muscles. Simulate the event’s long climbs by doing intervals on the longest climb you have available. For

but you should have the confidence from your training rides that you can just keep turning the pedals. Once at Dinner Plain, you are halfway!

Dinner Plain to Back of Falls (115-200 km):

After Dinner Plain you get a good amount of free speed with some long fast descents. But this is the section that cracks many people. Your goal here is to make it to the Omeo rest stop. I can’t stress enough here that you need to be mentally strong to keep pushing on as it is here that the dark thoughts creep in and you may want to jump on a bus. This is not an option! Be strong and commit to the ride!

T he Final Climb to Falls Creek (200-235 km):

This is everyone’s worst fear. The steep long climb from WTF corner up to the famous can of Coke at Trap Yard Gap. This section requires all of your determination to just keep going forward. All those strength efforts in training, the attention to your nutrition strategy for the 200km prior, the relief that you did get compact cranks set for your bike. All this comes together to get you up the back of Falls. Don’t give up! Keep moving forward. Breathe and pedal!

example, train on a 20-minute climb as a sustained effort at a tempo pace (80-90% of your threshold). Complete as many repeats as your legs will allow. As the weeks progress you should notice you can perform more repeats without fatiguing.

Strength Work: Include low-cadence climbing intervals to build leg strength. I like to do this at the end of a long ride. I choose a steep hill of 8 to 12% to replicate the Back of Falls climb. You need to be confident you can get up this steep climb even when your legs (and body) are tired.

Continuous Riding: I see so many athletes during training have longer stops during their rides. Stopping time is wasted time! Plan ahead, carry the food you need and make stops minimal and short. This can be the make or break come event day. My lowest stopping time at Peaks Challenge is 3min! Beat that!

DIAL IN YOUR NUTRITION STRATEGY

A well-thought-out nutrition plan is essential and you need to practice it in training so it is just routine come event day.

Carbohydrate Intake: Aim to consume in the range 60-100 grams of carbohydrates per hour. The higher the power numbers you have to push to ride your sustainable pace the higher grams/hour you should aim for. I like sports gels as they are easy to consume and carry. I steer away from solid foods as it is harder to digest and more bulky to carry. Remember anything you carry in your pockets adds to the weight you have to drag up hill!

Hydration: Drink small amounts frequently, aiming for 500-750 ml per hour. I typically always carry one bottle of sports drink with carbohydrates and one bottle of water. When at a rest stop I always like to drink at least half a bottle of sports drink while there then top my bottle up again before leaving. It is a good way to stay ahead of your intake goals.

Train Your Gut: Practice eating during training rides to ensure your gut can handle the intake. I like to get my athletes to take a photo of what they take on a training ride and send it to me so I can critique it. I always judge the source, how much, as well as what they have left at the end of the ride. Your pockets should be empty when you get home!

ON-THE-DAY TACTICS

Even the best-prepared riders can struggle without smart tactics on the day. A thoughtful approach can make the difference between a strong finish and a long, painful day.

Start Steady: Peaks is a long day so start steady. Avoid starting in a wave that is too fast for you. In this case you will go too deep, get dropped while climbing and them be down on time when your appropriate group catches you.

Pace The Climbs: On long ascents like Tawonga and Mount Hotham you need to stick to your targets. Adrenaline is an amazing thing and it will feel easy, but trust your pacing and keep a lid on it. By the of back of Falls pacing is out the door and you just have to do what you can to get up it. No one will go faster here than they thought they could! But conserving as much energy for it will make a massive difference to your time up this final climb.

Work With Others: Take advantage of group dynamics on flatter sections. Sharing the workload with other riders in a group can save precious energy for the climbs. Know what wave leader group is suitable to your ability and try to stay with them. They all do a great job to set the right pace and make your ride a little easier.

Adapt to Conditions: Be ready to adjust your tactics depending on the weather. Windy conditions or extreme temperatures will make a massive difference to the difficulty of the route. Be mentally prepared for everything and adjust your expectations accordingly. Your primary goal is finishing. Your secondary goal is your target time.

OPTIMISE YOUR BIKE AND GEARING SETUP

Your bike and equipment play a crucial role in your performance and comfort. Proper preparation will ensure you can tackle the course’s steep gradients and long hours in the saddle.

Bike Fit: You need to be comfortable for the long rides. If you have any niggling problems, persisting injuries or specific limiters then see a bike fitter as early in your preparation as possible. Don’t change anything last minute!

Gearing: I always recommend using a compact crankset (50/34) and a wide-range cassette (e.g., 11-34T or 1136T) to ensure you have low enough gears for the steepest sections. I don’t care how strong you think you are. This makes all the difference!

Only Carry The Essentials: Come event morning it can be daunting when you stuff your pockets full of your nutrition and all the other things you think you ‘might’ need. Yes, you need spares etc but try and minimise anything you don’t ‘really need’. Remember you have the opportunity to use the valet bags at various rest stops so yo can top up with essentials along the route. On a 7% gradient for every 1kg extra you weigh you need to put out 5 extra Watts to go the same speed!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Peaks Challenge Falls Creek is as much a mental test as it is physical. Breaking the course into sections, training specifically for the demands of the ride, nailing your nutrition, and executing smart on-the-day tactics will put you in the best position to succeed. The training process is about improving your confidence in your ability week by week by exposing yourself to the demands of the route in an incremental way. Do the big rides in training, and the day itself will be easy! With preparation, perseverance, and a touch of grit, you’ll be crossing the finish line at Falls Creek with a sense of accomplishment and memories to last a lifetime. Ride smart, and enjoy the journey!

