The Secretary PO Box 719 Chain Mail Gladesville NSW 1675 Editor: Doug Stewart 9887 1478

Bike North Newsletter Nº 11, May 2000 web – http://galifrey.triode.net.au/bikenorth/ email – [email protected]

Squeaky Chain Updates Mail Gets Cycleway Now Open Needed Oil Wayne Spencer he long awaited cycleway is open. The new hain Mail takes on a new lease Tcycleway incorporates the previously disused railway bridge across the Cof life from this issue. River, between Meadowbank and Rhodes. The funding, over $1 million, came from the RTA, Department of Urban Affairs and Planning and Previously just one editor prepared the Rail Access Corporation, the Chain Mail, but now we have a bridge was adapted for bike use small editorial group to source under the project management of stories and to help out with the Ryde Council. work. The result is a new look, The northern end of the cycleway can only be accessed from Railway more efficient newsletter that aims Rd Meadowbank while the to cover all the cycling news and southern end is accessed from advocacy updates for the entire Blaxland Rd Concord. There is no direct route from the Parramatta Bike North area. Valley Cycleway to the bridge. We hope you like the changes. The best route is to head north from the Whether you do or don’t drop us up Bowden St, and then take the a line. We’d like to hear what you first left into Underdale Lane. think. Yes really! Perhaps you After a short very steep climb (or walk) you will come to a T- could or even drop in a intersection with Railway Rd, turn contribution for the next issue. We left to get to the northern will make room for letters to the entrance to the cycleway. editor. The John Whitton Bridge The cycleway is about 700m long, flat, wide and easy cycling, just what is needed right across . From the This issue brings a major feature on train it is obvious that the cycleway should be extended in both directions to the recently completed Big Big form a much longer facility. With appropriate lobbying from Bike North Ride, lots of news and updates Internet Reminders from our four working groups, a few pieces of general interest and Recently both the hardware and software used for the Bike North Web site has been changed. As a result all web addresses on this server are case sensitive! of course our Rides Program. Bike North web site http://galifrey.triode.net.au/bikenorth/ Happy reading and happy cycling. Rail Trail web site http://galifrey.triode.net.au/RailTrail/ The Editor BikeBus web site http://galifrey.triode.net.au/bikebus/ Bike North email address [email protected] BikeBus email address [email protected]

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 1 Chain Mail members this bridge will become part of the “rail trail” Footpaths, Gladesville Reserve, Buffalo Creek commuter veloway between Hornsby and Strathfield. Reserve, Other parks, Other) The John Whitton Bridge is classified as heritage 4. Do you have any suggestions for the location of infrastructure. The construction of the railway bridge additional cycle paths in the Municipality? (Please began in February 1885 and it was completed in August describe) 1886. The single track railway between Strathfield and If you wish to fill in a feedback form then please contact Hornsby was opened in September 1886. At that time Alister Sharp. there were seven stations on the new line: Strathfield, Ryde (now West Ryde), Dundas (now Eastwood), Field (For more information on Hunters Hill issues look under of Mars (now Epping), Beecroft, Thornleigh and the Working Group Reports below.) Hornsby. One of the difficulties in adapting the bridge for Bike North Meeting Report cycleway use was levelling out the surface of the bridge PBP/IHPV updates to create an even gradient in order for the cycleway Yaffa Gould decking material to be installed. The bridge deck was originally created with a series of bumps and hollows in ike North does not run many general meetings such a way that the weight of trains passing over the Bbecause we meet and discuss over email, at local bridge would flatten out these bumps and provide a working groups and of course at our rides. However we smooth ride. Obviously the weight of a cyclist passing do hold regular meetings and here’s a special report over the bridge could not be relied upon to have the from our last one. same effect so some areas of the deck had to be built up In February, Bike North was treated to a evening of slightly so as to provide a smooth ride. personal experience and triumph. A surprise visit by Jean The cycleway material is a lightweight composite Seay Secretary/Treasurer of International Human material which is an experiment for cycleways in Sydney Powered Vehicles (IHPV), kick-started the evening. Jean and it will be interesting to see how it lasts over time. was in Australia to pick up her new Greenspeed Trike. We were all in awe, because Jean is a spritely 71 years Bike Plan Soon for Hunters Hill young. She came to cycling late in life and found conventional bikes extremely uncomfortable. On spying Alister Sharp 9879 3664 a trike, she decided that should be her next vehicle and fter several years of discussion, and the recent Bike now she’s ridden a few. Being impressed with the quality ANorth Advocacy Ride in Hunters Hill, Council has of the Greenspeeds she decided she had to have one. now appointed a consultant, Contessa Hajinikitas of After picking it up, Jean headed down to do a bit of “Cycle Planning”, to prepare a Bike Plan for the Tassie touring to try it out! Jean made pleasing municipality. Contessa has set up a steering committee comments about Tasmanian roads and drivers. Jean had that had its second meeting on 16 May. About 25 an overall great experience. What a delightful lady! residents attended and answered a series of questions and The next speaker was Ian Humphries who told us about made valuable comments on the need for cycling his recent four week European cycling trip which facilities. Comments related to on-road and commuting culminated with his ride in the famous 1200km Paris- routes as well as the need for off-road and recreational Brest-Paris (PBP) Audax randonneur. Having completed routes. gruelling qualifying trials in Australia, including Sydney- Also a questionnaire recently distributed to all Hunters Canberra-Sydney in a single ride, Ian was accepted as a Hill households Council included the following questions contestant. He then headed to Europe, did some touring, relating to cycling: attended some cycling events including the HPV races in Interlaken, Switzerland. Ian took part on his new low 1. Approximately how often do you, or members of slung Greenspeed racer. Here’s Ian’s description of the your household cycle? (Every day, Once per week, start of the PBP: Once per month, Less than once per month) “Starting at 9:45pm with the tandems and other 2. What type of cycling do you or other members of recumbents was brilliant, and allowed me to avoid all the your household take part in most often? problems and crowding which I hear is a feature of 10pm (Recreational, To-school, Commuting, Racing, start. Surprisingly, but thankfully, on those first few real Other) pedal strokes I sensed that my legs were in great 3. Where do you or other members of your household condition. Phew! I changed my plans from starting very generally cycle? (All roads, Local roads only, conservatively to just spinning along with whoever seemed to be setting a comfortable pace. The first night

