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NEW SOUTH WALES VICTORIA Bicycle Institute of NSW Bicycle Institute of Victoria 399 Pitt Street, Sydney. PO Box 1961 R Ph: 233 5388 . GPO Melbourne Victoria 3001 Newcastle Cycleways Movement Hon Research Officer: 6 Jefferson Street, Adamstown Alan Parker, ph: 562 194 Central Coast Cycleways Movement Melbourne Bicycle Touring Club 6 Kimberley Avenue Contact Caroline Chapman, 518 875 Narara- NSW 2251 Anybodys Cycle Club Contact John Ellis, 211 9181 Pedal Power 11 lawarra 20 H.illcrest Street Ea stern Bicycle Touring Club West Wollongong Contact: Alan Parker, 288 4893 Cyclist Action Group (CY AG) Knox Bicycle Touring Club c/o .. Environment Centre Contact John Richards, 729 6405 233 Pitt Street, Sydney 2000 Penny Farthing Pedal Club NSW Amateur Bicycle Federation Contact Table Valentyn, 691 469 Secretary: Fay Rampling Waverley Recreational Cyclists 7 Neridah Avenue, Mt Colah NSW Contact Brian Schauer, 561 2214 Wheelmans Club of NSW Youth HDstels Association Cycl ing 39 King Street, Ashbury Cycling Club Ph: 798 4224 Contact Kim Fawkes, 523 7476 League of Wheelmen Bicycle Institute of Victoria Touring Contact Sid Freshwater (523 4428) Group offers help and advice to any Veterans Wheelmans Club one wishing to start a touring or Secretary les Oates (607 8435) general cycling club. All of the Green Valley Cycle Touring Club above clubs are represented by this Contact Ru sse l Moore group. For general touring info and Ph: 607 8686 club help contact: Ruurd Snoekstra, ph : 329 7250. Non Club Cycle Tourers Contact Doug Sotheren Ph: 854 489 [h] AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL ,The Bicycle lnstute Touring Group TERRITORY offers help to any one wishing to Pedal Power ACT Inc form a touring club or local cycle PO Box E 305 group. General NSW touring advice Canberra ACT 2600 can also be obtained from extensive files now in the process of being catalogued. This BI NSW group also produces a touring calendar twice a WESTERN AUSTRALIA year and wi 11 advertise tours free of Cycle Touring Association of WA charge on the calendar to any non­ 3 1 Bruton Street profit cycle group. Contact Warren Balcatta WA 6021 Salomon, ph: 211 1089 [w], or (Nicole Harrison) BIN-SW Bicycle T ourin g Group, 399 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

NORTHERN TERRITORY Stew art McGill SOUTH AUSTRALIA PO Box 3046 Cyclist Protection Association of SA Darwin NT 5794 of SA Inc, PO Box 132, St Agnes SA 5097 TASMANIA Pedal Power Tasmania Inc 102 Bathurst Street . QUEENSLAND Hobart Tas 7000 Bicycle Institute of Queensland Peda l Power Tasmania Inc 27 Ninth Avenue 87 a Bathurst Street St Lucia, Old 4067 Launceston , Tas 7250 Since publication of Freewheeling 1 in January 1978 we have had many enquiries from our readers wanting to know who we are, what our basic philosophy is and what we plan to do in t he future. So , to briefly explain : Freewhee ling Freewheeling Australia Publ ications was set up by a sma ll group of people actively involved with the Bicycle Inst itute of NSW . We felt t hat there was a need to offer a publication on a natio-nal basis which would spread good information and so bring together all Australians who share an interest in bicy cling as a means of transport and recreati'on . We chose to produce a quality quarterly magazine of information and record called Freewheeling Australia. With this magazine we wan t to keep Australia informed as to what's happening about us both here and elsewhere on the planet we share, as bicyclisation meets the energy crunch head on. There is no doubt that, within t he life span of th is magazine, we will see profound changes occurring to our ways of life as t he oil wells ru n dry. In all ages t here are t hose who must look into the future with their feet firmly in the prese nt. What we fear is that t he violence of motorised transport which kills, maims and pollutes, w ill gi ve way t o greater violence. We fee l t hat by acting now, by seeki ng rea l and non violent alternatives t o our present modes of transport we can bring about the social acceptance necessa ry to ensure mobility and peace CONTENTS NUMBER 2 (1978) for all. In short, bicyclisation is non violent soc ial change for a world caught up in changes brought about by dimin­ ishing energ y supplies. You wi ll hea r more as issues come L ETTER S 2 about bicycles and energy. Meanwhile cyclists and those of us who venture onto the streets of ou r urbanised country need to surv ive and ARTICLES maintain ourselves. We hope to inform readers about all T H E GEE LONG BI KE PLAN 5 aspects of bicycle safety and maintenance as we ll as encourage discussion about these and other issues wh ich BICYC LES, ENERGY A ND EOU1TY 12 are vital for the urban cyclist s dai ly survival. Freewheeling is a forum for discussion on issues fa cing t he modern US L EGISLATES ON BICYC LES 14 cyclist, prod uced and distributed by cyclists themse lves. WOM EN NE ED BICYC LES 16 There has been a resurgence of interest in the bicycle in LI KE F ISH NEED WA T ER most western countries of lat e. Much of this has come about as a way out of in creasi ng bad hea lth and trans­ BICYCLES AN D SAFETY 18 portation boredom. Bi cycle touring and recreationa l urban cycling have become popular with la rge numbers of people in the USA and the same is underway here. We hope to BICYCLE TOURING offer advice and informat ion for those who enjoy the TH E BORDER RAN GES FROM A BICYCLE wonderfu l feeling of hea ring only t he sounds t he w ind and 20 tyres make on a qu iet road. Do it yourself articles w ill TRAVELLI NG POETRY 26 al so appear in future issues t o help you help yourse lf an d make or build items of equipment and do your own repa ir­ TOUR ING IN WESTERN EUROPE 27 work, as we ll as survive a wet ride. A RMI DALE TO U RUNGA 28 Freewheel ing Australia Publications is a non profit publi sher. With the money raised from the sale of Free­ FIRST AID K ITS 31 wheeling Magazine (when there is a surplus) we hope to publish books and gu ides to further in form all cyclist s. WET AND COLD CON DITIONS 32 We hope in this way to influence the flow of information in favour of quality and away from crass materialism . We DO IT YOURSELF have a long way to go and welcome your he lp, advice, and comments. HOW TO MAKE Y OUR CAR INTO 34 A BICYCLE TRANSPORTER FREEWHEELING 2 PRODUCTION BUI L D Y OU R OWN K IDDI E SEAT 35 Layout: Jennie Doyle, Jenny Coopes, Netta Perrett, Pat Fiske, Gean Melone, Warren Salomon. RESOURCE MATERIALS Typesetting : Propaganda~ 660 0037. PU SH ON 36 Printed by: Thumbprint, 5 Knox Street, Chippendale LOOK OUT! HERE COMES SPROC KET MAN 38 NSW 2008. Telephone [02] 211 1089. Published by: Freewheeling Australia Publications, PO Box 57, Broadway NSW 2007. * Recommended retai l price in Australia. T his publication is reg ist ered for posting Category B. Next issue due : Winter 1978. Cover: O n the Sydney Harbour Bridge Cycleway. Phot o Nigel Jenkins. excellent production. We note you hav1:: Dear Freewheeling included our shop in the Bike Shop I thought I would write so that you could Directory but we have found a couple gauge at least one 'outsiders' reaction to of misprints. your new magazine. 1 Our phone numbers are either 29 1278 Firstly, I should say that I thought it or 29 4608. was a great magazine, good information 2 Our street number if 75 (not 25). and well produced. There are quite a few 3 Our suburb could best be identified good ideas there, and I believe that every as City or Sydney (not Wynyard). effort should be made to circulate the 4 We specialise not only in accessories magazine nationally. but have a large range of cycles for all A major complaint I have is the list ages, particularly touring cycles. of bike shops for the Sydney area. I Regards, believe the aim of the magazine is to assist the cyclist as well as provide infor­ Tony Cook mation. I believe it would have been Clarence Street Cyclery better to list those known to be good (or cheap) and just add on as people give more information about their own preferred cycle shops. Dear Freewheeling I am bringing this up because the two· Your article on Bicycle Safety by Charles cycle shops that I would go to are not Coin is a good idea but a few points in listed, while one shop that you listed it need explaining please. has an established local reputation as The stopping distances for alloy and a 'butcher'. My own local bike shop that steel rims in dry and wet weather are I go to is 'Bazza and Tony's' cycle shop in my steel rims, stopping power or no confusing. Page 12, col 2, last paragraph Gymea. Not only is he (Bazza Synold) a stopping power. surely should have 1 O' = 3 m, not 2 and good repairsperson and gives free after­ Thirdly, I find that the comment of 17-20' = 5-6 m, not cm. sales services, but he will put himself the leather padded rib type of helmet But more obscurely, on page 11, out to obtain anything requested by the being 'virtually useless' a bit biased. col 1, please clarify the wet braking customer. He is one of the few people I Hoping to hear from you. distance for alloy rims - 'normal dry know who exists for the customer, not David Cholson distance plus the circumference of the for the cycle companies. wheel'? This sounds too mystical and The point I'm trying to make is that The listing of bike shops was done as a highly understated in the light of the if you give a directory of cycle shops in service, and the method of research was reasonable figures quoted above, ie twice your magazine, people are going to trust done by the Yellow Pages. We realise dry weather distance. the opinion of the magazine. that this method is imperfect due to the Also, I think the writer is unfairly The other point that I just wanted to fact that dogmatic about touring brake levers on make is the extreme attitude expressed 1 some bike shops have no 'phone nor page 12, under Brakes. To justify his on the article 'Bicycle Safety and You'. are they interested in listing in the condemnation I'd like the writer to Charles Coin's comments were generally book,and explain this 'feel' which is so desirable quite useful and I suppose that to the 2 due to the changing nature of bike and to suggest how the 'feel' is used to cyclist who is not well informed the shops some give better service than prevent wheel locking or whatever. I article was helpful. However, if I had just others. think motorcycle braking has a useful bought a $200 push bike after saving up We are hoping to continually update parallel: eg 'On a flat safe area and for a year and read the article I would be our list of shops and to include a list of dressed protectively, the rider should just about ready to cry. Having centre­ shops in other states in future issues. practice braking as hard as possible, pul I brakes, I would feel that I. didn't Below find an addition to the cycle shop beginning at slow speeds, using one brake have good brakes because they weren't list of las"t issue. at a time. The speed can be increased the sidepulls. What was not mentioned was The Editors second brake added and different ground that if they weren't made precisely, side­ surfaces used, to develop a feel for the pulls aren't worth having. And to have Bikeshops Not in Freewheeling No 1 hardest safe application possible. precise sidepulls it's going to cost from Bazza & Toni, Shop 3, Tathra Place, Finally, do the alloy figures assume $35 on. Who said cycling wasn't for the Gymea. 8-6 Mon-Sat; 10-12 Sun; smooth or knurled surfaces? idle rich? Hire and General. A very useful article otherwise and Dave's Place very enjoyable issue overall. Moving along ... the comment about Hornsby Cycle and Sport Store, Push on, 'touring levers' (as grossly dangerous and 189 Pacific Highway, Hornsby. George Barnes ' .. . if owning a bicycle with these then Phone 4 73 738 please remove them') is a bit extreme I Narrabeen Cycle Centre felt. After all, instead of outright con­ South Hurstville, 789 King Georges Rd, The wet braking distance for alloy rims demning them, why not advise that these South Hurstville. Phone 547 1391. was expressed as - 'normal dry distance levers are only for slowing down. They Hours 8-5.30 Mon-Fri; 8-12 Sat. plus the circumference of the wheel'. were never designed to completely stop a General The figures provided later show that for pushbike anyway. Leave it up to the Waitara Sport Store, 12 Waitara Avenue, alloy rims the difference between the individual to decide whether they want Waitara. Phone 482 373. wet and dry distances is 7 ft which them or not. happens to be the circumference of a Another 'safety' idea I found a bit normal 27" wheel. The mechanism that is strong was the advice that everyone Dear Freewheeling known by experience and substantiat~d should get alloy rims. Being a tourer, if · We recently received copies of your new by t he figures is that on the first appli­ I took this advice I'd be getting a new magazine Freewheeling, Summer 1977-78 cation of the brakes the rims are wiped set of rims every month. TII stick to and wish to congratulate you on an of water and on the second revolution 2 Freewheeling the normal braking commences. Steel rims are much more difficult to wipe and hence have greater braking distances. ... Wemma.nn .,,..,,..,,.,,. ''500 11 For those with a non-scientific bent I .... will first describe 'feel' as being the ...... V ..--- .,.... •·· • ll____.... nwersal , degree of feedback from the brake pads JO -~·-•··· •···•···~ Shi.mane on the rim to the hand via the whole ...~•--"'... "Dvt'Q.-Ace'' braking mechanism. For those with a ),•'.'.':··· scientific/engineering leaning the feel can .~.. •• be expressed by a stress/strain curve as in ,t fig 1. These are preliminary results only ,..,,: using the apparatus illustrated in fig 2. ,. The brakes tested were all in fairly new .. , condition. All of the brakes tested were· • I // Lever Pressure of the sidepull variety, nevertheless it (Kq1 can be 'seen that Weinmann 500' brakes /,' Fig 1: Right 1 :11 3 't 5 6 7 8 9 are quite distinctly more 'spongey' han Fig 2: Below l the rest. It must also be noted that the lower the brake blocks are placed then the greater the 'spongeyness'. I hope to produce better results later. I would dispute the parallel drawn between motorcycle braking and bicycle braking. The motorcycle has a much lower centre of gravity and I have never heard of a motorcyclist turning their bike over the front wheel under normal conditions. Regarding knurled or smooth rims it has been found, after experimentation · by Weinmann, that smooth rims were superior and Weinmann are now using this fact in the marketing of their new range of rims. Chas Coin : karrimor DVENTURE WHEELING