AUTHOR BIO: Dr Stephen Lane is a cycling coach and seven-time Peaks Challenge finisher. Stephen is an 8-hour wave leader and has helped hundreds of Peaks Challenge finishers complete the route in their target time through his training programs available through Bicycle Network or via one-on-one coaching through his company HPTek.com.au

SIR BRUCE SMALL: FROM MALVERN STAR TO MR GOLD COAST

QUEENSLAND-BASED JOURNALIST AND author Rachel Syers poured 8 years into penning one of Australian cycling’s most fascinating stories, the life and times of Sir Bruce Small.

This all-encompassing official biography lifts the curtain on the incredible life journey of the late Sir Bruce, the final work is the result of 100 interviews and includes an exclusive interview with Oppy’s son, the late Ian Opperman.

The book was launched at the MCC Library in Melbourne, in March 2024, and at the original Malvern Star store Bruce bought in 1920, located in Malvern, now a Readings bookstore.

This visually captivating book features over 260 stunning photographs, including neverbefore-seen memories from the private collections of Sir Bruce and his best friend, famous world champion cyclist ‘Oppy’, through to his flamboyant years as Mr Gold Coast promoting tourism with ‘bikini girl’ tours from Tasmania to Tokyo.

We are treated to a comprehensive history of how Malvern Star became the largest bicycle business in the southern hemisphere, and entertaining tales of the Gold Coast’s most vibrant decades of tourism, political turmoil and development.

With the author’s kind permission Ride On is pleased to present this exclusive extract of the riveting and wide-ranging book.

During the 38 years Bruce led the Malvern Star mass appeal, the array of cycles for both leisure and sport was extensive, from the Malvern Star Baby to the De Luxe Roadster marketed as ‘the pinnacle of perfection’, which sold for £16 in 1926 (equivalent to $1439 in 2022).

There were many models named after his famous champion as well. The Oppy Cyclo model called the Opperman Special in the mid 1930s, was designed for road riding and general sport and featured the Cyclo three-speed gear. There was also an Oppy Lightweight Track Model for more serious riders. A Tour de France model broke new ground with a light-weight frame, tubular tyres and wheels attached with wing nuts.

Oppy’s son Ian Opperman explained how the postrace model was a game-changer. “Bruce saw what the French were doing and after the Tour de France, he started tinkering with things and came up with the titanium frames that were so light and brought it back to a competitive edge,” said Ian.

In 1939 Bruce devised the star system of bicycles with the number of six-pointed stars sitting proudly on the head tube of each bike indicating different specifications. Models such as the Utility and the Roadster were the most common, coming in One Star and Two Star models. But it was the elite Five Star model everyone aspired to own. The Five Star’s launch in 1939 was significant. Bike racing history buffs such as author Rolf Lunsmann wrote about the model’s absolute quality on the track. “It remained their ‘top of the range’ racing model through to the 1960s, picking up World Championships, Olympic Gold Medals and Empire Games Gold Medals on the way,” Rolf was quoted as saying, recorded by the Canberra Bicycle Museum.

Dedicated Melbourne cycling collector for 30 years, Cliff Mitchell, says the Five Stars are among the most sought-after models. “A good Malvern Star Five Star bike which is top

of the line and better quality steel than the normal models can now sell for a minimum of $2000,” says Cliff. “As time goes by they are becoming more valuable.”

Cliff’s collection includes a Land’s End to John o’Groats board game with Oppy on the box, a 1930s trophy presented to Oppy from the WA goldfields and race programs such as the 1937 Malvern Star Australian Schoolboys Cycling Championship. “There are a lot of passionate collectors, especially in Victoria where Malvern Star was an icon, because Bruce really pushed the brand out there and made it the name it was,” says Cliff. “He was well ahead of his time with things like sponsorship and bringing international riders out here to ride on Malvern Stars too. Some items are very valuable and collectable – an Opperman trophy would be well into the thousands.”

Rare Malvern Star models are featured in museum displays from Australia to the US, and also, around Australia, retro and vintage Malvern Stars often surface at cycling gettogethers. The bikes are often analysed down to each rim and sprocket on internet forums such as the Malvern Star Appreciation Society, created in 2012 on Bicycle Network Australia.

There are many places on the internet for cycling fans to discuss their latest vintage Malvern Star purchases, compare serial

numbers, search for rare parts and show attractive decals. Cycle websites are also plastered with Malvern Stars of yesteryear, such as Europe’s Online Vintage Bicycle Museum ‘Oldbike’, Fixed Gear Australia, and the Australian Vintage Cycling website Aussievelos, which describes the Malvern Star Five Star as ‘one of the most iconic and collectable of Australian bikes/frames to own, whether for its history attachment or styling’.

Bicycle historians question just how far Malvern Star would have progressed internationally if not for the war threatening parts supplies, and taking into account that just before the war began, Bruce was preparing to launch into the US market. However, this never eventuated. In Australia it was only after the war that the full series of One, Two, Three, Four and Five Star bikes returned to stores, according to the Canberra Bicycle Museum.

Such was the Five Star’s popularity on home soil that customised Five Star bikes and frames were tailor-made in specialist Malvern Star workshops around the country. Each frame was made to the individual size of its purchaser and components were chosen according to personal preferences of the racing cyclist. By the end of the war, Bruce was selling four proprietary brands in his retail branches around the country – Malvern Star, Austral, Pacemaker and Preston Star.

Top left: A 1932 postcard celebrates Hubert ‘Oppy’ Opperman’s 1000 mile marathon, devised by his manager Bruce Small, right, who was one of two motorpacers for the record, along with Bob Finlay, left.
Top right: Hubert Opperman takes the lead near the end of the exhausting 1931 non-stop ParisBrest-Paris, followed by Bruce Small in the support vehicle.
Left: A wonderful historic image of ‘Oppy’, spreading the Malvern Star message to the world.