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 2 Chain Mail became an exhilarating and Waterloo Rd. (Note that a parking wonderful experience whizzing fee must be paid to the hungry For Sale through the streets and avenues of machine if you are driving your car Paris, sensations heightened by the to campus.) Touring Saddle attention required to pick out the he Bike North Annual Fun reflective arrows used to mark the TPicnic (AGM) will be held on Selle Bassano Trek Touring saddle. route. I felt great and nibbled Sunday August 20. This is a “must 160mm wide, 273mm long, occasionally from my pocket stash attend” event so mark the date in weighs 335g. This saddle is brand of whole dried bananas and your diary now. Come along to the new comes as standard equipment survived the few expected early usual activities that will involve an on the high quality Trek 520 Touring morning low spots at about 3am easy ride loop, (the nowadays bike. Very comfortable but just a bit and 5am. Though I’d never done infamous) whacky races with prizes too wide for the owner. $50 ono. any really serious night cycling and the BYO family picnic lunch. Contact Doug Stewart 9887 1478. before - I’d slept or rested most of Make sure you bring all your the night on my 600km qualifier - unusual bikes to take part in the Malvern Star Classic that first night and the other night races. Past experience has proven riding was definitely one of the that the smaller the wheels the Ladies Bike highlights of PBP!” bigger the fun. (Check out the Bike Circa 1980 this is a fully restored North web gallery for the proof.) single speed 28 inch bike. (Yes you The venue is yet to be announced can still get the tires.) Suitable for but will be a local park in the Bike rides in the Bike North easy style. North Area. $50 ono. ycle Sydney is on Sunday Contact Michael Bigley 0419 929 901. CDecember 3. This year, because of the Olympics, Sydney’s Custom Tricycle big cycling event has been Ian went on to complete the race in as raced circa 1980. This is not a postponed. We expect that there 69 hrs (90 hrs is allowed) with recumbent. The back half looks like will be the usual North Sydney to some 4 hrs total sleep! We all came Parramatta and Homebush to a standard 3 speed Sturmey Archer away from the talk feeling wow! Parramatta options. Tell your hub bike but it has two 27 x 1 inch Ian is an excellent orator, his friends and family. Bike North is wheels up front. Rear brake only. excitement and love of cycling planning a huge day out. We want $200 ono. comes through with every word. as many members as possible to Contact Michael Bigley 0419 929 901. For those on the web try ride together. We want racing http://bikeeden.com/audax_club_parisien.htm bikes, mountain bikes, tandems, Classic Criterium Racing for some pictures of Ian in the trailers, recumbents and all manner Bike event. of unusual devices. Come and join the fun day out. Put this in your For the enthusiast this is a real gem. diary now! Circa 1980 Top-of-the-line Shimano Diary Dates DuraAce components. This bike has he Olympic games is a chance to ext General Meeting will be cassette rear cogs with 14 speeds see top class athletes for free. Nheld on Tuesday June 27 at T and a 24 inch Reynolds 753 frame 8pm at the There will never be another chance in with 27 x 1 inch Araya Aero rims. Gymnasium. The topic for the night Australia to see so many high class $500 ono. is Advocacy work in Bike North. professional cyclists as in the road races Advocacy is the main way that we and the time trials. These are must see Contact Michael Bigley 0419 929 901. promote cycling and yet only a events. September 26, Womens Road Diamond Back minority of Bike North members Race, September 27 Mens Road Race, are active in it. We expect to have Mountain Bike September 30 for the time trials. We a representative of Bicycle NSW Black 20 inch Cro-moly frame with who will explain the roles of the also have some fantastic riders to cheer on. Be part of the spectacle and travel 24 speed STX-RC gears, LX V- two organisations. If you are brakes, Velocity deep V rims, RST involved in or interested in bicycle to Centennial Park for this great event. Mozo XL suspension forks. Both road advocacy then come to this Also don’t forget other Olympic and off-road tyres. $1,300 ono. meeting. Access to campus is from cycling events cross country mountain Culloden Rd near the corner of bikes, track cycling and triathlon. Contact Michael Bigley 0419 929 901.