There's nothing quite so en joyable as touring by bicycle, providing that the mac hine and its equ ipment are ta il ored to your personal needs. If they are not, riding will be mu ch less eas y and carefree than it should be, detracting from the sh eer fu n and pleasure of whee ling independently and contented ly along. Choose wi th ca re. Of course, cycling is hea lthy, economica l, environmenta ll y des irab le, instructive, enjoyable and many other good things. They are all quite incidental though rea l attributes. The main thing is that it provides a complete release from t ension, is good fun, and engende rs a philosophy of li fe which is tolerant, t akes things as they come, and generall y provides exactly the antidote t o modernity which many seek - and increas in g numbers find - on a bicycle, of all things! a complete range of bags and racks to carry the load At your local bike shop

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4 Freewheeling ., Geelong Bike Plan At last recognition for cyclists

. -· .. < ...... ·

..., .. _ ,-.;.. .· . Introduction and the environment. While the cyclist's fundamental need is for In September 1976, the Victorian State Cabinet approved the a safer movement system measures cannot be introduced that are conduct of the Geelong Bikeplan study. detrimental to the safety of other road users, such as pedestrians The main objective of the pilot study was to determine how and motorists. Compatability and equity are essential. the goals of increased bicycle safety and use could be achieved Bike planning proposals must be developed on a thorough and in a major urban area prior to implementation in Melbourne and rationak basis. Realistic and effective plans require a solid foun­ other Victorian provincial cities. dation of facts about existing and future demand, the real needs The findings, results and recommendations of this study are of bicycle riders and what they will and will not use . Motorists' contained in this report. The proposals for Geelong now warrant preconceptions of cyclists' needs must be treated with caution. the commitment of the State Government to the immediate Victoria (as a state) and Geelong (as a major provincial centre) implementation of the. plan as a whole throughout the Geelong cannot afford to provide facilities that will not give the public urban area. an adequate return on their investment. The bicycle planning Within 12 months of implementation in Geelong, safety objectives of safety and use, together with efficiency, mobility education trials in primary and secondary schools would be and pleasure must be satisfied whilst providing a plan that is low complete, monitored, and ready for wider use. The enforcement in cost, flexible and economical. program would be under way and evaluated to ensure that The misconception that total physical separation of bicycles continuing programs are of maximum benefit to all road users from motor cars is an absolute necessity to ensure rider safety as well as to increase cycle safety. Engineering improvements, and accessibility, is supported by very few bicycle riders. both on and off the road, will be advanced to such a stage that Attempts to remove the cyclist from the vast network of roads standards and requirements of bicycle . facilities will be further that are built and maintained to provide direct access to all tested 'on the ground'. destinations are subject to growing criticism. To believe that The results of this study show how to provide for safer cycling there is .enough money, 'will ' or public support to warrant intro­ in existing cities similar to Geelong and Melbourne. The report duction of what amounts to a complete network of (albeit describes the 4 E's program approach - Engineering, Education, narrow) bicycle freeways, involving land acquisitions and Enforcement and Encouragement - and explains why it is the property demolition in the existing urban areas of Geelong and way for bicycle planning to proceed. These programs, together Melbourne, is obviously unrealistic. with the planning procedures developed so far, are models for Even if such networks were attempted, analysis of cyclists' bicyc:;le planning and implementation throughout Victoria, and requirements shows that bicycle riders themselves would still use particularly in Melbourne, where the problems of scale and cost the existing roads for most of their journeys. Cycling from home are so much greater. to a friend's home, to a swimming pool, to school, to shops or to work, is generally most directly catered for by roads. The Need for a Bikeplan Reality must be faced. It is simply not possible to create In recent years the use of the bicycle has increased spectacularly. comprehensive, separate bikeway systems to any significant Increasing costs of car ownership and transport, the desire for extent in most of the existing major urban areas such as Geelong improved physical health, interest in recreation, and growing and Melbourne. concern regarding the conservation of liquid fuels, suggest that Road space is a high cost utility, maintained at ever-increasing the bicycle's role will continue to grow. costs. It is there, in place, ready to serve a transportation purpose Bicycle sales in Victoria have increased nearly sixfold in the for commuters, recreation riders and school children alike. Com­ last 10 years. The estimated current bicycle use in Geelong and bined with sensitive and appropriately placed off-road paths Victoria is 15% of the population; that of some overseas countries along rivers, creeks, waterfronts and open spaces, together with approaches 60%, whilst in the United States 43% of the popu­ short-cut paths to schools and other short connec.ting links, a lation rides a bicycle. practical system is attainable at low cost, on a flexible demand­ Associated with the use of the bicycle in Victoria has been an based approach to bicycle planning. unacceptably high rate of bicycle accidents. The bicycle road In new urban areas, provision for bicycles can be made at the toll in 1975 was 605 cyclist casualties including 16 killed. In planning stage. Sufficient width can be provided in the kerbside 1976 it was 723 casualties with 37 cyclists kiiled. The per capita lane for bicycle riding on main roads or a separate path can be rate of accidents to bicycle users in Victoria is about 3 times planned within the road reserve. In new neighbourhood design, that of the United States, whilst the majority of these accidents where open space spines link residential areas to schools, shops are suffered by school-age children. and community facilities, bicycle paths can be easily incorporated Some 72% of bicycle accidents occur to the 7-17 year age at the planning stage (eg Canberra and Crestwood in Perth). group, whilst. the 12-14 year age group alone accounts for around But for the long-distance commuter trips and for the majority 33% of the total accidents repbrted. These accidents were largely of trips in the existing urban areas, integration of the bicycle initiated by the cyclist. In 1975 the cause of some 70% of all into the traffic stream is the only legitimate and logical answer Victorian fatal bicycle accidents and 65% of all Geelong bicycle - an answer that is supported by the majority of bicycle riders accidents could be attributed to the cyclist. . themselves. · There is thus an urgent need to provide an overall plan for ttie The Geelong Bikeplan as outlined in this report, achieves all current and growing use of bicycles to ensure that more cycling these requirements. It provides for the increasing use of bicycles . also means safer cycling. · by making their use safer. It integrates the bicycle into the In Geelong (like other major urban areas) there is a lack of existing road system, whilst setting guidelines for providirig both on and off the road facilities. Despite a cyclist population of for separated systems in newly developing areas. It recommends nearly 20 000 in Geelong, use of bicycles has been ignored in solutions to the problems of today's bicycle riders, whilst pro­ planning over the pc1st decades. This neglect has coincided with a viding a plan for the cyclist of tomorrow. The proposed solutions period of steadily increasing motor traffic volumes and congestion. are economic and can be implemented in stages. Recent bicycle planning has been hampered by overseas prac­ The plan itself is based on the '4 E's' : Engineering, Education, tices of planning to spend large sums of money on construction Enforcement and Encouragement. This plan represents a compre­ of bicycle lanes and paths, without adequate information on the hensive four-pronged attack on the problems of cycle safety 'real' requirements of the bicycle rider. Basic transportation and use. concepts were often forgotten in· the attempt to. get the bicycle off the road and out of the way of the car driver. Investigations for a Bikeplan Similarly, the bicycle can not, however, be considered· the Extensive survey work was carried out in Geelong. The objectives panacea to all problems of transportation, energy conser~ation were to ascertain the real needs and requirements of cyclists and 6 Freewheeling their patterns of movement; to discover people's attitude to • School bike paths alone could not significantly reduce the cycling, the size and nature of the safety problem, to record accident problem. Surveys show that whilst 64% of secondary deficiencies and opportunities in the existing road system, and students ride bicycles, at present only 27% of all students, on to indicate the most appropriate techniques of meeting the average, ride to school each day in Geelong, and would therefore needs of cyclists. benefit from a school bike path. Even if a school was provided with several bike paths in the future then these paths would Surveys only provide for at most 10% of the total bicycle use by pupils at • Questionnaire surveys of 15 000 secondary students and route that school. surveys of 7 000 students. • The cycling population is predominantly young, ie about 90% • Surveys of 53 primary schools. of bicycle use in Geelong is by people under 18 years of age • Questionnaire survey (newspaper supplement) of adult cyclists with the majority of these being under 15 years of age. and non-cyclists throughout Geelong. • The greatest potential for an increase in bicycle use is with • Surveys of businesses, industries, recreational and shopping the adults and school children over the age of 15 years. centres. • Cyclists use and favour main roads which are direct, have a • Field counts of bicycles at 150 locations. good surface condition for cycling, have priority at intersections, • Inventory of all roads in the Study Area regarding cycltng are often signalised and contain most destination land uses. suitability. Research Cycle Safety • Accident analysis. • Young cyclists initiate too many accidents. For cyclists up to • Review of Australian and overseas reports and data. 17 years of age 71 % of accidents are attributed to errors by the bicycle rider. When considering cyclists up to 17 years of age Liaison involved in fatal car accidents in Victoria, 90% of these were • Formation of Bike Riders' Advisory Committee. initiated by the cyclists. • Specialist technical advisors. • Most bicycle accidents involve children. Cyclists under 17 years of age account for 75% of all reported bicycle accidents. Public Involvement Only one-third of accidents involving cyclists aged 7-17 years • Newspaper survey, public exhibition, council consideration, occur during the weekday hours of 8-9 am and 3-5 pm. public seminar, implementation projects. • Accidents occur everywhere: some 60% occur at intersections. For the under 18s one-third of their midblock accidents occurred Principles and Findings of the Geelong Bikeplan on safe 'residential' streets. About 42% of all accidents involve The investigations and the evaluation of bicycle riders' needs right-angled collisons and 69% of right-angled collisions occur at form the basis of the bikeplan principles: uncontrolled intersections. • Accident severity is greatest at night. On a wet night, a cyclist Cycle Use is 50 times more likely to receive .a fatal injury in an accident • Every street is a cycle street: bicycles are ridden everywhere. than on a dry day. Less than 40% of the bicycles involved in The origins and destination~ of the bicycle trips for children and accidents at night were known to have carried some form of adults are spread over Geelong. Surveys show that the journey to lighting. and from school by bicycle is only 20% of the total use. The Geelong Bike Plan Cyclists' Needs • Cyclists' main concerns are for: control of intersections, a smooth clean riding surface, adequate kerbside lane width, short­ cut paths, recreational paths, secure parking facilities and improved car driver behaviour. • For Geelong's adult cyclists improved safety on main roads and at intersections is required as approximately 80% of adult cycling is carried out on these roads. Main roads are direct, have priority and controlled intersections, are well maintained, and contain most of the cyclist's destinations. • Young cyclists (and anxious parents) want residential streets free from excessive through-traffic and with low vehicle speeds and safe routes to school. Optional alternative routes away from main roads are also required.