MYTHS & TRUTHS about WOMEN’S TRAINING AND MENOPAUSE

Once upon a time, I had unlimited energy and could train all day without getting fatigued.

Fast forward five years, and on the other side of 40, I was suddenly not so energetic anymore. I was tired all the time, and everything hurt. Every workout felt like a war against a resisting body, and I am training double the effort to achieve the same result as before.

On top of that, my body was no longer behaving as expected. I was either not getting my period or I was getting too much period. The pain worsened, and I was getting ‘fat’ no matter how much I trained.

I had hit perimenopause, the phase of a woman’s life before the final menopause stage. My body was transitioning and, at the same time resisting the change. Both

physically and mentally, it was affecting my training.

Talking about women’s menstrual in general is still considered an awkward topic in society, and only recently has there been more information on menopause and the time leading up to it. For athletes, it is often very difficult to find any reliable sources of truth regarding exactly what to expect and how they need to work with their bodies to maintain or improve their performance at this age.

Like most people today, I have a quick scan on social media and the internet for answers, and between influencers performing the “miracle” workout for perimenopause and self-professed women’s hormone experts claiming we needed to workout differently, the search just led me to more confusion.

So, I turned to Brisbane-based women’s health expert and coach Liz Nelson for advice. As a Masters athlete, Liz has first hand experience with experiencing the challenges of training during the menopausal transition.

How menopause affects women

“The symptoms of perimenopause you are experiencing are driven by fluctuations of oestrogen, which can be either too much or too little,” Liz said. She explained that every woman’s body reacts to this change in oestrogen levels differently, although common symptoms of perimenopause are hot flushes, thinning dry skin, muscle and joint aches, changes in libido, changes in menstrual bleeding, sleep disturbance and mood changes.

So what I am experiencing is essentially, normal. Luckily for me, most of my symptoms so far can be

Author Amy McPherson takes a break while cycling in Italy.

self-managed. Liz said that some women are not so lucky.

“It’s worth noting and acknowledging that the symptoms of perimenopause can be absolutely devastating to some women and grossly affect overall quality of life,” she continued. And because every woman will experience menopause differently, “it is difficult to sometimes pinpoint exactly how to address it in the sphere of performance and coaching”.

Instead of following the trends on social media, which can be either false or exaggerated, Liz recommends a visit to a doctor who specialises in this area and considers menopausal hormonal therapy if the symptoms are affecting daily life (not just for training).

There’s a lot of myth about menopausal hormonal therapy being harmful, but Liz clarified that while some women may not be able to receive hormone therapy due to underlying health conditions, it is in fact perfectly safe as long as you have consulted a qualified medical professional.

With effective symptom management combined with a clean

nutrition plan, there is no reason why any women can’t continue to exercise or train the way they have before.

“The onset of perimenopause is a time when risk factors for major disease start to change - accelerated bone loss, muscle loss, increase in incidence of cancers, cardiovascular issues and mood disorders make it a good time to start a consistent exercise program.” She said.

Do we need to train differently?

This is all good food for thought, but what does it mean for women who are training? Do we actually have to train differently like what some social media posts claim?

“From a pure physiology point of view, no. However, this is a simplistic answer to a complex question!” Liz answered.

Everyone knows that exercise is good for you. Both women and men need some form of exercise to maintain in good health. As for those who are following a training plan, they should continue following the plan, menopause or not.

“There is a profound

Keep moving! There’s evidence to suggest that well-planned nutrition and the continuation of training can offset fatigue and tiredness.

Liz busting the social media myths on menopause

“I am a ‘menopause coach’ and that they can “balance” your hormones”

There’s no such thing as menopause coach, so don’t even go there.

“This natural supplement mitigate your symptoms“ They don’t work.

“Here are special diets and special programs to help your symptoms” They won’t work.

“Menopausal hormonal therapy is harmful!”

In general, they are not.

Hormonal therapy has a protective effect against chronic disease including brain health (Alzheimer’s, dementia etc). It is important to speak to a qualified doctor about suitability (most woman can safely use it but certain people cannot).

“Don’t do endurance training because it raises your cortisol!”

A big myth. Cortisol fluctuates naturally, like all other hormones - we actually want it higher at certain points of the day, for example, mornings, to get us out of bed!

training effect across both sexes, no matter what your age or stage is. In other words, if you applied the same training plan to everyone, you would likely see improvements in exercise markers.”

So, if you were lifting weights and continue to lift according to plan, you’ll get stronger, grow muscle and lift heavier over time. If you were cycling and following a training plan, you’d get stronger and faster.

Although, Liz admits that one thing we do need more focus on, is strength training to be incorporated into the training plans.

“Strength training helps maintain muscle mass and bone density. We want to be doing epic things for as long as we can and prevention of osteoporosis and having strong muscles and bones allows this.”

But it’s not all physical

Having established that there isn’t a ‘women-specific training’ we need to do, there is a caveat to note.

“During the perimenopause transition, women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, muscle loss, cardiovascular risk factors and issues around mental health.”

Liz informed me that, alarmingly for women, the incidence of suicide rises sharply during the perimenopausal period, therefore, it’s important to support women during this time of transition not only physically, but psychologically.

Whether you are training with a coach, or simply just doing your daily exercise, Liz says the most important thing is that you are enjoying yourself and have fun. But those who want to maintain performance but struggling with the symptoms of menopause might want to consider having a coach by your side.

“All training works until it doesn’t. This is where having a coach can be really helpful. Coaching can be very helpful if symptoms are raging,” Liz said, “nice to have psychological support in your corner as you think you are going mad sometimes… that was my personal experience!”

So, get that bike out of the shed. Get outside, have fun with your training and go enjoy yourself.

Whether high-intensity training or simply enjoying some daily exercise, Liz says the most important thing is to enjoy yourself and have fun.