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 3 Chain Mail We’ve included below just a few of the stories from this Just Cycling year’s Big Ride. There’s plenty more that could be told with about 20 Bike North members taking part in the ride. If you’d like to hear more why not come on a ride The Big Big Ride - Tweed Heads to or join in the AGM wacky picnic and just ask who was Sydney there. Other Big Riders come too and share your stories with us. See you on the next one! Carolyn New t was a sunny morning in late March as 1350 excited Big Ride People Icyclists and 300 support volunteers gathered in the far Who are these cyclists? Why do they do it? What is a north coast town of Tweed Heads preparing for an epic Big Ride really like? Here are a few word pictures. journey. For the next 16 days they would pedal southward to their final destination in Hornsby on the JOAN outskirts of Sydney. Each morning, except for rest days, Is a retired school teacher was a “vollie” last year in the most would go through the routine of taking down their catering tent. Cycling had to be easier, so she bought a tents, packing their enormous bags and loading them on bike and started preparation with encouragement from the support truck. her new cycling friends and strong determination. A fall Then they were and injury to her wrist didn’t stop her training, she free to spend a simply worked her leg muscles on a recumbent exercise day of cycling, bike until her wrist was stronger. When overwhelmed eating, cycling, by the magnitude of the task, she overcame her nerves drinking, cycling, with the mantra that “you can eat an elephant if you do chatting before finally it just a bit at a time”. Each day Joan cycled at her own arriving at their new camp. pace, pausing at every refreshment stop, but still arriving Each time the familiar at camp with plenty of time to explore the town. Brasserie, Catering, Store Despite thoroughly enjoying her two weeks on the road, and all the other tents, the Joan’s greatest moment was coming in to the finish and same old Shower and Loo that wonderful sense of fulfilment. trucks but always set up in GRAEME a new configuration. Joined the very first Big Ride in 1991 inspired, after a Yes! The annual RTA Big Ride organised by Bicycle long work stay in France, to see some of Australia by NSW was on again, but this year was very special; this bicycle. He’s not sure what it is, the new places, the year to celebrate 10 years of Big Rides, it was to be two scenery, the people, the food, the atmosphere, whatever full weeks covering 1150km winding though some of the it is, it draws him back each year. Graeme has found that most scenic parts of NSW. Over the mountains and the fitter he is before the ride begins, the more he enjoys along the occasional dirt road the route mostly avoided the Highway as it unfolded the most enjoyable way back to Sydney. With 1350 riders there’s 1350 reasons to ride the Big Ride but most commonly they do it for the challenge. An enjoyable challenge exercising in the open air through scenic countryside. An achievable challenge that any ordinary cyclists can do with just a little preparation. A shared challenge travelling and chatting with 1350 who all have at least one common interest. The specific challenge varies with the individual. For some it was important to ride every metre (no walking) while for others to get there under your own steam was enough (a little cross training never hurt anyone). Some extremely fit riders seemed to think it was important to ride back to the start each day! At least one rider set the campsite at Gloucester viewed from an ultra-lite himself the goal to cycle 200km everyday, including rest them. Starting at 7am each day, Graeme rides swiftly to days! morning tea and then lunch by about 9:30am. He slows his pace after “lunch” arriving very early in the afternoon. These early arrivals mean he has plenty of

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 4 Chain Mail campsite options though he often has to unload the encouragement preparing for the ride by his family and luggage truck! Then the afternoon is free to explore both his sons accompanied him on the last leg of the ride another new town, usually at walking pace. Plenty of from Brooklyn to Hornsby. energy to catch up with friends and enjoy the evening entertainment. Cryptic Snippets from the Big Ride JUNE AND KEVIN compiled by Rick Mockridge Second time Big Riders but first time campers, and were Just a short ride from Tweed Heads to Murwillumbah very visible and welcome landmarks at each campsite in but it was over the mountain for magnificent scenery and their “Taj Mahal” tent and Ground Effect clothing. June quiet roads. A great way to start building up those says she will always remember the journey and treasures climbing muscles for what lay ahead. the camaraderie and bonding friendships that developed. For Kevin, the ride also offered the opportunity to tag Hear the wind in the cane fields and you’d think you along with some very good riders particularly in the were near the sea. peletons that casually formed on most days. Climbing hills and coastal flats; shaded mountains and CAROLYN baking undulations; shepherded along a small stretch of Knew this ride would be a greater challenge both in highway and let loose on lots of backroads; such variety distance and the mountains than either of two previous in just one day from Murwillumbah to Byron. Big Rides she’d done. This ride would be the Byron at our feet, what a view! All the sweeter when opportunity to break through the hill barrier and that earned by pedal power. could only be done by mind over mountain. As part of The magic of a rainbow encircled camp at Casino, but a special community of fellow cyclists, many already alas no pot of gold in the near paddock. friends, about to start the journey of a lifetime, there wasn’t any other place she’d rather be. Thoroughly enjoying the riding and magnificent scenery she had an unfortunate tendency to hit the metaphorical wall on each fifth day of consecutive riding. Nevertheless she always made it into camp under her own steam encouraged and supported by her Big Ride family. Meeting the last day’s extra hilly challenges just topped a great ride.

RICK On his first Big Ride and didn’t know quite what to expect but looked forward to the adventure of the open road ride in a relatively safe environment. With some experience of the coastal highway behind him he Rainbow at Casino appreciated the security of this superbly organised ride Showgrounds are such interesting campgrounds and and strong police supportive presence where it was arouse the ingenuity of cyclists looking for that little needed. Now an experienced Big Rider, Rick has lots of extra shelter and some drying space. ideas on how to make his next Big Ride even more enjoyable and is eagerly waiting details of the route. Hassle a cyclist on a Big Ride and expect a visit from one of their 13 cyclist friendly support police. JOHN It’s not a good idea to truck your house down the A retired school teacher who came back for his second Summerland Highway when 1350 cyclists are coming Big Ride, and not only achieved his personal challenge of through. You’ll only get flagged down and fined not to riding every kilometre but he also raised significant mention the odd cyclist hanging on for a free ride. dollars for the MS Society. With the final total still coming in, to date he has raised over $1,800. The The “Rail Trail” crossing of the Clarence River at students at his school were so inspired by his Grafton was an unexpected surprise but it just didn’t commitment to the have enough capacity for 1350 cyclists en-mass in one direction, especially for the locals coming the other way! ride they held a “Mufti Day”, raising $1,060, a school record for such events. Individual donations primarily by A favourite section was the lovely back road to beautiful his colleagues completed the tally. They all closely Bellingen for lunch and a swim in the Bellinger River. followed John’s journey from his regular phoned-in reports. John received strong support and