Key Issues in Bicycle Planning • Complete off-road bikeway networks are not practicable in existing urban areas such as Geelong and Melbourne. • The bike lane (identified by either line marking or a kerb) is not needed where there is sufficient width on the road; where the road is narrow, heavily trafficked and hazardous, it cannot be provided. The signed bike route rarely serves a useful function. • The bike path should be incorporated in the planning of new urban areas. In existing urban areas its role is limited to re­ creational routes and short link paths to schools and businesses where opportunities exist through open space areas or in the outer suburban fringe. • Cycling on footpaths should only be permitted (by legislation and signing·) at specific locations such as squeeze points and areas of minimum pedestrian use. The law prohibiting footpath riding needs to be enforced selectively and fairly, to permit responsible use of short lengths of path while penalising cyclists who endanger pedestrians. Freewheeling 7 ACTION PLAN NODAL ACTION * ELIMINATE SQUEEZE POINT X RESURFACE a POSSIBLY MODIFY RAIL CROSSING

• INTRODUCE SIGNAL CONTROL OR CROSSING

Q MODIFY EXISTING TRAFFIC SIGNALS

• IMPROVE: SAFETY OF INTERSECTION ROUTE ACTION

@~(t BUILD BIKc PATH

CCC CATEGORY I ROAD ACTION

--- CATEGORY 2 ROAD ACTION

••• CATEGORY 3 ROAD ACTION

- - -CATEGORY 4 ROAD ACTION NEIGHBOURHOOD ACTION

DECLARE CYCLE PRECINCT

. :•· ... PLAN NEW AREA

The Geelong Bike Plan • It is not practical to enforce a minimum age limit for cyclists. from this a physical improvement action plan was determined Rural and outer urban area families may be severely disadvan­ that includes: taged if children were unable to cycle to school and shops. • Signalisation of dangerous intersections, elimination or avoidance of squeeze points. Summary of Principles • Improvements to main roads used extensively by bicycles: • Increased cycle use must be paralleled by increased cycle lane striping to provide a wider kerb lane width; school and .;afety. Improvement programs should concentrate initially on the pedestrian crossings; priority markings; resurfacing; increased 8-19 years age group. maintenance. • Safer cycling requires education and enforcement programs in • Off road bicycle networks in new urban areas currently under addition to engineering improvement. These programs should be rezoning and development planning. aimed at both cyclists and car drivers. · • Bike paths for recreational routes, school routes, access links, • Engineering for safer cycl ing means improving the road and as alternatives to using unsuitable arterial roads. system, not replacing it. • Parking facilities. • Engineering, education and enforcement programs need to be backed up by awareness and encouragement programs. Education Requirements Safer rider education is mainly orientated towards school students by both on and off road training courses. Programs for Geelong Bikeplan Programs adults will also be in'corporated. Requirements include: The Geelong Bikeplan proposes to achieve the goals of increased • Cycle proficiency and road safety training for primary and safety and use by the '4 E's' program. This involves four action post-primary school students. programs with the following objectives: • Establishment of cycling clubs and rider training courses for * Engineering - to provide a safer road system and improved adults. riding environment through physical improvements. • Improving bicycle standards and supporting the need for * Education - to train cyclists to ride more safely. proper equipment via school, media, professional, business * Enforcement - to improve road behaviour of motor vehicle and retailer programs. drivers and cyclists. • Education of professional planners and engineers to include * Encouragement - to promote awareness of improved facilities, bicycle requirements in the planning of new areas, maintenance safety, education and enforcement programs and the benefits and construction programs. of cycling. Enforcement Requirements Geelong Bikeplan in Action Neither adults nor children, motorists nor cyclists, will consis­ tently obey road rules without proper instruction and frequent Engineering Requirements reminders. Enforcement requirements include: A strategy plan was developed for the Geelong urban area and • Establishment of a special police safety team in Geelong (two 8 Freewheeling BICYCLE SAFETY EDUCATION - RELATIONSHIP . BETWEEN PROGRAMS a TARGET GROUPS FIG. 6.1

MEDIA PROGRAMS ELECTRONIC IIEllA II PRINTE D MEDIA ,/

COMPftE>ENSIVE SCHOOL BICYCLE SAFETY RECREATION~ 6 EDUCATION PROGRAM PROGRAMS /'ON ROAD /4 OFF ROAD PRIMARY COUISES '" PEDAL CLUBS '" CLASSROOM SAFETY TALKS . LAW ENFORCEMENT NEIGHBOLflHOOO OFF ROAD TRAFl'lC SCHOOLS . RllES OFF ROAD - PROGRAMS CIRCUTS SHORT ON · ROAD INSTRUCTION a IIICYCI.E MAINTENANCE INCLUDES REGULAR BICYCLE TOl-"IST IIIDES 1H COUNTRY . EDUCATIONALLY • f!ELATED l~~,';:-,. INSPECTIONS AT SCHOOLS sue..ECTS. '"ADY'£N TIJIII£ INTEGRAITD 0 WARNING OR ARREST OF BAO SAFETY ~~.te1'VITl[S DRIVERS a RIDEIIS . WARNING IIISTRUCTION a ,,---SE_CC>f«JAR-'-"---y---- PARENTS . REGULAR CAMMIGNS BICYCI.E MAIHTE NANCE ON IIOAD INSTRUCTION TD REMO'IE DEFECTIVE BICYCLES EDUCATIONAU. Y RE LATED FFIOIII THE ROAD . APPLICATION SUBJECTS PRE • DRIVER EDUCATION MOTOR VEttCLE DRIVING DEFENSIVE DRIVING/CYCLISTS