Liz’s advice for women training during the menopause phases

Incorporate strength and/or impact training to help maintain muscle mass and bone density

Know that it is ok to change things around when you experience symptoms or are feeling fatigued. There’s no reason to stop any training - but taking a holistic approach and understanding that it’s OK to change things based on symptoms is key. Seek professional advice on Menopausal Hormone Therapy. MHT combined with good nutrition and training can help with the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause as well as improve general wellbeing. Don’t stop moving! There’s some evidence to suggest that at this time of life women stop moving as much and this contributes to what seems like the kilos piling on. Weight gain can occur during this time - but it’s not a reason to give up or get down on yourself - You can always lose it when you are feeling more stable. Focus on eating well. Be mindful of fuelling your training properly with an emphasis on carbohydrates. Underfuelling becomes underperforming. Also, perimenopause symptoms will mask symptoms of RED-S (relative energy deficiency syndrome) so being mindful of nourishing, rather than punishing your body at this time is key.

Liz Nelson is an exercise scientist, pharmacist, cycling and triathlon coach based in Brisbane. www.liznelson.com.au

Fueling Your Ride

One of the countless positive aspects of cycling is the fact it’s free! But bike riding does come with many ongoing expenses other than the purchase price. One such outlay can be food and drinks along the way … stop at two or three cafes during a day out, or stock up on nutrition bars before a ride, and the dollars can really add up.

Now we’re not suggesting you skip on coffee stops while out on the bike, that would be a step too far. But so far as DIY snacks go, we do have two tasty recipes for you to consider before that next big day out.

Homemade Energy Bars (Date and Nut)

These bars are perfect for bike riders of all levels, from weekend warriors to top-level professionals. They are rich in carbohydrates for quick energy and packed with healthy fats for sustained fuel.

Ingredients:

1 cup pitted dates

1 cup raw almonds (or any preferred nut)

1/2 cup rolled oats

2 tbsp chia seeds

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp salt

Optional: 1/4 cup dark chocolate or dried fruit to taste

Trail Mix Energy Clusters

These are a simple no-bake snack that provide a mix of quick carbs, protein, and loads of sustaining energy.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup of mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts are great!)

1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins

1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds

2 to 3 tablespoons of shredded coconut

2 tbsp almond butter (or peanut butter if you prefer)

2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Pro Tip: For the above recipes you can vary the ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you find in the pantry. It pays to experiment!

Instructions:

1. B lend dates in a food processor until a sticky paste forms.

2. Add almonds and oats; pulse until crumbly.

3. Add chia seeds, honey, vanilla, and salt; process until the mixture clumps together.

4. Stir in chocolate or dried fruit if using.

5. Line a small baking pan with greaseproof paper and press the mixture evenly into the tray.

6. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm, then slice into suitable sized snack bars.

7. Wrap individually in wax paper or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

8. Eat, enjoy and pedal on!

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the oats, nuts, dried fruit, seeds, and coconut.

2. In a microwave-safe dish, heat almond butter and honey for 15–20 seconds, then stir in the vanilla.

3. Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until evenly coated.

4. Scoop out small portions (about 1–2 tbsp) and press tightly into balls or clusters.

5. Refrigerate for around 30 minutes to set.

6. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for future rides.

Got a bike-based recipe to share? Email through your tips to

2025 CERVELO ASPERO

LOCATED AROUND 3 HOURS from Sydney and Canberra, Point Perpendicular is about as remote as you can get so far as coastal wilderness within close proximity to major centres goes.

One of the most rugged and unique landscapes on Australia’s east coast, the point features towering 90-metre cliffs - the highest coastal cliffs in New South Wales. The cliff tops offer sweeping views from the east to the south over the Tasman Sea, and southwest to the northwest over the Jervis Bay Marine Park.

To stand under the historic 1899 Point Perpendicular Lighthouse, and scan the enormous horizon for whales, schools of fish, dolphins,

seals and rich birdlife is an inspiring and truly memorable experience.

Making Point Perpendicular all the more alluring is the fact that access is strictly restricted. As part of the Army’s Beecroft Weapon range, this 4200 hectares of pristine coastal wilderness is under the administration of the Australian Defence Force. A strict permit system is in place, with the gates typically open from noon on Fridays through to Sunday afternoon.

So, it was around 1150am on a recent Friday that I was sitting in the campervan, patiently waiting behind a boom gate, and watching three soldiers set up traffic control, go over paperwork and prepare to open the ADF land to weekend campers.

In the back of the van was everything required for a weekend of exploration and adventure, including the centrepiece of the trip, the latest model Aspero from Cervelo.

Ahead of the boom gate was the

SPECIFICATIONS

2025 Cervelo Aspero

HANDLEBAR Cervelo Carbon

GROUPSET SRAM Rival AXS 12sp

WHEELS Reserve 40/44mm

TYRES WTB Vulpine 40mm

SADDLE Prologo Dimension

WEIGHT 8.7kg

PRICE $8000

RIDE ON TIP

Other spec’d Aspero’s with the same frame are priced from $5,500 - it pays to search online or phone your LBS for the best deal.

outdoor playground of the Beecroft Peninsula with its 40 or so kilometres of gravel roads impressive bush camping, stunning wildlife and some of Australia’s best land-based fishing.

Quickly setting up camp at Honeymoon Bay, a small and dreamy, sheltered inlet on the western side of the Peninsula, it was time to ride. The roads here could be

classified as light gravel with a fine, crusher dust surface that lends itself to fast, aggressive riding for some or simply smooth and safe cycling for others.