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 5 Chain Mail What about that promised quiet meander along the river flat to Advocacy Issues South West Rocks that turned into a long battle against strong headwinds. Lane Cove Tunnel Proposal We’ll try to forget that shuddering Doug Stewart 9887 1478 rocky downhill through the State he RTA is investigating the project to build a tunnel to bypass Epping Forest near Lorne where the hands TRoad from the to the Gore Hill Freeway. An overview were more exhausted than the document was produced and circulated for public comment. Bike North made legs!! a detailed submission in response. Copies available on our web site under Hurrah to the welcome of the “advocacy”. Landsdowne Primary School The proposal was to move the majority of the traffic underground then to children who cheered the riders reduce the car capacity on the existing Epping Road and to promote use of into afternoon tea after a wearying buses. A quality cycleway was initially planned, however we understand the and hilly 95km. current suggested plan to accommodate cyclists is to use the southern footpath Farewell to sheep farmers Steve for much of the way. We are very concerned about this downgrading and are and Annie at Taree, who felt it was following up in community focus group sessions. all too hard after the 115km day. We are also concerned that existing cycling facilities on the Gore Hill But on arriving back at Goulburn, Freeway are proposed for removal to be replaced by a non-continuous route. Steve exhibited signs of withdrawal so Annie brought him back to The proposal from BNSW is for dedicated 1.5 metre wide cycle lanes as per Dungog for the rest of the ride. the national AustRoads 14 standard and finished in a green colour along the whole length of Epping Road/Longueville Road. On the rest day at Gloucester, the “tired” Laundrette Man took 200 For more information contact Russ Webber, North Shore Bicycle Group, large bags of laundry off in his 9906 7238 (H), Email: [email protected] station wagon. The “Vollies” saved the day and soon had it all organised, everything beautifully cleaned, ironed and folded; the local CWA must have been very busy that day and night! Keith Griffin [email protected] Then there was Dungog, more In the four months since the BikeBus made its maiden voyage the numbers of accurately and widely known as “passengers” has grown, and the group has learned to work together making DunBOG. for an efficient and fun ride to work. On several Tuesday mornings there have Not much pity for the young dirt been as many as 10 riders in the bus, creating a significant presence on the biker who thought a burn through road, and promoting cycling through courteous road behaviour, high visibility the Cessnock campsite would be a and a safe and speedy journey. Significantly we have experienced minimal great lark until he met our police “aggro” from motorists, and found that for the most part we are accepted as support! traffic. The BikeBus often meets other cyclists en route, and some of these You mean tomorrow we have to have now become regular BikeBus passengers. Why not join the BikeBus one climb Dog Trap, Moonee AND Tuesday morning? Sure, its not a social ride, but what a great way to get to Brooklyn Hills before we ride to work! And its all downhill…except for the uphills :) Give the BikeBus driver the finish line!!!!!!! Craig Grimmond a call (9482 3060) or email us. See you on the bus soon. …the revenge of the zip/zips turned out to be a 5am wakening Ku-ring-gai Working Group to the wail of Amazing Grace; to Ian Jackson 9416 4290 [email protected] laugh and hear the campsite laugh David Leitch [email protected] with you; and then the applause This group is now working very well and is attempting to grapple with the from each tent. That epitomised many issues in the area. If you live in the Ku-ring-gai area please give us a the magic of a Big Ride! hand to make things work for cyclists. Here is a run down of the issues identified so far.