The Geelong Bike Plan

men plus motor cycles) to specialise in bicycle rider education reciprocal requirement of improving the car driver's attitude and and behaviour. This team to be in addition to the normal awareness towards the bicycle rider. police complement in Geelong. This integrated approach to education, enforcement and • Monitoring and enforcement of car driver and bicVcli~t's encouragement is shown in figure 6.1 . behaviour. • Enforcement of bicycle riders' rights on the road. • Bicycle related additions to car driver tests and pre-driver Implementation of the Bikeplan in Geelong education. Implementation of the bikeplan in Geelong will be staged over • Enforcement of proper bicycle equipment standards. five years. By this time safety will have improved and sufficient facilities been provided to cater for increased bicycle use. Encouragement Requirements Bike planning will not, of course, stop after five years. A Promotion programs are an integral part of the bikeplan. They continuing process of planning in new urban areas, extension will : of recreational routes, safe guarding of more commuter and • Create an awareness of and contribute towards safety education school routes, and maintenance of existing facilities will continue. programs and inform people of the physical improvements that are implemented. Financial and Management Aspects • Improve motorists' awareness of cyclists and cyclists' be­ • The bikeplan will cost $1 .6 million (1977 prices) over the first haviour. Enhance the effectiveness of enforcement programs. 5 year period with the first year requirement being $300 000. Increase recognition of bicycling benefits and stimulate Assessment of the economic viability shows the benefit/cost bicycle use. ratio for the first five years alone is 4 to 1. If a full analysis • Encourage private institutions to provide secure parking areas period of 15 years is used then the benefit/cost ratio is 9 to 1, and changing facilities for cycl ists. showing that the Geelon·g Bikeplan is a sound community Detailed analysis of accident statistics showed that the acci­ investment. dents that were occurring could not be solved by engineering • Management and co-ordination of the implementation of the means. The accidents were often initiated by cyclists' carelessness bikeplan is to be controlled by a Geelong sub-committee of in regard to riding habits, their knowledge or use of the rules of the State Bicycle Committee. This committee to comprise the road, and the safety standard of their machines. Similarly, members of local councils, Road Traffic and Safety Authority, many problems also seemed to be contributed to by the motorist's Geelong Regional Commission, Police Department, Education ignorance of the cyclists' rights and his vulnerability. Department, Country Roads Board, Department of Youth, These problems are largely behavioural, and large expenditures Sport and Recreation, and the Ministry of Transport. The of moneys on physical improvement will do little to correct or provision for a secretariat to the committee to administer and improve these behavioural problems. Education and enforcement control the implementation of the bikeplan is included in the measures are needed. That is, the need to improve rider ability, total costs. road sense and conformity to the road laws, together with the • The bikeplan is to be funded from a State Bicycle Fund (see Freewheeling 9 Me!bourne Road 1926 The Geelong Bike Plan

next section). Contributing funds will also be required from The issues are - accidents (large proportion of accidents to involved authorities on a proportionate basis to be determined. bicycle riders occur on residential streets), effect on vehicle speed • Implementation plans for the total program would be fully (85th· percentile vehicle speed on many residential streets around developed by the second year. Engineering works would 48 kmh now), through traffic using some residential streets comprise the bulk of expenditure in the first year. (reduction in vehicle speed will remove some of this traffic), traffic noise (reduction in vehicle speed will reduce noise impact Implementation Proposals for the First Financial Year (1978-79) in residential areas), stopping distance of vehicles (reduction in • Monitoring of 40 kmh trial area and bike paths in Corio, Lara vehicle speed! will reduce stopping distance necessary for vehicles) , and Grovedale areas. accident rate and severity (reduction in vehicle speed reduces • Trial education programs in approximately five secondary and accident severity and frequency and reduces speed difference primary schools, monitoring and revision of programs. between vehicles, bikes and pedestrians), vehicle operating costs • Establishment of police safety team. (reduction in vehicle speed does not effect vehicle operating • Implementation of top priority main road improvements, costs and lower acceleration and de-acceleration requirements intersection improvement and off-main road bike paths. actually result in cost savings), and overall cost savings induced by Network planning in new urban areas. 40 kmh (estimated accident casualty rate reduction of a 40 kmh • Promotion programs aimed at increased community and car speed limit on residential streets combined with STATCON and driver awareness of cyclists' problems and rights and the METCON systems is about 34%). Geelong Bikeplan programs.

Trials of Bicycle Facilities in Geelong (1977) Post 1977: Geelong-Melbourne-Victoria In July 1977 a 40 kmh speed limit trial in residential streets was commenced over a 14 square kilometre urban area of Corio. The Relevance of the Geelong Bikeplan to Melbourne results of this trial will not be available until the end of 1978 as a The proposals put forward by the Geelong study and in particular 12 month test period is required by the Road Traffic & Safety the 4 Es approach, will apply in principle to Melbourne. Authority who are carrying out the assessment. Education, enforcement and encouragement requ irements will In the Shire of Corio and the City of South Barwon, six be very similar. The engineering aspect will have to be tailored to kilometres of bicycle path have been constructed of varying specific local conditions to take account of: the greater size of widths and construction standards. Similarly the full results of Melbourne; the vast network of railways and consequently the the usage of these bicycle paths will not be available until late use of dual mode travel; the use of sub-arterial roads as the 'main 1978 so that both summer' and winter use can be monitored. roads' for cyclists; and the higher levels of congestion and traffic. 10 Freewheeling Co-ordi{lation ·of Bicycle Planning in Melbourne & Victoria Geelong Bikeplan Recommendations The formation of a Joint Bicycle Planning Group (JBPG) is It is recommended that Cabinet agree that: recommended. The membership of this group to consist of full­ 1 The Geelong Bikeplan pilot project as detailed in the attached time representatives from the following : submission, and the Geelong Bikeplan study report, be·imple­ Road Traffic and Safety Authority mented throughout the urban area of Geelong, to allow Country Roads Board further evaluation of proposed programs 'on the ground' such Education Department that they may be progressively evaluated, modified and Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works optimised prior to implementation in other major urban areas. This JBPG would be the working group for bicycle planning 2 The continued implementation of the Geelong Bikeplan pilot in Melbourne. It would also co-ordinate the implementation of project be controlled and evaluated by a sub-committee of the future works. It could take advantage of existing administrative State Bicycle Committee consisting of local representatives arrangements for funding and would have the ability to be from the Ministry of Transport, Road Traffic and Safety formed from seconded staff (from parent organisations). The Authority, Country Roads Board, Police Department, Geelong responsibility for the JBPG would be with the Minister of Regional Commission, Department of Youth, Sport and Transport. The overall broad policy direction to the JBPG -on Recreation and the municipalities under the direction of the behalf of the Minister would be by the State Bicycle Committee. Minister of Transport. The State Bicycle Committee would also be responsible to the 3 A State Bicycle Fund be established under the control of the Minister of Transport, so that direction and control would be Minister of Transport. This Fund to be a special Departmental with one ministry. The new State Bicycle Committee should Trust account initially supported by direct appropriation of consist of representation from: funds from the Victorian State Budget's Consolidated Fund. Ministry of Transport 4 This State Bicycle Fund to include provision for the first year Town and Country Planning Board costs ( 1978/79) of $300 000 for the Geelong Bikeplan project, Country Roads Board and to budget for the total five year program of $1 600 000. Youth-, Sport and Recreation 5 The Chief Secretary be requested to provide a detailed Road Traffic and Safety Authority evaluation of the legal implications and field results of the Edu_cation Department current 40 kmh speed limit trial on residential street in Corio, Melbourne ·and Metropolitan Board of Works Geelong after the trial has been under way for 12 months. Police Department It is further recommended that Cabinet: Bicycle Institute of Victoria 1 Issue a policy statement that'the organisations responsible for Municipal ities traffic and transport planning and provision of transport For provincial cities direction and control would be by a local services be directed to recognise the bicycle as a significant sub-committee of the State Bicycle Committee with the planning mode of transport, and to make appropriate provision for group being comprised of representatives from the local munici­ / same in current and future transport and planning proposals. palities and planning authorites. 2 Initiate the establishment of a Joint Bicycle Planning Group In regard to timing, it would be practical to commence pre­ under the Minister of Transport for the purpose of planning planning in Melbourne in 1978, detailed planning in the first and co-ordinating works within the state. This group to consist region by 1979, with implementation commencing in that region of fulltime representatives from the following departments: by 1980. For programs that require implementation on a city­ Road Traffic and Safety Authority wide basis these could be implemented by 1980. Such a program Country Roads Board wold allow the results of the Geelong pilot project to be used in Education Department the Melbourne planning and implementation. Melbourne Metropolitan Board of Works. 3 Restructure the State Bicycle Committee under the Minister of Transport to provide overall broad policy direction on his State Bicycle Fund behalf to the Joint Bicycle Planning Group. This committee Implementation of bicycle programs will require significant to basically consist of representatives from the following government funding. departments: To facilitate this it is proposed to set up a special Depart­ Minis.try of Transport mental Trust Fund (the State Bicycle Fund) under the Minister Country Roads Board of Transport. Special funds may need to be initially appropriated Road Traffic and Safety Authority to this State Bicycle Fund directly from the State Budget's Melbourne Metropolitan Board of Works Consolidated Fund. Youth, Sport and Recreation Contributing funds from involved authorities in bicycle Education Department programs will be required. Investigation of the proportionate Police Department basis of cost sharing would be one of the tasks of the restructured Bicycle Institute of Victoria State Bicycle Committee after government approval to proceed Town and Country Planning Board with the Geelong Bikeplan. Local Government Engineers Associatiori 4 Request the Minister of Transport to initiate the preparation of a strategy plan for Melbourne based on the findings and Subjects for Further Investigation conclusions of the Geelong Bikeplan. This plan to be the basis Several aspects still require further investigation, these include: of a detailed program and budget for submission to Cabinet • The costs/ benefits/disadvantages of bicycle registration and prior to implementation. bicycle rider licensing systems together with the enforcement 5 Request the Minister of Transport to determine appropriate aspects for bicycle rider offenders. cost-sharing arrangements- with authorities involved in the • Methods of separately funding the State Bicycle Fund. provision of bicycle facilities and programs. • Use of freeway reservations by cyclists. • The impact of Mopeds on bicycle facilities. This plan was approved and funded Monday, February 27, 1978. • Further research into the key variables that influence cycle flows, refinement of bicycle planning standards and improved collection and presentation of cycle accident data. Principal work carried out by Geelong Regional Commission. • The practicality of bicycle safety clothing, particularly com­ The full report costs $20 and is available from the Department pulsory crash helmet legislation. of Youth, Sport and Recreation, Melbourne, Victoria. Freewheeling 11 .. - . I • ,. ;,

