Cycling

Newcastle Cycleways map outlines existing cycleways, recommended connecting routes and some of our proposed future works for the whole local government area. Pick up a paper copy from Newcastle libraries, bike shops, the Visitor Information Centre and Customer Service.

Know your rights and responsibilities

There are numerous rules developed to make the road a safer place. Beyond these rules, please be competent and compassionate to ensure everyone can travel together, whether you are a driver, bike rider or pedestrian.

As a bike rider, you must remember that many of the road rules apply to you, with some exceptions to help you and others move more safely and conveniently:

• Special rules for bike riders can be found on the NSW government website.
• Important rules include being able to take the lane, ride two abreast, use a bus lane, ride to the left of a continuous white line (i.e. in the shoulder or parking lane) and pass cars on the left.

Extra tips for sharing the road while riding a bike include:

• Remember not all vehicle drivers obey all the road rules, so be extra vigilant riding near cars, trucks, buses and motorbikes where they could potentially turn left, and near parked cars where doors could swing open.
• If you feel it is unsafe to ride in a bicycle lane, you are not required to and may take the traffic lane.
• You don't need to go into a parking lane to let cars pass if you don't feel it is safe to. Give yourself plenty of room to re-enter the traffic lane when needed.
• Make eye contact, use hand signals and polite gestures whenever you are interacting with other road users.

No matter how you travel, you can help make our streets safer by keeping an eye out for others and having a good grasp of your responsibilities.

Shared Pathways

When riding a bike, understand the needs of other people using shared paths, such as children, the elderly and people with disabilities by:

• slowing down
• ringing your bell if needed
• giving people plenty of room

Combined Pedestrian and Cycle Crossings

• When approaching a crossing, no matter your mode of travel, slow down and know your responsibilities and the needs of other road users.
• Bike riders and pedestrians have priority around the new combined pedestrian and cycle crossings.

Driveways

• When entering or leaving a driveway by bike or car, remember that you are just a guest on the path, and must give way to everyone - including children on bikes and scooters, the elderly and people with disabilities on footpaths, and all the people riding on shared path.
• Never park across a footpath or shared path, even if it is in your driveway between the road and your property.

Head to the NSW Road Safety website for a complete list of rules around sharing the road.

Have fun, feel more energetic and do your bit for the environment - there are so many reasons to get on your bike.

Health benefits

Riding to work or uni or using your bike for local trips is a great way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Health professionals recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each day to maintain good health.

Environmental benefits

Cycling does not emit greenhouse gases or other pollution. By choosing to ride rather than drive, we can contribute to national goals to reduce our dependence on non-renewable fossil fuels and improve air quality.

Economic benefits

The costs of owning and running a car can cost thousands, considering fuel, parking, depreciation, maintenance, registration and insurance. The costs of buying and maintaining a bike are around 1% of the cost of buying and maintaining a car. Also, bike parking (apart from usually being free) is generally easily accessible and more convenient than car parking, and usually free!

Social benefits

Cycling is a basic and affordable form of travel which is available to almost all ages and groups in society. Cycling provides opportunities for social interaction on the streets, enhancing a sense of community and safety.

Transport benefits

Bikes do less damage to road surfaces than cars. They are often quicker than cars over short distances. More bikes and fewer cars on the road can reduce congestion and its associated costs.

Find out about cycleway projects that we are planning and have completed.