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 6 Chain Mail Several cycle routes are being transport. Certainly Council itself Discussion has been around the investigated to join De Burghs should provide parking at all its problem of parking congestion at Bridge to the Pacific Highway and venues. the popular Gladesville RiverCat then to the St Ives shopping Village. A review is being done of the ferry wharf (an opportunity for bike This would link the cycleways in dangerous storm water grates that lockers?) and parking at the Ryde Council area over a difficult are still on the Pacific Highway Gladesville shops (an opportunity section of terrain and on to Mona with a view to reporting to Council for bike parking rails?). Vale Road. The RTA are interested and the RTA. Bike Map: A small working party to fund a regional route in this area (Rick Mockridge, Tony Evans and and the group is still investigating Finally a note that Ku-ring-gai Council has a web site at: Alister Sharp) have completed a the preferred option. The first first draft of a bike map for Hunters component will be a shared path up http://www.kmc.nsw.gov.au/. Search for the word bicycle to find Hill. It shows suggested commuting the western footpath to Yanko and recreational routes, and Road, 750m long and 2.5m wide. the recent Traffic & Transport Base Study which mentions bikes. connections to adjacent suburbs Several routes from there have been (Lane Cove, surveyed to the north with the The next meeting of the group is Cycleway, and over the Gladesville favoured route running via set for June 5, so please make time Bridge to Drummoyne). It also Bicentennial Park, Yarrara Pde, to come and help, or at least find includes features of interest to Pymble Ave, Pymble Station out the updates. Call for details. cyclists, such as parks, toilets and underpass then Grandview and water taps, bike shops, coffee shops Telegraph Road. Hunters Hill and bakeries. These are overlaid on Another area of concern is the a map obtained from Land upper half of Kissing Pt Rd Working Group Information Centre, Bathurst between the Comenarra and the Alister Sharp 9879 3664 (previously known as the Central Pacific Hwy that still needs to be [email protected] Mapping Authority). It is planned completed. Most of the route just to print maps on durable, requires widening although we are Advocacy Ride waterproof paper in a foldout investigating alternatives to the Eight people rode the main streets format for ease of use. We are steep pinch near the top. and backways of Hunters Hill on exploring options for funding the Contact has been established with Sunday 20 February to consider printing and distribution of these council officers who we are finding ways of improving cycling in the maps. municipality. We were pleased to are responsive to our concerns. Ku- Bike Plan ring-gai Council still needs to adopt have Margaret Christie, one of the existing Bike Plan as policy and Hunters Hill’s Councillors, as one As reported above Hunters Hill a draft policy statement will be of the riders. We looked at the should soon have its first bike plan. forwarded to us for input. Council main routes in and out of Hunters will also follow up funding options Hill (, Burns Bay from the RTA for specific projects. Rd, Victoria Rd, Ryde Rd and Pittwater Rd), and the delights of Bike North is represented on the the off-road route along Tarban Council Traffic Committee by John Creek. And we had a long coffee Watts and we are able to keep a stop afterwards to compile a list of watch on local issues this way. suggestions to Council. The group is concerned that the Council has written to Gladesville annual event “Cycle for a Kid who Shopping Centre proposing to Can’t” was cancelled last year and The Hunters Hill Advocacy Ride, 20 Feb, install bike racks in the car park, included recreational and commuting will investigate whether it can be and is attending to some of the cyclists. run this year. If you are interested ‘maintenance issues’ we noted. in that event please contact the group. Public Transport & Traffic The process is well under way but Advisory Committee if you live in or ride through parts Provision of bicycle parking of Hunters Hill then please have facilities will be raised with Council Alister Sharp has been appointed as your say. If you travel down with the agenda being to ensure a representative of cyclists on this Pittwater Road or over the local venues are well catered for in committee, and has attended the Gladesville Bridge then you travel order to encourage more cycling as first couple of monthly meetings. through Hunters Hill. Contact

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 7 Chain Mail Alister and let him know what you concerned about potential changes The Rail Trail Supporters Program want in the area. to Delhi and Pittwater Roads. has got off to a great start with Alister would appreciate any publicity on the front page of Push assistance from residents of Hunters Hornsby Working On, on the Big Ride and handing Hill to help out and share the load Group out brochures one day on the a little. [email protected] Harbour Bridge. If you haven’t signed up yet then this is easily Alas, we still do not have an active Ryde Working Group done through the web site at Hornsby working group despite Wayne and Louise Spencer 9874 6977 having many many members in this http://galifrey.triode.net.au/RailTr [email protected] area. We need a regular venue and ail/. (Note our server is case The big news in Ryde has been the a small group prepared to help out sensitive so copy exactly!) opening of the John Whitton Bridge with advocacy. As you can see from A logo designed by Rob Rogers, (see article elsewhere in this the other three groups there would newsletter). The working group has be plenty to do but local knowledge half Train/Bike wheel sitting on the been liaising with Council for over is essential. Without this group we words RailTrail has been adopted to twelve months on the detail for this cannot improve cycling in the give the group an easily recognised project. Our biggest concern at Hornsby area. Over to you. identity. It looks very distinctive present is the lack of a link directly Potential issues include identifying and professional and lends itself from the Bridge to Meadowbank safe road routes around the area well for easy reproduction on a Wharf and we are following this up particularly from Pennant Hills to wide range of materials; looks good with Council although RTA funding Hornsby, overseeing the implemen- looks unlikely in the short term. on the brochure, badges, various tation of the Bike Plan that we posters and a prototype shirt. Other discussions with Council worked so hard to create, have been about improving the campaigning for the Rail Trail signage on existing cycleways in between Hornsby and Eastwood, Ryde and supplying bike parking repair and upgrading of the Old rails at local shopping centres. We Pacific Highway cycle track, bike are also following up casual parking parking at the local shops and rails at stations. vigilance of traffic and transport We have also been informed that issues approved by Council. the Department of Transport is If you are interested in working to planning to install bike lockers at address these issues and more in a several rail stations in the area with rejuvenated group then contact four to go in at Meadowbank, eight Doug Stewart 9887 1478 or email The Rosehill/Carlingford proposal at West Ryde, and eight at the address shown above. We need is now up on the web. The group Eastwood. your help. plans to send out over 50 copies of In the next budget period work will the proposal and has already continue on another extension of attracted much official interest! the Shrimpton’s Creek Cycleway Rail Trail Group north of Kent Rd at North Ryde. In the next few months we would Carolyn New 9438 1903 We hope that with the construction like to approach schools in the area [email protected] of a bridge over the creek itself in for their support. If anyone has the next year or two will create a Yaffa Gould 9966 9262 contacts please let the group know [email protected] continuous local cycleway to link as that is always the most successful many residential areas to the The opening of the John Whitton Macquarie Centre, many places of way to make contact! We would Bridge hails another piece of the like to reach as many people as employment and the University. Main Line Rail Trail in place! It was possible, if you have any suggestions We are following up with Council great to ride and SEE the possibility the plans for traffic changes in the of similar tracks right throughout where we can advertise, or Putney area in particular changes to the rail network! Though only suggestions for suitable web links or Morrison Road, which is currently short, certainly worth a visit! (more places to put brochures, please let a designated cycleway. We are also elsewhere in this issue). us know, ideas are always welcome!

