We help debunk 8 cycling myths in New South Wales

Just like cars and motorcycles, in NSW, pushbikes are considered vehicles, so this means you’ve got to follow the same road rules as everyone else – plus a few extras that specifically apply to bicycle riders. These include things like giving a hand signal to turn or merge, wearing a helmet, having your bike fitted with a working bell, and more. 

Generally, cyclists aren’t meant to use the footpath, but there is an exception. If you’re under 16 years old, or you’re supervising someone under 16 years old who’s riding a bike, you can share the footpath with pedestrians. You just have to make sure you keep to your left and give way to those travelling on foot.

When it comes to texting, scrolling, video calls, and anything else that includes touching your phone, it’s a ‘Nope, nope, definitely not!’ situation. Just like those driving in a car, there are only two ways you can use a mobile phone while cycling:

1. Hands-free so you can make and receive calls, play some tunes or listen to a podcast, or;
2. Using a phone holder so you can follow a GPS.
   

We’ll keep this one short and simple. Anyone on two wheels must obey traffic signs and signals, the same as every other road user. No exceptions.

Now, truth be told, simulations do suggest that safe-cycling lanes can increase average car travel times by around 7%, but to lay all the blame on cyclists is a little unfair. Bad weather, road works, special events and of course, accidents, are just a few of the many factors that can contribute to a build-up of traffic. Keep in mind, you can actually move more people on bikes than you can cars, with less space. So, perhaps the argument here is more about the design of road infrastructure maximising traffic flow than it is about our Lycra-clad counterparts.

Tempting as it may be to have your dog do the work for you, this is a hard no. According to the NSW Road Rules, a bicycle rider must not lead an animal on a leash (including by tethering) while the bike is moving. 

Just like you would exchange details with another driver if you were involved in a crash, cyclists are required to do the same because details must be collected from anyone involved in an accident – whether it be a motorist, cyclist or pedestrian. Above all, if someone is injured or in danger after an accident happens, call 000 immediately.

Cyclists can indeed ride side-by-side with another bike (also known as two abreast), but only if they’re no more than 1.5 metres apart. If there’s a third rider, that rider must travel ahead of or behind the other two; they cannot ride beside them. 

Consider those myths officially busted! For more on road rules for bicycle riders in NSW, visit the NSW Government website.