··- ·. . ~ . ' . . .. , ., . .. ' . ' '

.... '

12 Freewheeling extract from 'Er1ergy & Equity' by Ivan Illich

A century ago, the ball-bearing was developing European capitalism, laid the Bicycles let people move with greater invented. It reduced the coefficient of solid foundations for a globe-spanning speed without taking up significant friction by a factor of a thousand. By culture and market. amounts of scarce space, energy or time. _ applying a well -calibrated ball-bearing The invention of the ball-bearing They can spend fewer hours on each mile between two neolithic mil Istones, a signal led a fourth revolution. It created and still travel more miles in a year. They person could now grind in a day what an option between more freedom in can get the benefit of technological took their ancestors a week. The ball­ equity and more speed. The bearing is an breakthroughs without putting undue bearing also made possible the bicycle, equally fundamental ingredient of two claims on the schedules, energy or space allowing the wheel - probably the last of new types of locomotion, respectively of others. They become masters of their the great neolithic inventions - finally to symbolised by the bicycle and the car. own rnovements without blocking those become useful for self-powered mobility. The bicycle lifted peoples' automobility of their fellows. Their new tool creates A person, unaided by any tool, gets into a new order, beyond which progress only those demands which it can also around quite efficiently. They carry one is theoretically not possible. In contrast, satisfy. Every increase in motorised speed gram of their weight over a kilometre in the accelerating individual capsule en­ creates new demands on space and time. ten minutes by expending 0.75 calories. abled societies to engage in a ritual of The use of the bicycle is self-limiting. It People on their feet are thermodynami­ progressively paralysing speed. allows people to create a new relationship between their lifespace and their lifetime, cally more efficient than any motorised The monopoly of a ritual application between their territory and the pulse of vehicle and most animals. For our weight, over a potentially useful device is nothing their being, without destroying their we perform more work in locomotion new. Thous·ands of years ago, the wheel inherited balance. The advantages of than rats or oxen, less than horses or took the load off the carrier-slave, but it sturgeon. At this rate of efficiency people did so only on the Eurasian landmass. In modern self-powered traffic are obvious, settled the world and made its history. Mexico, the wheel was well-known, but and ignored. That better traffic runs At this rate peasant societies spend less never applied to transport. It served faster is asserted, but never proved. than five per cent and nomads less than exclusively for the construction of Before they ask people to pay for it, eight per cent of their respective social carriages for toy gods. The taboo on those who propose acceleration should time budgets outside the home or the wheelbarrows in America before Cortes try to display the evidence for their claim. encampment. A person on a bicycle can is no more puzzling · than the taboo on A grizzly contest between bicycles and go three or four times faster than the bicycles in modern traffic. motors has just come to an end. In Viet­ pedestrian, but uses five times less energy It is by no means necessary that the nam, a hyperindustrialised army tried to in the process, carrying one gram of body invention of the ball-bearing continue to conquer, but could not overcome, a weight over a kilometre of flat road at an serve the increase of energy use, and people organised around bicycle speed. expense of only 0.15 calories. The thereby produce time scarcity, space The lesson should be clear. High energy bicycle is the perfect transducer to match consumption and class privilege. If the armies can annihilate people - both a person's metabolic energy to the new order of self-powered mobility those they defend and those against impedance of locomotion. Equipped with offered by the bicycle were protected whor:1 they are launched, but they are of this tool, people outstrip the efficiency of against devaluation, paralysis and risk very limited use to a people which not only all . machines, bu( all other to the limbs of the rider, it would be defends itself. It remains to be seen if the animals as well. possible to guarantee optimal shared Vietnamese will apply what they learned mobility to all people and put an end to in war to an economy of peace, if they The invention of the ball-bearing, the the imposition of maximum privilege and will be willing to protect the values that ·tangent-spoked wheel and the pneumatic exploitation. It would be possible to made their victory possible. The dismal tyre taken together can be compared to control the patterns of urbanisation if the likelihood is that the victors, for the sake only three other events in the history of organisation of space were constrained by of industrial progress and increased transportati\:>n. The invention of the the power people have to move through it. energy consumption, will tend to defeat wheel at the dawn of civilisation took the Bicycles are not only thermodyna­ themselves by destroying that structure load off peoples' backs and put it onto mically efficient; they are also cheap. of equity, rationality and autonomy into the barrow. The invention and simul­ With a much lower salary, the Chinese which American bombers had forced taneous application, during the European acquired a durable bicycle in a fraction of them by depriving them of fuels, motors Middle Ages, of stirrup, shoulder harness the working hours an American devotes and roads. and horseshoe increased the thermo­ to the purchase of. an obsolescent car. dynamic efficiency of the horse by a The cost of public utilities needed to The bicycle also uses little space. factor of up to five, and changed the · facilitate bicycle traffic versus the price Twelve bikes can be .parked in the place economy of medieval Europe: it made of an infrastructure tailored to high of one car, six of them can move along frequent ploughing possible and thus speeds is proportionately even less than in the space devoured by a single auto­ introduced rotation agriculture; it the price differential of the vehicles used mobile. It takes two lanes of a given size brought more distant fields into the reach in the two systems. In the bicycle system, to move 40 000 people across a bridge of the peasant, and thus permitted land­ engineered roads are necessary only at in one hour by using modern trains, four owners to move from six-family hamlets certain points of dense traffic, and people to move them on buses, 12 to move them into 100-family villages, where they could who live far from the surfaced path are in their cars, and only one lane for them live around the church, the square, the not thereby automatically isolated as to pedal across on bicycles. Of all these jail and - later - the school; it allowed they would be if they depended on cars vehicles, only the bicycle really allows the cultivation of northern soils and or trains. The bicycle has extended people to go from door to door without shifted the centre of power into cold peoples' radii without shunting them walking. Cyclists can reach new desti­ climates. The building of the first ocean­ onto roads they cannot walk. Where nations of choice without their tool going vessels by the Portuguese in the they cannot ride their bike they can creating new locations from which they fifteenth century, under the aegis of usually push them. are barred. Freewheeling 13 US.LEGISLATES ON BICYCLES

President Carter's National Energy Pro­ Both bills before Congress call for an Class 11 - (Bike Lane) -A restricted gram has finally come to rest on the expenditure of $45 million for bikeway right-of-way for the exclusive use of bicycle. Two major bills, one in the facilities. The Bicycle Manufacturer's bicycles usually designed by signs House of Representatives, one in the Association, not ones to miss out on a and pavement markings. Senate, were introduced last year to slice of the cake, requested that Congress Class 111 - (Shared Route) - A bike­ provide additional spending for bikeway make provisions for each bill to grant way designated by signs generally faci Iities. urban areas with populations of 50 000 indicating preferred routings for Senator Packwood of Oregon, who or more special funds. The BMA also bicycles. introduced the Senate Bill, noted the requested that the Federal Highway Act d Determining community plans for Federal Highway Program appropriates be amended to provide funds exclusively building bikeways during the next $41 per car, truck and bus in the US for for bikeway facilities. five years: the number of projects improving the nation's highways. On the The BMA recommendations also in­ in progress and projects planned other hand, Congress provides only cluded the following : for the future. 12½ cents per bicycle. 1 Because we need to know more about e Determining how extensively exis­ In 1976 a $6 million appropriation the state of the art of bikeways in this ting bikeways are used - and how was made by Congress for bicycle facilities. country, we propose a national study effectively they serve the recreation Over 500 applications came in response that would provide a foundation for and transportation needs of cyclists. to this appropriation. Forty one projects future growth. The study would seek f Learning more about the mainten­ received funding. to provide answers to some of the ance and care of bikeways that are This seems astounding in the face of a following questions: in existence; the manner in which recent survey conducted by the Bicycle a Developing a nationwide inventory they are maintained and steps taken Manufacturer's Association. The survey of all classes of bikeways now in to periodically improve them. found that there are: existence. g Determining the contribution exis­ • 80 million bicycles in America; b Determining the mileage of all ting bikeways are making to safety • 8 million new bicycles joined the classes of bikeways in each state, in the community; whether they traffic mix last year; perhaps broken down by major are helpful in reducing the accident • 58 million bicycles were brought cities, counties etc. rate. by Americans in the last 5 years ( 10 c Determine the most popular type h Developing a nationwide Atlas of million more than cars). of bikeways among users: bikeways - state by state - similar The survey also stated that bicycle Class I - (Bike Path) - A completely to today's motor vehicle road maps. sales will rise to 11 million by 1980 and separated right-of-way for the ex­ Determining the recreation pro­ 19.2 million by 1990. clusive use of bicycles. gramming use of bikeways - ie 14 Freewheeling Bike A Thons. 8 Support legislation proposing a study programs to encourage employees to use 2 We propose that the Land and Water of three transcontinental bicycle car pooling, van pooling, public transport, Conservation Fund be utilised to routes which the BOR previously bicycling and walking, and to promote create important bicycle connecting opposed. programs for secure bicycle storage links as follows: · 9 Finally, we propose the BOR re­ facilities and bicycle lanes. a Bike paths between parks and consider it's position on legislation it The General Services Administration recreational facilities. also opposed : a study of the 1 000 has initiated action to provide better b Bike paths between business and mile route - the Pacific Coast Bike bicycle parking facilities in federal residential areas and parks and Trail from Canada to Mexico. buildings. A feasibility study is being recreational facilities. Meanwhile, whilst the BMA is busy done by the Public Service to determine 3 It is vital for the BOR (Bureau of lobbying for bikeways in Congress, other parking needs, space available and cost on Outdoor Recreation) to develop closer plans are afoot to promote bicycle use. a nationwide scale. liaison with the Department of Trans­ The National Energy Act calls for a major A pilot program installing 20 bicycle portation's bikeway planning under study by the Secretary of Transportation lockers at various buildings has been the Federal Highway Act. on how best to stimulate increased use of initiated. 4 We would like to propose expanding the bicycle by all Americans as an energy The Department of Transport has existing bikeways in parks across the saving device. The House of Representa­ initiated new projects such as 10 regional nation. They should be build wherever tives Bill states that if 5% of commuters workshops on bicycle safety. they do not exist. now using cars switched to the bicycle, The Consumer Product Safety Com­ 5 Take immediate steps under the pro­ petrol savings would total more than 780 mission is funding 13 community groups visions of the Railroad Revitalisation million gallons. and 32 educational groups at $2 000 each Reform Act of 1976 to assure that the The Washington DC Manual on Uni­ to stimulate bicycle planning and bicycle 6 232 miles of abandoned railroad form Traffic Control Devices now includes education programs. rights-of-way are acquired for con­ a section titled 'Traffic Control for The Department of Transport has version to bicycle paths and other Bicycle Facilities'. This section deals with spent one year and $20 000 to evaluate recreational and transportation uses. bicycle use, signs, pavement markings 11 bicycle routes throughout the country. 6 We propose placing greater emphasis and signals on bikeways and highways. These programs are all initiated in on sponsoring bicycle safety programs, The MUTCD is aiming at a standardisation Washington DC, the nation's capital, such as rodeos, inspections and training on a nationwide level of bicycle controls. but will hopefully stimulate other cities in parks and playgrounds. The Environmental Protection Agency across the US to originate their own · 7 We propose considering the practicality has appointed a woman as bicycle co­ bikeways. With a little help, and money of converting existing single purpose ordinator. Her position is concerned with from 'above', the American public will foot and horseback trails to multiple providing programs dealing with bikeways, climb out of their -gas-guzzlers and onto uses which would encompass bikeways. provisions for employer participation in the seat of a bicycle.