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 8 Chain Mail The fitting kit consists of a bracket On the other hand for urban dual Bike Bits with velcro strap for mounting on transport use - this is the bike! the bike frame with or without a Most folding bikes a) wrench the bottle cage. Weight 250g plus shoulder from the socket; b) smear We Have New bracket (not super light but it chain grease all over the apparel of promises to last). Length 37cm. the fellow commuter; and c) are Pumps Price $64.95 (Dec. 1999) less too bulky for anything but the boot Pam & Col Kendrick BNSW discount, from Bike Barn, of a car. After one old pump broke, we Parramatta. In my opinion The Strida is the began the search for a new one, only bike without these with several criteria in mind. It shortcomings and which really needed to be compact, robust, be The Strida 2 meets the requirement for dual at least mostly of metal Tony Evans mode commuting. It can be construction and be able to achieve wheeled, has a grease free adequate tyre pressures when I had the opportunity of transmission and is not bulky. operated by a person without the undertaking a swift trial of the Strida 2 en route to meet my Two cons. a) being engaged in shoulder strength of a front row animated conversation with a hand forward. We think we found the daughter while visiting London earlier this year. resting on the upper hinge as the answer. Read on. bike is unfolded can be an The bike shop I visited was Action unwelcome experience (ouch!), but Bikes (email, [email protected]) of sufficient searing pain to ensure on Embankment Place. It really that it is unlikely to be repeated; does fold/unfold in seconds with and b) depending upon the the wheels clipping together (hub anatomy, and the degree of to hub) in the folded position to slouching, the rider’s weight can provide a “walking stick on wheels”. Although it The product is a Topeak Dual weighs about Master Blaster, a dual chamber mini 10 kg it feels pump with 3 position thumb lighter and is operated valve lock, swivel grip easy to wheel handle and in built tyre pressure around in the gauge. Using both chambers (low folded position. pressure/high volume), enables I took it for a rapid inflation to start with and ride on the then flick the thumb lever to single pavement of chamber (high pressure/low Embankment volume) to allow inflation of tyres Place, which enabled me to try out become somewhat finely balanced up to 120psi. This is a clever its general performance. It over the rear wheel to the device. accelerates rapidly to its top speed detriment of steering efficiency. An aggressive trim and taut posture is The handle and head assembly are (sped past pedestrians), can be the way to go at all times. made from fibreglass reinforced brought to a halt quickly nylon plastic. The padded handle (pedestrians leap aside unharmed) The bike I rode was exactly as swivels for comfortable use at any with the hub brakes and has described and illustrated in the angle and the head, which is reasonable manoeuvrability 1999 copy of Encycleopedia (p 21), convertible for both Presta and (pedestrians immobilised into pillars and retailed at the cost shown, Schraeder valves, is angled for ease with fear). Although it was quite £335. exhilarating to ride under these of use. This pump, which is formed circumstances, it’s lack of real Roland Plastics, the manufacturers by a single aluminium extrusion, is speed and the general design would of the Strida have a web site at easily disassembled for cleaning and not make it my first choice for www.rolandplastics.co.uk/plastics/ replacement of worn parts such as attacking the open road. strida.htm, and they respond plunger seals (which are easily promptly to emails. acquired “o”-rings).

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 9 Chain Mail mirror at what’s under the helmet. See the face can you? The Interest Uh-uh. Grey fluff obscuring it? See what I mean? Department It seems that it’s almost a uniform accoutrement for male cyclists. You know, have bike, have beard. These men pushing pedals wear all the brightly-coloured, torso- Harbour Bridge Count gripping, thigh-hugging gear, supposedly to make them Guess how many cyclists were counted crossing the go faster, and then they top this lot with copious facial Harbour Bridge cycleway on a weekday morning hair. Now being of the fairer sex, I am unable to between 7am and 9am. The count totalled 214, nearly produce one of these fluffies of the face but even if I two every minute. We believe this number would jump were, wouldn’t the wind resistance be a drag? dramatically if cyclists had better access to the Bridge, especially if our Rail Trail was built. Food for thought Theories abound. Do these gallant pedalers start off and advocacy. riding bikes with beards? Or do they develop them to keep the lower halves of their faces warm on wet and A Sydney City BUG!! windy days? A lot of bike riders are up and at it early in the morning - doesn’t leave a lot of time for shaving, I Lots of cyclists and lots of Bike North members travel suppose. to, in and/or around the city. A city which has very poor cycling facilities. To change this situation a Sydney Or could it be that taking their lives in their hands daily City BUG has been formed. Why not join in, after all on the city’s roads literally turns their beards grey? Now there’s no rule that says you can only join one BUG. there’s a thought. Head down, in the traffic, fume-filled One of the problems in trying to make the Sydney city face and fear-filled belly. Enough to turn the toughest area cycle friendly has been that there has not been a growth grimy grey in days. Sydney City BUG to pressure the Council. Maybe you Or is it that these potent peddlers have something to ride in Sydney city, maybe you live in the city area or hide? A bid not to be recognised perhaps? maybe you just want to see Australia’s biggest city one day have a bicycle plan. CityBUG is being set up to do No. I think there’s a much deeper reason for this strange what BUGs do best, bug the City Council to get on with and frequent phenomenon. It’s all to do with an uprising it and do a bike plan and improve access for bikes. of garden gnomes. Bored with sitting in manicured front The launch of CityBUG on Sunday June 4. A ride is gardens, these little bearded people take to the streets planned to mark the start of the new BUG, starting once in a while, cycling stealthily while hiding behind the 10am at Town Hall steps, and going around the well beards they were born with. known sights of Sydney, taking in Kings X, Gives a whole new meaning to “On yer bike”, doesn’t Woollomooloo, Lady Macquarie’s point, Opera House (a it? litle bit of walking in the Quay area), the Rocks, over to Pyrmont and finishing with lunch in Chinatown. Why don’t you come and give CityBUG a good launch. Will HSC Physics Question be trying to get a few pollies and celebs along too. At For those interested in the theoretical components of least hoping for some numbers to impress the Lord cycling here is an interesting item. Correspondence on Mayor. the physics of cycling will be gratefully received, If you are interested contact Andrew Dodds. 9377 7575 especially if it explains things simply. (w), 9550 4575 (h), 0414 705 218 (mob) In the next Chain Mail we’ll publish the answer, along with any you send us – the best and the funniest! Bearded Blokes On Bikes Q. A cyclist can turn a corner without touching the Jo Arblaster handlebars simply by leaning in the intended direction of Question: Why do so many grey-bearded men ride turn. Explain this with the aid of a vector diagram bikes? showing the angular quantities which relate to the Have you noticed the frequency of this fashion statement behaviour of the front wheel. - if that’s what it is? Just cruise past the next cyclist you come across on the road, giving him a wide berth as per the road rules, and take a quick peek in the rear view