While the Peninsula doesn’t feature a huge amount of overall kilometres, it does boast memorable and truly unique riding opportunities. Not a place for narrower tyres or road bikes, the new Aspero - with its factory 40mm rubber - was at home on the bush tracks usually reserved for tanks, Light Armoured Vehicles, Bushmasters and G-Wagons.

Although predominately flattish country, the Aspero made light work of the gentle climb out of Honeymoon Bay. From there, it was a ride back to Lighthouse Road, the 10km main track that dissects the peninsula. Getting a feel for the slick gravel bike, I took it along the various accessible side roads and trails of the peninsula and had an absolute blast with this adventure-inspiring bike.

‘Haul Ass, Not Cargo’ is how Cervelo summarise the Aspero. They have purposely designed it as a fast, point-to-point, single-day adventure platform. Rather than being fitted with numerous mounting points for a third water bottle, or mudguards, or panniers, or swag carriers on the forks, this is a day ride & back-tobase bike.

It was past 4 pm, the warm sun was getting low, there was a gentle tailwind, and I was charging along Long Beach N Road. Turning right back onto Lighthouse Road, there were sections of corrugations and occasional dust holes mixed in with the long, smooth and fast gravel sectors.

The Aspero hummed along sweetly, the 40mm WTB Vulpine tyres and 44mm Reserve carbon wheels making the Aspero feel a lot like its road/endurance cousin, the Caledonia.

The frameset and build features a lot of subtle inclusions

Above:
Point Perpendicular from the air, a key feature is the 90 metre coastal cliffs.
Below:
The Aspero at the Beecroft Weapons Range near Jervis Bay.

Far right: The Beecroft Peninsula roads are smooth gravel but there can be corrugations

Below: Wildlife literally abounds at Honeymoon Bay, it’s a stunning camping location.

that collectively create overall efficiency. Concealed cabling up front, a smooth, sculptured and very ‘Cervelo’ steerer, a chunky, oversized and built-for-business bottom bracket, racy dropped rear stays, and the overall fast, slanted and compact geometry.

For what’s effectively a mid-level offering, the bike features some impressive inclusions such as Cervelo / Reserve’s ‘Fillmore’ valves - high flow and low clog aluminium valves that simplify tubeless inflation. There are also the briefly aforementioned Reserve 40mm (front) 44mm (rear) carbon hoops that weigh in at 1500gr. These wheels feature topquality ZIPP hubs, have an internal width of 25mm, and externally measure 33mm (up front) and 31mm on the rear.

It’s a well-known fact that the easiest way to improve performance is to upgrade a wheelset. Forget about needing to upgrade these Reserves, they are outstanding wheels and one of the key features of the model - they spin exceptionally well, are fast off the mark, incredibly comfortable, and hold their speed, particularly on choppy and changing gravel.

Groupset-wise, the test bike featured SRAM’s electronic Rival eTap AXS. This is SRAM’s equivalent to Shimano’s 105, but a more gravelspecific groupo in the 1x setup. Gear changes and braking were

exceptionally smooth, and overall it paired perfectly well with the Aspero. One negative with Rival is its weight, coming in around 300gr more than SRAM’s mid-level Force. A bonus is its price point, helping keep the overall cost to a minimum. Trundling toward the Point Perpendicular lighthouse, the Aspero felt like the perfect partner for that late afternoon remote ride. We made the most of the gentle lefts and rights, short climbs and cruisy descents and only came across a

couple of cars. Stopping at the lighthouse, we lapped up the awe-inspiring views, spotted distant whales, and felt the first few puffs of what was soon to be a 50knot southerly buster. Turning around for the 10km ride back to the Honeymoon Bay campground, that final Friday afternoon blast was one of the most memorable of 2024. Smooth gravel, the stunning setting sun, a building tailwind and a 20-minute rocketship ride back to camp.

Right:
A quiet night under a million stars during a cycling / camping trip to the Beecroft Peninsula.

RIBBLE GRAVEL TI

THERE’S A CYCLING ADAGE THAT POPS UP FROM time to time, probably not so much for those under the age of 40 or so, but certainly for those over the big 4-0. It relates to a certain frame material other than aluminium, carbon or steel, with many enlightened enthusiasts opining that it’s only a matter of time before you’ll buy your first titanium-framed bike.

‘After that,’ they tend to agree, ‘there’s no going back’.

My cycling journey began with a dragster, then BMX, then steel road bikes, then alloy, and, of course, carbon over the past decade or so. But I’d never explored the titanium world, and despite several friends speaking of their Ti bikes with borderline religious fervour, I managed to get to the big 5-0 without riding one.

This changed, somewhat by chance, while on a trip to Europe. Meeting with the marketing manager of Ribble Cycles in the UK, the plan was to choose one of their many models to review during a London to Frankfurt bike-packing trip. The destination was Eurobike, the world’s biggest bicycle industry trade show, and what better way to get there than ride?

I had my eye on one of their slick and shiny carbon

offerings - the Gravel SL Pro in a stunning burnt orange finish. The lovely marketing manager had other ideas, ‘We’d really like you to ride the titanium version, the Gravel Ti’, she said over a tasty lunch in a nearby cafe. I couldn’t really argue, and back at the showroom, and looking closer at the shiny titanium steed, couldn’t help but start to get excited about my first ride - a 2000km bike-packing trip at that - aboard a titanium bike.

I’ll never forget that first ride of around 40km on that brand-new and unloaded bike. The route from Bluewater to Bromley in Kent included main roads, bike paths, parks, dirt trails and back streets. There was a tough climb, then a lovely long descent, and the buttery smooth feel of the frame shone through within the first few miles.

That night’s frantic mission was to prepare the bike with around 8kg of bike-packing gear, mount a GPS / computer, fit the lights, double-check all hex bolts and attachments, and be ready to roll by 0800 the next morning.

