Canberra Cyclists Maintain Winter Commuter Numbers

Arabic version: راكبو الدراجات في كانبيرا يحافظون على أعداد المتنقلين خلال الشتاء

Canberra cycling levels have stayed steadier than usual through the city’s frosty mornings, even though many commuters hang up their helmets for the season. The city is described in reporting as Australia’s “cycling capital.”

According to ABC News, public servant Candice says she is “an all-year-round cyclist” and started riding to work when her workplace introduced paid parking. She estimates she cycles about 2,500 kilometres each year and wears a puffer jacket, gloves and a balaclava to keep going. Candice also said, “If it’s below -1C or -2C, I generally have no feeling in my hands,” and that with all the gear she “probably looks a bit like a snowman.”

The story matters because cycling can reduce household transport costs and vehicle wear: Candice noted savings from avoided parking and less wear and tear on her car. Bike shop owners report a rise in cost-conscious customers seeking affordable riding options as concern about fuel availability and a general increase in the cost of living influence choices. Canberra also has more than 1,000 kilometres of bike paths that support commuting and recreational riding.

Community initiatives are supporting winter riders. Every Wednesday a group of children form the Downer Bike Bus to cycle to Lyneham Primary, a route that picks up children on a pre-planned path through the school’s catchment. Organizer Haydn said the bike bus is a “really positive way to get to school,” and that for them “it’s really about establishing healthy habits in young people.” He has attached a large speaker to his bike to play the children’s favourite songs for the journey.

Local bike retailers report a smaller-than-usual winter dip. Chris Baylis, who owns a shop in Canberra’s inner north, said this year’s decline “has been much less than in previous years.” He has seen people refurbish bikes from storage that “just need that massage,” and runs bicycle maintenance classes for Pedal Power that he says have been growing in popularity. Baylis links some of the renewed interest to fuel concerns and cost-of-living pressures and has noticed an uptick in e-assisted bike purchases, noting that “at about the $2,000 price mark, you can get something very reliable.” What happens next: bike maintenance classes have been growing in popularity and shops report increased interest in affordable e-assisted bikes.

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