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 10 Chain Mail

Bike North Rides Program – May to July 2000

May 2000 Contact: Tony Evans 9679 1647 (H) Starts at: Scheyville National Park Office, off Scheyville Rd, Date: Saturday 20 May Scheyville. This is an easy off road morning ride, through Ride: Explore Castle Hill different landscapes. Limited numbers. Please phone for Grade: Easy Distance: 20km details and to book a place. Contact: Pam & Col Kendrick 9872 2583 June 2000 Starts at: Council car park in McDougall Lane, Castle Hill (behind the bike shop) at 8am. Explore Castle Hill’s parks and Date: Saturday 3 June cycleways, with a cake shop stop. Ride: Rookwood and Duck River Date: Sunday 21 May Grade: Easy/Med Distance: 40 km Ride: Kurnell Capers Contact: Doug Stewart 9887 1478 (H) Grade: Hard Distance: 110 km Starts at: Meadowbank Wharf at 7:30am. Ride via Homebush Contact: Doug Stewart 9887 1478 (H) and Rookwood to Auburn and the Duck River. Return to Meadowbank after a suitable coffee stop. Starts at: Meadowbank Wharf at 7:00am. Ride via Cooks River Cycleway then Botany Bay Cycleway to Kurnell for Date: Sunday 4 June lunch. Return the same way to make this a long all day Ride: Bobbin Head ride. Fit Riders only. Grade: Medium Distance: 50 km Date: Sunday 21 May Contact: Keith and Fran Griffin 9614 0777, 0414 187 427 Ride: Easy Olympic Site Ride for Reluctant Cyclists Starts at: Eastwood Station (western side) 8:00 am. Ride to South Grade: Easy Distance: 25 km Turramurra via Brown’s Waterhole bike track, up Kissing Contact: Carolyn New 9438 1902 and Louise Spencer Point Rd to Turramurra and then along Bobbin Head Rd. 9874 6977 Return via similar route. Starts at: 9 am at Memorial Park at Meadow Crescent, Date: Sunday 11 June Meadowbank. You only need to be able to balance a Ride: Parramatta Park bike and have access to a bicycle in good mechanical condition for this cycle meander. If you’re looking for a Grade: Easy Distance: 25 km ride with more social chat and coffee than effort, give Contact: Wayne Spencer 9874 6977 (H) this one a try. Farm out the kids or pets. Leave the fami- Starts at: Meadowbank Wharf at 9:00am and journey to ly to household duties, and come join us on an easy pot- Parramatta Park via the Parramatta Valley Cycleway for ter over the new John Whitton Bridge cycleway to a few laps. Return the same way with a break for morn- and the Olympic site. No kids, no pets, ing tea in Parramatta. no worries! Come pedal and chat with us too. Date: Sunday 11 June Date: Saturday 27 May Ride: Country Ride with River views Ride: Cooks River and Grade: Easy/Med Distance: 30 km Grade: Medium Distance: 40km Contact: Alister Sharp 9879 3664 (H) Contact: Brian Willis 9807 6439 (H) Starts at: Starting time 9:30am. A loop around the Hawkesbury Starts at: Meadowbank Wharf at 7:30am. Ride via Homebush River, riding along minor roads, with a pleasant coffee and Cook’s River Cycleway to Marrickville then stop. Children accompanied by parents welcome. Hawthorne Canal Cycleway to our favourite coffee shop Phone for details. at Concord. Return to Meadowbank. Date: Saturday 17 June Date: Sunday 28 May Ride: Akuna Bay and Church Point Ride: Jazz at Pearl Beach (from Cowan) Grade: Hard Distance: 80 km Grade: Hard Distance: 80km Contact: Doug Stewart 9887 1478 (H) Contact: Nick Wardrop 4344 7273, 0418 254 275 Starts at: Eastwood Station west side at 7:00 am. Ride up through Starts at: Cowan Station at 8am. Ride via the Old Pacific St Ives and Terrey Hills, loop through Akuna Bay before Highway to Woy Woy and then on to the very scenic a coffee stop at Church Point. Grind up to Terrey Hills Pearl Beach for a lunch time café meal with jazz music. and return to Eastwood. Ride back to Woy Woy Station for train trip back to your starting point. Those dining must book in by 21 May. Fit Date: Sunday 18 June riders only as the pace will be brisk. Optional short ride Ride: Galston Arcadia Ride from Woy Woy (22km) to enjoy the Jazz. Ring for more Grade: Med/Hard Distance: 45 km details. Contact: Mark Grimmond 9456 5291 (H) Date: Sunday 28 May Starts at: Starts at west side of Hornsby Station at 8:00am. To Ride: Scheyville National Park (MTB) Galston via Galston Gorge and then through Arcadia Grade: Easy/Med Distance: 22km and Berowa to Berowa Waters. Up the hill to Berowa and then return to Hornsby on the Pacific Hwy.