The 100km journey from London to Newhaven was a dream ride, with smooth roads, blue skies, picturesque British landscapes, peaceful green lanes, quiet country roads, charming pubs, lots of ‘sorries’ and polite greetings from locals. It was all so very British.

Reaching the Newhaven ferry for the Channel crossing, I soon found myself in the warm afternoon sun, on the top deck, with a cold pint. Reflecting on an exceptional start to

the trip, it was around a three-hour trip to France and we’d be there by 8pm.

The French border guard seemed impressed by the shiny titanium bike, fully loaded bike-packing bags, and my Australian passport. “Where to?” he asked in Frenglish. “Paris, then Frankfurt, and back to London,” I answered. He and his colleague looked like they might grab their own bikes to join the adventure, giving me a cheerful wave as I continued on.

Next morning it was coffee & croissants prior to getting onto the Avenue Verte - the official cycling route from London to Paris. The Ribble titanium frame hit its stride, cruising at a steady 25-30 km/h and gliding over every bump. The bike just wanted to keep going. 100+ kilometre days became routine and consisted of brisk starts, coffee stops, exploring quaint towns and museums and sampling local beers along the way.

After a week of riding, not one element of the bike— its fittings, geometry, or setup—felt uncomfortable. In fact, by the time I reached Frankfurt, I realised I felt more comfortable on the Ribble Gravel Ti than off it.

What makes the Gravel Ti stand out from other titanium bikes? It’s all in the design: dropped seat stays, relaxed endurance geometry, a longer wheelbase, and Ribble’s carbon front fork. The company’s flared riser handlebars complete the geometry, offering all-day rider comfort while also having plenty of space for bar bags.

This all-day comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing

Opposite: The Gravel Ti has enjoyed its fair share of water crossings. Being titanium, it’s the perfect frame material for those living close to salt air.

Left: A quick stop on Day 1 of the ride from Kent to the ferry port of Newhaven.

Below: The French countryside provides no end of postcard images.

Bottom: Into Germany and a side tour to historic Meisenheim was certainly one of the trip highlights.

aerodynamics or style. During nearly 2000km of riding, the bike handled long, winding European descents beautifully. With the weight of the bags, dropping into the handlebars turned downhill stretches into absolute highlights, with the bike carving through gentle curves like a whisk through the cream.

On the 32mm Continental 5000 tyres, it was a smooth, quiet, and incredibly comfortable ride. A highlyrated long-distance tyre, there was one puncture late in the trip. For road use, these are an impressive tyre. That said, I’ve now switched to Schwalbe G-One in 35mm for their all-round efficiency and characteristics on both road and gravel.

With the dream trip drawing to an end, a major issue arose. I was developing a close bond with the bike, the more I rode it, the less I wanted to give it back.

Phoning Ribble, I explained the awkward predicament and, after some negotiations, had the review extended by a year! Looking back at that time with the Gravel Ti, we’ve had some incredible rides and adventures together, and she has been one of the most

rewarding bikes I’ve ever ridden.

From Europe to South East Asia, and the Ribble Gravel Ti alongside a roadside coconut stall on the rural outskirts of Bangkok.

Having now travelled through the UK, France, Germany, Cambodia, Thailand and Australia, she has proven herself, time and again, as an incredibly versatile bike. From crazy peak hour rides across Bangkok to those leafy Kentish green lanes, the incredible new bike lanes in Germany, paths along the Seine in Paris, being lost in Phnom Penh airport, to all manner of adventures in Queensland, NSW, Victoria and the ACT … this bike has proven itself time and again, and one I’ve grown incredibly fond of.

Ribble offer three Gravel Ti models, with the entry-level Sport model fitted with SRAM Apex 12 speed and priced at $4400. The Enthusiast model features SRAM Rival XPLR AXS 1x12-Speed and the impressive Hope RX24 alloy wheels - this is currently listed at $7070. The top model, the GRAVEL TI - PRO, includes a Mavic Cosmic S 42 carbon wheelset and is priced at $8970. Based in the UK, Ribble hand builds bikes as they are ordered and ship bikes globally with the latest freight rates available on their website. More at www.ribblecycles.co.uk

TREK ‘CARBACK’ LIGHT/RADAR COMBO

It’s a critically important component of aeronautical and shipping navigation, military operations, space exploration, and day-to-day weather forecasting. And now radar technology is being put to good use on the back of bikes as well.

Trek’s ‘CarBack,’ is a radar and rear light combination designed to improve rider awareness of approaching vehicles. Along with a wide-ranging internal radar system, it features an impressive, multi-mode, LED rear light suitable for use as both a night and daytime running light.

First, to the key feature, the CarBack’s internal radar detects vehicles up to 240m away, while its rear light is stated to be visible from up to 2km on the brightest 90-lumen setting.

Having extensively tested the unit in numerous urban and rural settings with various GPS / computer devices, I’ve found the radar to seamlessly integrate with Hammerhead, Wahoo and Garmin devices, plus no doubt many others as well.

Upon powering up the radar activates quickly, beeps to indicate a connection, and shows up on either the far

left or far right of the bike computer screen. Different GPS / computers offer a slightly different display - some more animated, others a little blocky. But all follow the simple premise of a visual indicator showing the relative distance of an approaching vehicle or group of cars. And even other bike riders.

The conclusion after several months of riding the unit? It’s surprisingly accurate, offers a reassuring level of advanced notice, and seems to work around gentle bends and over slight undulations.

One of the CarBack’s more impressive technical features is dual-axis detection; it projects radar both rearward and sideways for broader detection with Trek saying this feature is key to its performance on those wider roads and gentler curves.

To the unit itself, the CarBack measures 68mm (vertically) and is 50mm wide, it is slightly larger than expected (and some of the competition), but fits neatly on the seat post. A secure, rubberised mount is included, and the unit locks into Trek’s ‘Blendr’ system with a sideways slide.