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Freewheeling 15 Women Need Bicycles Like Fish Need Water or The Push-Bike is an Aid in Self Defence

by Juel Briggs spreads to everyday life, judgement you can be lawfully prosecuted for gets faster and better. such action. Isn't it funny, I have 5 Disrespectful drivers are wonderful never heard of a driver prosecuted for Bicycles may prevent rape in its broadest things to get rid of pent-up, male­ 'spooking' a cyclist. sense. As women some form of induced frustrations on. Practise 8 Clothes: Baggy clothes that cover me physical protection in many public places socially repressed aggressions in a con­ all up are hot but reduce crude/lewd (and private - but I won't deal with that structive manner by demonstrating to glances, comments and whistling. here), most of us have traditionally found car drivers the rights of cyclists. Catch Shorts and T-sh irt with a collar are some suitable friend or appendage for the offender at the next set of traffic best in summer, but unfortunately such situations. lights and tell them that you are activate morons in cars and on pave­ Swap the man for a bicycle, the advan­ entitled to 8 feet of road width and ments. Swear, and better still, spit. tages are numerous - normal rights of way. It usually makes I'm sure that exhaust induced phlegm 1 You are physically independent - go their eyes pop out in surprise. Be shouldn't be swallowed where it could places when and how you want. This nice and return their eyes. cause stomach cancer - so you've just leads to psychological freedom. 6 Pushbikes are nasty things to wrap got to spit it out! (A good excuse 2 Riding increases co-ordination and around the legs of an attacker. Spin it anyway.) Spitting and swearing simul­ strength. I found that what I pre­ taneously doesn't work and only viously thought were limits (especially round you in a horizontal position, or makes me choke. with stamina) were actually a low just throw it. Spokes and skins don't 9 Finally - wear a nasty, evil, hideous estimate. But this does depend a lot mix. Lock-up chains are pretty gooc grin. Artificial fangs are desirable but on the individual ; so take it easy at used this way as well. Kicking from a don't bite motorists, attackers or dogs first. moving bike is dangerous as you can with them, you may catch rabies. 3 Another thing that increases indepen­ easily lose balance. Once I tried to More seriously though; the lack of dence from males is lack of reliance whack a car with a lump of hardwood women riding bikes (either commuting upon local garage mechanic as is the I carried - the car moved away more or touring) indicates the force and case with cars. Pushbikes are simpler suddenly than expected. I ended up staying power of sexist attitudes. I than cars - even a beginner can do on the gutter. Whack-sticks are good remember at school when suddenly most common repairs. Repair work for dogs- but if you can afford to keep at about 14 all the girls stopped riding also puts you in an analytical, clear buying new pumps, then use that. their bikes. Stand outside a highschool frame of mind. 7 Some cyclists have been known to this afternoon. First comes the hordes of 4 To survive bike riding in the city pick up and crash down their bike boys on their deadly-treadlies and traffic one needs to be alert and onto cars of disrespectful drivers. walking sedately behind come the girls. defensive. Generally this attitude Certainly it shocks the driver - but It's all very sad and hard to believe. 16 Freewheeling Freewheeling 17 by Barbara Lovell Unfortunately banana seats and sissy bars make such dangerous tricks more easy to do. No one really likes to think about acci­ SAFETY Having worked in bicycle shops for dents and the possibilit'/ of injury or several years, I have had plenty of oppor­ death. Besides, it always happens to tunity to see what terrible mechanical someone else, doesn't it? It is hard to and shape many children's bikes are in. Very realise as you give your child that first common faults are: bike, or buy one yourself, that it is only second to the motor cycle in accident CYCLING • bent front forks; risk on the road. • broken cables and generally very un­ A bicycle is a remarkable machine, satisfactory handbrake systems; being a very convenient and healthy way • loose headbearings, centre bracket to travel and a lot of fun. But unfor­ bearings, and wheel cones; tunately at the present time, motor • worn cotter pins; traffic and bikes share the same road and • broken or improperly adjusted gears; a cyclist needs to take a great deal of care • bent rims and broken pedals. in order to lessen the risk of accident. Quite a few guides have been written Hi riser bars are often difficult to keep on cycling safety, but before we consider tight, in fact almost any nut and bolt such a guide it is well worth looking at that can come loose on a child's bicycle, some of the things that studies on bicycle will. Some of these problems are due to accidents have found. the design and construction of the bikes, but many are due to misuse and neglect. Bicycles and the Child Rider In this sort of shape they make very dangerous toys. The accident situation for children differs New, young cyclists need superv1s1on from that of the older rider using his or in learning to ride and care for their her bike for transport. For many children bikes. Would you ride a bike with loose the bicycle is just a toy, they may not bars, no brakes and maladjusted gears? even ride them on the road. Most children Then take care that your child is not in love bicycles, for good reason, but even this situation! away from the road accidents can easily happen. Some points to consider: • In buying a child's bike, choose one • Studies of accidents show that: of a suitable size for easy handling. The • Younger children tend to have more child should be able to stand over the accidents than older ones do, but of a top bar with both feet flat on the floor less serious kind. and be able to easily reach the pedals • The ones most likely to have accidents when sitting on the seat. Back pedal are children who have been riding for brakes are usually recommended for less than two years. the younger riders as they are easier to • Falls are a much more common type ?per~te and are less likely to be damaged of accident than collisions and the in minor crashes and the everyday beating usual injuries are cuts, scrapes and a child's bike goes through. Avoid Hi bruises especially to the face and head. risers. Fractures are common too. • . Teach the new rider how to start and These types of accWents usually stop and how to turn. Handsignals and happen in residential areas, during the road rules are essential too. Make sure day and in clear weather - just children they can do this before they venture out out playing and fooling around. Most of of the park or other safe place in which them happen when the child loses control they have been practising. Better at least of the bike. Loss of control follows things try and warn them about riding double like: and doing 'wheelies'. • stunting, eg doing 'wheelies'; • riding double; • Have your child's bike regularly and completely checked by a reputable· shop • braking; • mechanical failure of the bike. or a competent person. Encourage them to learn about the bike and how it works. Bicycles that are too large for the child Learn yourself, too. to handle, worn rubber pedals and conse­ quent problems with- slipping feet, gear For young children collisions with levers placed on the top bar and the motor vehicles account for only a small borrowing of other childrens' bikes can percentage of the accidents that take all be dangerous. place. But, of course, these collisions are 'Wheelies' and riding double are acti­ much more likely to result in injury or vities that children's bikes have not been death, and the risk increases with age. designed to cope with. Hi riser style bikes The group most at risk on a bicycle are are unstable at low speeds anyway, children in the 10-14 year age group who without causing further trouble by doing make up about half of the serious and things for which they were not intended. fatal accidents. 18 Freewheeling The Bicycle on the Road night. Have a front and rear light visible Cycl ists account for 3% of traffic fatali­ for 300', invest in some pedal and wheel ties in Australia. On a miles travelled reflectors, and what about a big Jumbo basis only motorcycles have a higher for the back? Bright safety jackets are accident risk. The majority of those killed available from motor cycle shops. are between the ages of 7 and 16 but with more adults taking up cycling this may Be Heard change. We have to remember, too, that Practise a loud yell , or buy yourself a many collisons between cars and cycles good loud horn. are not reported when only minor Be Predictable damage or injury results. Follow the road rules and give clear hand­ A bicycle on the road is way out­ signals. Do stop at lights. The more we classed in size and speed by the motor follow the rules, the more easy it _will be traffic and holds only a minor place in for nJOtorists to successfully guess what the motorist's awareness. Not always a we'll do next. It might lead to a greater respected place either, many of us know respect for cyclists if we act consistently. the shout Get orf the road yer . . .! in Until cycleways are common, we have to its every possible form. survive somehow. Studies made of bicycle accidents on the road have produced some useful Choose You Roads information: Avoid heavy traffic. Places like Victoria • Most accidents take place during week­ Road or Broadway are pretty deadly. days in the later afternoon and early Ride out far enough from the gutter to evening; avoid drains and the opening doors of • Commonly motorists claim they did parked cars where its possible to do so. not see the cyclists. Don't Ride When Sad, Sick or Mis.erable Obviously, then visibility is a very impor­ If you are preoccupied by anything, or tant thing to consider if a cyclist is to just feel spooked, make no excuses to avoid injury. yourself or anyone and stay off the road. • Half of bike accidents occur at inter­ sections; Keep Bike in Top Shape • In two out of three collisions between Poor brakes and wobbling wheels are cars and bikes the cyclist violated a dangerous things. safety rule or law. Learn As Much As You The most common violations were: Can About Your Bike • Failing to give right of way. Anything that adds to your control and • Disregarding traffic signs, signals and confidence is a great asset. Watch out for markers. poor braking in rainy weather, not only • Making improper turns. yours but the motorists around you. • Riding double. If All Else Fails A very strong case for following the road If the traffic is too heavy, the rain too rules! Other often cited dangers facing bleak, oranything - become a pedestrian cyclists are: for a while. • The opening doors of parked cars. Riding With Friends in the City • Gratings covering drains. Work out which way to go first, make • Cracks and bumps. sure you all know before you start. Ride • Loose dirt and gravel. single file in general. Make decisions • Wet streets. independently. Don't just follow some­ • Gutters and fixed objects. one through a stopsign without looking. One last, very important fact to note Signal to each other. is that 75% of bicycle accident deaths result from head injuries. 80% of cyclists Helmets struck by motor vehicles had head injuries For regular city riders helmets must be a according to a study done in Adelaide. sensible idea considering the accident To just write a list of rules for staying statistics. Bell makes a special cyclists safe isn't enough. Safe riding is an atti­ helmet, other choices are professional ice tude as well as the following of rules. hockey helmets, climbing, canoeing or First you have to realise that bicycle racing types. There is also a less sub­ riding is a dangerous occupation, for you, stantial version of the ice hockey helmet. and that it is easy enough to be hurt or Anything is probably better than nothing, killed if you venture out on the high but hard evidence about the relative road. Once you have realised that, and it effectiveness of these helmets is lacking. may take a few shocks before you do, and decided that you don't want to die, Wherever You Are there's more point in looking at some Develop your 'feel' for the road. Listen, guides for riding. is that a car, a bike or a truck behind you? Beware of the windrush from big vehicles Be Seen coming either way. Be awake, take care, Wear light, bright clothes, especially at stay alive. Freewheeling 19 bicycle touring - Days and nights in the The Border Ranges from