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 11 Chain Mail

Date: Sunday 25 June Date: Sunday 16 July Ride: Eastwood to Parramatta big loop Ride: North to Akuna Bay Grade: Medium Grade: Med/Hard Distance: 70km Distance: 45km Contact: Wayne Spencer 9874 6977 (H) Contact: Pam & Col Kendrick 9872 2583 Starts at: Eastwood Station (west side) at 8:00 am. Ride north and Starts at: Eastwood Station west side at 7:30am. Ride via the M2 uphill before dropping down to the Bay Marina for cof- to Winston Hills, then down the cycle route to Parramatta fee & chat. Hills are reversed on the way home. Ferry Wharf café, Returning via the cycleway & Victoria Rd to Meadowbank then Eastwood. Suitable for trikes! Date: Saturday 22 July

Date: Sunday 25 June Ride: Concord Cake Extravaganza Ride: Cowan to Calga Grade: Easy/Med Distance: 25 km Grade: Med/Hard Distance: 60km Contact: Geoff Gould 9966 9262 (H) or 0412-993344 (M) Contact: Brian Willis 9807 6439 (H) Starts at: Meadowbank Wharf at 7:30am. Ride Eastwards to the Starts at: Cowan Station 7:40 am (meets the country train). Ride Gladesville Bridge (some hills) then via the southern bank through magnificent Hawkesbury River Valley on quiet westwards to that great cake shop at Concord for your roads. Return via Brooklyn for coffee and gateaux. favourite Italian cakes and pastries. Return via to the starting point. July 2000 Date: Sunday 23 July Date: Saturday 1 July Ride: Olympic Park Updates Ride: Orbit Olympic Park Grade: Easy Distance: 25 km Grade: Easy Distance: 25 km Contact: Michael Chow 9874 1461 (H) Contact: Doug Stewart 9887 1478 (H) Starts at: Meadowbank Wharf at 8:30am. Loop via the north Starts at: Meadowbank Wharf at 7:30am. Via PVC, Silverwater then south shores of the Parramatta River to see the latest and the best features of the Olympic site. An outdoor cof- changes at the Olympic Park site. Coffee & return. fee venue & return via the John Whitton Bridge. Date: Saturday 29 July Date: Sunday 2 July Ride: Cowan to Calga to Cowan Ride: Parramatta by Bike Path and Highway Grade: Med/Hard Distance: 60km Grade: Medium Distance: 45 km Contact: Tony Evans 9679 1647 Contact: Keith and Fran Griffin 9614 0777, 0414 187 427 Starts at: Cowan Station at 7:40 am (meets the train). Ride down Starts at: Eastwood Station at 7:30am. To Meadowbank Wharf, and up and down and up the sides of the Hawkesbury then west along the cycleway & short stretch of Victoria Rd (instead of that Bridge!!). Tackle the North Rocks River Valley along the old highway. Coffee stop at Road hill to Carlingford and return to start via M2 or Brooklyn before the last hill. backroads. (Suitable for trikes.) Date: Sunday 30 July Date: Saturday 8 July Ride: Historic Hospitals & Ride: Faulconbridge to Berowra Grade: Easy Distance: 25 km Grade: Hard Distance: 100km Contact Alister Sharp 9879 3664 (H) Contact: Kin-Yat Lo 9980 7143 Starts at: Old Hospital gates in Punt Rd near Ashburn Place, Starts at: Faulconbridge Station (train from city). Ride over sealed Gladesville at 9:00am. Via the Gladesville Bridge to rural roads with an net height drop of 450 vertical Drummoyne. Possible 9:45am pick up at Drummoyne metres. Brisk pace, fit riders only. Train from the finish. Swimming Pool. Ride around Iron Cove, Callan Park Phone for start time. and return. Bring a big morning tea. Suitable for families Date: Sunday 9 July and beginners. Phone to confirm details. Ride: Pie in the Sky Ride Grade: Easy/Med Distance: 40 km All persons joining our rides do so as volunteers in all respects Contact: Mark Grimmond 9456 5291 (H) and as such accept sole responsibility for any injury Starts at: West side of Hornsby Station at 8:30am. Ride along the howsoever incurred and Bike North and the appointed ride Old Pacific Highway to the café overlooking Brooklyn contacts cannot be held liable in respect of any injury or for morning tea and great views. Reverse the route to Hornsby. damage resulting from participants engaging in any such ride activity. Riders under 16 must be accompanied by a cycling Date: Saturday 15 July adult carer. An SAA approved helmet is legally required by all Ride: Brighton Bacon By Bicycle participants on all rides. Essential equipment also includes a Grade: Med/Hard Distance: 65km bicycle in good working order, water bottle and a good sense Contact: Doug Stewart 9887 1478 (H) of fun. Money, tasty snacks, a tyre pump, a tube and/or Starts at: Meadowbank Wharf at 7:30am to ride via the Cooks River Cycleway to Botany Bay. A late breakfast or snack repair kit and appropriate tools are recommended as well, but with good coffee before retracing our route. you can usually borrow them if necessary.

Number 11 May 2000 – Page 12