Operation is managed via a single push button on top. Switching the unit on, toggling between three modes, and powering off is simple and intuitive - all performed through that single rubber-covered (and IPX7 waterproof-rated) switch.

Everything has an app these days, and the Trek CarBack is no exception. If you don’t have a GPS computer or would prefer to use the CarBack with a phone, the app provides similar visual alerts of approaching vehicles via the phone screen and offers audio notifications.

The unit charges via USB-C and reaches a full charge in around two hours. With radar active and a light mode selected, we’ve ridden it for up to seven hours between top up.

After 6 or so months of regular use, I’ve come to rely very heavily on riding with radar. The CarBack certainly offers a degree of comfort, peace of mind, and more situational awareness. Another significant bonus, once you gain trust in the unit, is less headturning and more focus on the road ahead.

Summing up, the CarBack is user-friendly, rugged assembled, highly effective and permanently attached to the back of my bike.

RRP: $299

More at www.trekbike.com

EXPOSURE TRACER REAR LIGHT

Made in England, Exposure lights stand out from the crowded bike light space due to their sturdy construction and ‘made to last’ attributes. Bike lights are predominantly plastic these days, and there’s an astonishing number of options available. We have a lineup of front and rear lights here on the Ride On test bench, it’s fair to say there’s everything from the smaller and newer manufacturers right through to options from brands that have been making lights for twenty years or more.

The two Exposure lights we have the Trace (front) and TraceR (rear) lights stand out due to their anodised aluminium finish, level of weather sealing, quality of the LED lens, sturdiness of the mounting system and security of the rubber straps. Today were are focusing on the TraceR (rear light), with the white front light to be featured in a future review.

We’ve been riding the Mk2 versions of the lights. However, Exposure now offer the latest Mk 3 versions. The main point of difference with this is the inclusion of a more relevant USB-C charging connector.

In hand, the first you’ll notice with these lights is the build quality, feel, overall design and attention to detail. Every aspect of the light seems to have been acutely studied, honed, tweaked and perfected.

Exposure lights a more substantial initial investment, yes they cost more than a lot of lights on the market. But these are the kind of lights you buy once and rely on for years.

Meeting up with the Exposure team at Eurobike, the world’s biggest annual cycling industry trade show, it was fascinating to hear more about the brand and just how passionate they are about bike lights and British manufacturing. Other than crafting a wide range of lights, some of their work is in service and maintenance - long-time users sending lights in for a battery, lens, seal, mount and general check-up. This is virtually unheard of in this increasingly throw-away society.

Unrivalled Build Quality

Holding the light in the hand, the aluminium casing doesn’t just look tough—it is tough. Compact and robust, the TraceR feels like it has been engineered for aircraft or marine use. The sturdy plastic bracket is equally dependable, with the light clicking into place firmly and reassuringly. A quick look on the Exposure website, and you’ll read reviews owners using it for more than a decade, and the TraceR feels destined to continue this tradition of longevity.

Performance and Beam Quality

The single LED, paired with a precision lens, punches above its weight, making the most of its claimed 110 for the front and 90 lumens for the rear. While this output may seem modest compared to some rivals, the clever lens design ensures that light is effectively distributed, offering impressive visibility.

The flash sequence is another point of difference. Based on the European flash code.

Exposure specifically use a flash pattern that mimics that emitted by emergency vehicles.

Exposure claims a 180-degree beam with up to 240 degrees of general visibility, and real-world use backs this up. The TraceR delivers intense, attention-grabbing rearward illumination without being blinding, while also providing above-average side visibility— a crucial safety feature.

Battery Life and Modes

In high-output mode, you’ll get three hours of continuous use, while medium and low modes extend this to six and 12 hours, respectively. Switch to a flashing mode, and those times double, giving you up to 24 hours of use on a single charge.

Mounting System

If there’s one area where the TraceR veers from sleek to utilitarian, it’s the mounting bracket. The design is industrial and 100% effective. Easy to fit and adjust, the bracket is rock-solid, holding the light securely even over rough terrain.

Ride On Verdict

Exposure TraceR DayBright isn’t just a rear light; it’s a long-term companion for serious riders. Built to last, it offers a combination of toughness, thoughtful design, and solid performance. While it may not be the absolute brightest light out there, it offers exceptional durability, ease of use, and dependable visibility making it one of the best on the market.

The Exposure TraceR + Trace lights can be purchased separately or as a combo for around $220. More at www.bikebox.com.au

ERGON DIY BIKE FITTING BOX

Getting the right bike fit is essential for both comfort and performance, and it’s often cited as the single most important adjustment you can make for an enjoyable, efficient and pain-free ride.

For those living far from professional bike fitters or major cities, this can be challenging. Today we are testing out what is touted as a solution in a box - Ergon Bike Ergonomics Fitting kit.

Designed for comfort, injury prevention, and improved power transfer, first impressions are a well-thought-out kit. Packaged with simple, step-by-step instructions and precision tools, the kit enables riders to align their bike’s fit to their own body in just seven steps.

Lift the lid, and inside are ten items including elaborate instructions (in various languages) plus tools including a spirit level, measuring tape, plumb bob, and custom measuring templates.

The fitting box was developed by Dr. Kim Tofaute, a leading expert in bike ergonomics. With over 25 years in cycling and a doctorate in sports ergonomics, Dr. Tofaute has a background in bike fit innovations and high-MTB racing as well.

Back to the kit, and there are close to 30 pages of detailed but easy-to-follow instructions in the English section of the manual.

Starting with all-important saddle height - a measurement well worth learning by heart - the handbook walks you through each of the essential bike fitting steps. These include the second most

critical adjustment, saddle tilt, and clearly explains not just why the angle is important but the cause and effect of various adjustments.