he density of vegetation, variety rainforest in NSW, most of which was Tof life-forms and luxuriant growth in the lowlands adjoining the Border which strike the visitor to a rainforest Ranges, has been reduced to often- produce an emotional reaction 200,000 acres. Most of the remaining on the part of the traveller. Yet 200 ,000 acres have been logged, despite this wonderment at the mag­ leaving a mixed growth of scrub and nificence of nature epitomised by the weeds. The only substantial unspoilt rainforest, in Australia it has often area remaining is the Border been regarded solely as a source of Ranges. This includes the largest ·valuable timbers, such as the cedar tracts of prime virgin sub-tropical which attracted woodsmen through­ rainforest left in Australia and pos­ out the nineteenth century, or merely sibly in the world. as an unnecessary covering of a ntil recently, pressure for the cre­ supposedly fertile soil to be rernoved Uation of a Border Ranges as quickly as possible so that National Park has come mainly from agriculture or pastoralism could local conservation bodies. It has make better use of the " scrub" or been resisted by timber interests "brush" land. Fortunately, some of who have been backed by the For­ the early timbergetters, such as estry Commission in fulfilment of its Romeo Lahey in the McPherson charter to "encourage the use of Ranges, saw the value of preserving timber" (Forestry Act). some patches of rainforest as There is no national park which National Parks where people could adequately _serves the far north enjoy the scenery and appreciate the coast of NSW. Timber interests make complex interdependence of plants I profits, and workers gain somewhat and animals in the forest. However, dangerous and impermanent em­ despite the variety of rainforest in ployment from the exploitation of the Australia, their full value and the \ I I ever decreasing timber resources. wide variety of uses to which rain­ he term " Border Ranges National forest may be put have seldom been TPark" applies to the central por­ considered. tion of the McPherson Range and a The valleys of the Richmond and southern spur - the Tweed Range. Tweed rivers of northern NSW and The McPherson Range itself is a the hinterland of the Logan, Albert, spur of the Great Dividing Range. Coomera and Nerang Rivers in Along its crest runs the border be­ Queensland once carried dense tween NSW and Queensland. From sub-tropical variants of tropical for­ its watershed the Tweed River flows est, with above about 600 metres the east, the Richmond and Clarence temperate rainforest dominated by Rivers south, the Condamine Nothofagus moorei (Antarctic (source of the Darling) to the west, Beech). Most of these forests have and tributaries of the Brisbane been cleared, and in the lowlands Rivers and the Logan and Albert only a few reserves, such as the Stott Rivers flow north. Island Nature Reserve and Mebbin Unlike the Great Dividing Range, State Forest remain. which is a broad dissected plateau, The original 1,800,000 acres of part of the McPherson Range con- 20 Freewheeling sists of a chain of volcanic peaks, ris­ mens of a wide variety of rainforest ing to heights of more than 1,200 trees. The areas which the ACF, the metres. Colong Committee, the National The Tweed Range was formed in Parks Association of NSW, the the tertia·ry period by a great flow ol Border Ranges Preservat i on lava from the central vent of Mount Society, the Byron Bay Flora and rainforest Warning. It rises abruptly from the Fauna Association and many other Tweed Valley, forming a continuous conservation groups seek to pre­ rock-rimmed escarpment, about serve is south of the border. 1,000 metres above the lowlands. It consists mainly of Wiangarie a Bicycle Moisture-laden winds from the State Forest, on the Tweed Range, Pacific Ocean are forced up over the and Roseberry State Forest to the Tweed Range escarpment, where west (which includes Lever's Pla­ some 3,750 mm . (about 150 inches) teau), and some adjacent lands. of rainfall is believed to be precipi­ Linked with existing and proposed tated annually. Rainfall is consider­ Queensland reserves, the proposed a b I y less to the west . The park would complete a chain of re­ combination of high rainfall and rich serves, extending from the Great volcanic soil, on a range 700 kms Dividing Range to the coast. The cre­ from the tropics, has resulted in a ation of the parks would mean the luxuriant growth of sub-tropical rain­ preservation of some of the most forest on the wet uplands and in the beautiful mountain scenery in the gullies. On Lever's plateau are found Commonwealth. Horseshoe Creek basin from forest road some of the largest remaining speci- Alex Colley Habitat Australia Vol 4 No 3

Freewheeling 21 Tamrc.okum Mt Lindesay Hwy - Major Sealed Road Minor Sealed Road

Minor Unsealed Road ?"'"BORDER RANGES l 0~ +-+--+-+- Railway Standard Gauge V ROUTEMAP

Macpherson"-",~ "~'- 0

. Roseberry State Forest Mt Glennie MtWarn,~ ~1111i'

Tweed River Valley

Below: Approaching Mt Lindesay. Travelling Nightcap Range north towards Old Border. Far Right: Morning sun streams into the rainforest shadows. Brindle Creek, Wiangaree State Forest.

22 Freewheeling By Warren Salomon

BORDER RANGES

By now the sun had climbed to its zenith. With sweat forming and dripping down on to the gravel road we climbed up on into Wiangaree. What on earth are we doing pushing bikes up a steep slope in the midday sun? Mad dogs and Englishmen ... We had left our climb till late and now we sweated for our mistake. As the road levelled out we could see ahead of us the dark green tops of the ridges all clothed in cool rainforest ... In the blue sky over clouds appear as the rainforest begins to work its magic - the afternoon rainstorm. Elsewhere it is dry and sunny but here near to the top of our climb it begins to rain, a cool shower to wash away our sweat, our heat and our fears - we are in the forest now and all is still save the wind in the canopy above. On a bicycle you can generally hear log trucks long before they can see you.