Horizontal saddle position is next, an important millimetre-specific adjustment for efficient power transfer.

Handlebar spacing in relation to saddle position follows, and while this all may sound technical and complicated, it’s clearly and concisely detailed and explained in the guide.

The guide continues from handlebar height through to cockpit adjustment, all-important shoe and cleat position - it’s no use having your bike set up properly if your cleats are out of whack!

Along with the four measuring templates, the kit includes marker stickers for temporary placement on components while you’re making final adjustments and tensioning the hex bolts.

The instruction booklet concludes with a size chart - a page to record each of the numbers you’ve measured for the perfect fit. A reference guide for saddle height, horizontal saddle position, handlebar height, ideal stem length, handlebar angle, brake level angle… the list goes on.

Ride On found the instructions to be simple to follow, clear and concise. Overall, it was a fun and interesting experience to go through. It took around 40 minutes to complete the process and the result, we’re happy to say, is a better-feeling bike. The overall feel of the bike - and particularly the shoe / cleat / pedal connection and angles - felt far more comfortable during the first test ride.

For those with less time, the kit includes a quick guide. Our tip - go long, it was an enjoyable, beneficial and interesting experience. Plus a good opportunity to check and tension all hex screws while giving the bike a good going over.

WHAT’S INSIDE THE ERGON BIKE ERGONOMICS FITTING BOX?

• A detailed instruction manual

• M ultiple measurement templates to fit different bike types

• S pirit level for saddle alignment

• Plumb line for accurate vertical positioning

• M easuring tape for precise adjustments

• M arker stickers for easy transfer of measurements

The Ergon Fitting Box is available in three versions to suit different riding styles - Touring, Road and Mountain Biking.

Touring

• Ergonomically precise DIY bike fitting without prior knowledge

• For a comfortable upright riding posture on city and touring bikes

• Increases comfort and riding enjoyment, prevents discomfort

• Covers a wide range of bike types (trekking, fitness, commuter, etc.)

• E-bike ready

• Easy to understand and quick to implement

• Incl. online access to the instructional video

• Made in Germany

Fitting Box Road Expert

• Covers the special features in terms of ergonomics for racing cyclists, triathletes and cross-country cyclists

• Designed for ambitious drivers

• Combines ergonomics and performance requirements

Fitting Box MTB Expert

• S pecially developed for MTB riders

• C overs the ergonomic specifics of MTB disciplines

• Ride quality and performance are combined

BOOTS (OR BIKE SHOES) ON THE GROUND

Bicycle Network has a long and storied history and, looking back, it is amazing how much we have achieved in 50 years.

None of our wins for bike riding would have been possible without the active participation of an engaged and committed membership.

Whatever the issue – major strategic decisions with the future of key networks at stake, or irritations that made everyday riding unnecessarily difficult – we knew that our members would be there to write letters, attend meetings, and storm the barricades, if it ever came to that.

Even today, when issues get to the pointy end, a key ally is often the local bicycle user group (affectionately known as a BUG) which, with boots on the ground and an understanding of the local context, can exert influence and help bring support to tip the balance in a bureaucratic decision.

We are often asked by our membership about options for joining such groups, for forming them, and for building and growing their size and impact.

In our experience, BUGS grow and prosper when they have a strong social foundation, such as a regular riding program that accepts the full spectrum of riding types and interests. Solid bonds develop among the group, interests align and friendships flourish.

This makes it easier to develop consensus on key issues and to decide priorities for action, which the group can get behind and take to their community and various levels of government with a clear and united voice.

A confident and unified group does not need to be angry and aggressive to get the attention of authorities: if it is working effectively, it will be constantly reaching out to key individuals in councils and elsewhere, establishing relationships and building trust.

Those with authority over our riding environment generally appreciate the opportunity to get an insight into riders’ needs and expectations. Designers and planners often face problems in their work that BUGS can help them resolve and the key to success is ensuring they are comfortable reaching out for an opinion.

An effective BUG should have people in its group who keep up to date with council agenda papers and are on the watch for emerging issues that may impact riders. Group members should be familiar with transport strategies, action plans and budgets. Someone who can read and interpret an engineering drawing is invaluable.

Command of subject matter wins respect, avoids misunderstanding, and repels conspiracy theorists.

Being in a BUG should never be a stressful experience, especially as we are always telling new riders about the physical and mental health benefits of bike riding. There will be obstacles: there is an old saying that everything in transport takes 30 years!

Yes, things can move slowly, and many BUG advocates are retirees, and counting down the years. But a good BUG needs strategy as well as patience to help get projects planned and developed well in advance so they are ready to get rolling when the planets align, or a council election is on the horizon.

And yes, you can do a lot of positive things for the riding environment, even if you are not in a BUG. Individually, or with a few friends, you can informally organise within your own networks to get issues in front of the people that matter.

Remember, Bicycle Network is always here to advise when you need assistance.

Garry Brennan is Bicycle Network’s Senior Policy Advisor and joined the organisation in 2018.

You can find out more about your local BUG on our interactive map www. bicyclenetwork.com.au/tips-resources/maps-and-rides/ bicycle-user-groups-bugs/

REWRITE THE RULES OF SPEED AND PERFORMANCE

Mavic’s range doesn’t rely on clichés. Instead, we combine century-old know-how with the most progressive technology to rewrite the rules of speed and efficiency. ALUMINIUM or CARBON, RIM BRAKES or DISC , with tubes or tubeless, each element is meticulously designed and tested, so you can focus on your goals, whether that’s crushing timed segments, making the breakaway or pushing through a long-distance adventure. Have fun or exceed your limits our road range does the rest.

©
Photo: Dom Daher

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