In late 1977 a group of BINSW cyclists ventured into the Border Ranges area to find out what was there and what was really at stake. The tour they took is described on the following pages so all cyclists may discover for themselves this wonderful area. In all of the proposals and counter proposals for the ultimate land use of the Border Ranges cyclists have remained unthought of. The BINSW riders believe that the area offers all cyclists a rare opportunity of experiencing the rainforest and its ways. Roads such as the Wiangaree Forest Road are almost unique in the state of NSW. On this tour a whole day was spent on roads inside the rainforest. Possibly the most attractive thing for cyclists was the ease of access to the area itself. Some 1 250 000 people live less than 100 km from its centre. Good cycling roads with light traffic and a daily rail service could bring further potential cyclists to the area. As bicycle touring continues to grow in popularity more and more bicyclists will come to discover this area. Cyclists participate -in the local economy by buying food and produce along the way and using existing accom­ modation facilities. It would be sad to think that those who saw it in '77 were the lucky last. The BINSW touring group concerned feels that a Border Ranges National Park would best serve the people of Australia. But don't take their word for it, get onto your bike and discover it for yourself. Freewheeling 23 :Q 0 (.:) :i > .0 0 0 .s::. ~ Touring Information near or between larger centres as people to restrict the flow of undesirable south­ A circular tour of the Border Ranges area in the area are very mobile. From Rath­ erners north. This is untrue. The people offers a good way to get a feel for the downey south down Running Creek who are there are NSW Department of countryside and experience its incredible Valley runs a beautiful sealed shire road Agriculture Officers who check vehicles diversities. Starting points on the NSW which, in parts, parallels the main inter­ for any Queensland ticks and bugs going side of the McPherson's are at Casino, state railway line. The bitumen eventually south. They are always very friendly and Kyogle or Lismore railway stations, all runs out before a bridge crossing of if asked will generally allow travelling of which are served by overnight air Running Creek. On the northern side of cyclists to fill water bottles from their conditioned trains from Sydney. Rath­ this bridge there is a little campsite off tanks. downey offers the best starting point the side of the road upstream. The road from the Queensland side. It lies some 80 from here through to the Cougal camp­ Close to the almost abandoned settle­ kilometers south of Brisbane's southern site in NSW is gravel, very rocky with ment of Cougal in NSW, the Lions Club suburban rail terminus of Beenleigh. some very steep grades. Most of Running of Kyogle has provided one of the nicest From Beenleigh the best way south is via Creek Valley used to be under rainforest campsite/picnic areas you'll find. This Tambourine Village, Beaudesert, and the and it is usually very green and lush. also is popular with summer campers and Mt Lindesay Highway. Campsites along Originally this road was built to serve the travellers but during weekdays is mostly the. way are wherever you can find a small farms up the valley and the road deserted. There are fireflies down by the sympathetic land owner. There are a few through into NSW was only recently swimming hole. This area is maintained good spots for stops along the Albert constructed as a voluntary project by by the Lions Club members on a volun­ River between Beenleigh and Tambourine Lions clubs in Kyogle and Beaudesert. tary basis. From this campsite through Village. This link road is called the Lions Road Wiangaree State Forest to Nimbin is and is signposted at either end. The actual gravel road. There are some sealed strips The circuit takes in the NSW towns of climb over the range is very steep from north of Nimbin. Long steep grades are to Casino, Kyogle, Wiangaree, Grevillia, either direction. The Queensland side is be experienced on forest roads leading Nimbin and Lismore and Rathdowney in more exposed and steeper. There is a cool· into and out of Wiangaree State Forest. If Queensland. This circuit can be comfor­ off spot before the climb when travelling travelling the circuit in a clockwise tably travelled in about seven days. Rest north-south just after the Lions Road sign direction the steepest climbs are: up onto days also can be added as there is much where the road passes close to the creek the ridge after the Wiangaree State Forest to see. before it begins its big ascent. The road Scenic Drive sign, up into Wiangaree itself, The road north from Casino to the has been widely promoted as a tourist road out of Brindle Creek and up over the Bar Queensland Border is a good OM R so weekend traffic can make conditions Mountain, all good solid climbs. (Get maintained road with some transports to difficult. There are many beautiful spots good shoes as the gravel makes it very be expected as it is the next inland by the creek all along this gravel road, difficult to ride.) From the other alternative road to the Pacific Highway. these can be filled with car campers direction there are long climbs: up into The road surface deteriorates once in to during summer holiday periods. Wiangaree from Barkers Vale School and Queensland and in parts the sealed There is a rumour that the border into rainforest, over the Bar Mountain, portion is very narrow. Traffic can occur gate is operated by Queensland police and out of Brindle Creek. The road from 24 Freewheeling Far Left: Border Ranges ariel photograph looking west, Levers Plateau in foreground, Mt Lindesay centre mid distance, the highway loops up behind Mt Lindesay from the left and crosses the border at the lowest point­ below the mountain. Left: Rainforest fig tree exposed by forest road. Centre: Log trucks can be heard at a distance,, it is worthwhile watching them roll by at a safe distance. Right: One of the splash crossings on the Cougal Creek Lions Road.

Nimbin through to Casino is Special Places to Visit there at the right time) coming up the sealed and the grades become The Tweed Pinacle can be reached quite valley, passing through a ridge via two easier as the river vallev.s widen. easily by means of a signposted walking tunnels to cross over the original track Maps track off the forest road. There is a small thereby gaining 65 feet in height. If (no water) overnight bivouac area soon planning a trip, train times for the day Most roadmaps of the area will not show only can be obtained by 'phoning Kyogle the forest roads or the Lions Road. The after the track emerges from the rain­ forest into Blackbutt Forest (Eucalypt). Railway, 321 041. The Limited passes leaflet published by the Forestry Com­ through early morning and late afternoon mission office at Kyogle has a very good From here it is a 15 minute + descent and most day trains are unscheduled map which shows both these roads. For down onto the pinnacle which offers goods trains. general topographical maps of the area 360 degree views of the Tweed Valley, the Natmap 1 :250 000 series maps Mount Warning and the Tweed Range Warwick and Tweed Heads cover the area escarpment. Campsites and give good detail of contours etc. Brindle Creek Picnic Area is an old army Lismore and Casino both have caravan The Tweed Heads map is an old non­ bivouac area now developed by the type camping grounds. The showground metric series published in 1967. Neither Forestry Commission as a picnic site. This at Kyogle offers quiet camping but the maps show road surface details in the area beautiful spot makes an ideal overnight showers are only cold. Apart from the so a good up-to-date petrol company map stopover point in dry rainforest. There campsites mentioned at Brindle Creek, should be obtained. The map accom­ are no toilet facilities provided but the Cougal and Running Creek, natural sites panying this article should be adequate Forestry Commission officers will pro­ are to be found wherever you can find a to complete the tour described without bably let travelling cyclists stay overnight sympathetic land owner. Often it is best need for any more extra maps than the if assurances are given that all human to ask around whenever local people can ones described above. wastes will be properly disposed of. This be found. Perserverance furthers. means garbage in bins, excrement buried Bike Shops and Provisions and no soap in creek. Care should be Good bike shops along the way are to be taken to preserve the leaf mould ground Climate found in the NSW towns of Casino, covering in this rainforest. Wood is pro­ Rain in varying amounts is to be expected Lismore and Kyogle. These towns plus vided by the NSW Forestry Commission, any time of year. Cyclonic weather can Nimbin, are the best provisioning stops in as wood in rainforest is scarce and occur from November through to March, NSW . Rathdowney in Queensland has a generally unsuitable for use in cooking making all forest roads very slippery but small store, a butcher shop and pub. fires. Fireplaces are also provided. still traffickable (all roads described are About 11 km further north there is a The Border Loop. In order to reduce the all weather roads). In winter months the well stocked general store at Tamroukum length of railway tunnel through the tops can become very cold at night and opposite the interstate railway line. For Macpherson Range a spiral loop was summer heat can make riding in the lower cyclists approaching from the north, the constructed about 5 km south of the valleys and river plains a hot and humid town of Beaudesert is an excellent place border crossing. From a lookout above affair. Best seasons for touring in this to buy food and supplies. the loop, trains can be seen (if you are area are spring and autumn. Freewheeling 25 TOURING IN ENGLAND and a sunburnt face. London is somewhere, Another traveller, not a fantastic city or a dream, a strong bond, no need for introduction. arrived at out of a silver, highflying box. Alone, Winchester, on the long road. Off out of town, anchored in green land, the solid, inexorable, movement away. An oasis of a town, ancient hills, not a picture in a pamphlet, a cool tree, Distance, farther and closer. or an idly taken photograph at another scenic The sight of mileposts, grass to sit on, and toilet facility stop on a bus tour. some expected, some so much further away shelter from the wind and sun, slow grinding into a wind. It rains, its hot, it smells of cows. and a drink, a long cool drink. There are dead animals on the road, and I Wheeling a bicycle. might well be one of them, me, with no Gipsy carts, Where have you been? metal and glass cage. Where are you going? pubs, An adventure. Gargoyles on gates, How far do you go a day? Arriving at night, closed villages with strange names, Vou must be fit! rolling the last few feet to a front gate, corner shops. sorting out the rules and a bed for the night. Companions on the road, · Rolling into Cambridge, or to London, Dinner and conversations, walks into town, a touring bike dusty and worn, the dust of miles, the smell of the land, sometimes singing. Are there s~owers? leaning against a post by a shop. the feel of its rise and fall. Waiting beside it for its owner to return, The. sun and weather, Noise, sleep. or the search for someone sea tu the left, with grease on their clothes or legs, all of it carried along with you.

~c,~ · ~~<:,··

IN EIRE

Riding over windy hills in the grey morning

Blown like a bird round the winding road Down to the sleeping valleys.

Cold, smooth, leaning past the rocks and dull lakeside ./ I travel towards the sea. Barbara Lovell 26 Freewheeling Roads In all of Europe roads are sealed, in­ cluding the minor roads. Thus, there is no need to share major roads with fast traffic. There are many cycle paths in Holland but do not expect to set speed records on them. Beware of cobblestones in Rome, Paris and Brussels and tram­ tracks in many cities. Hills The hills of Devon are so steep that the touring cyclists should half their daily mileage budget. Cornwall and Derbyshire are n

Relations with Europeans Most of them are delighted to help cycling Australians. They will sell you anything you require, give you d irections (but ask somebody else every kilometre or so, to be sure you are going the right way), advise you on local beauty spots or even let you wait in their hayshed until the rain stops. But they can become rather less patient when you lean your bike on their shop window, ride it on an expressway or take it onto holy ground, eg St Stephen's Green in Dublin or the surrounds of the Arc de Triomphe. What to Take The less you carry, the better - for Touring in several reasons. I survived with light clothing, a hostel sleeping sheet and a few bicycle tools. This was carried with the heavy and valuable items in an easily­ Western Europe removed handlebar bag and the light things tied to the back carrier. You by Jim Donovan should be prepared for heavy rain . For In May last year I rode out of the Kentish these problems can be avoided by regular reasons of safety on wet roads, your front town of Orpington (about 15 miles from daily ·use of the telephone at 9 am. tyre should have . a good tread on it, London) and thus commenced a 2-month Except in France, hostel wardens usually and of course, some traveller's cheques - tour of ten European countries. The speak English. If hostels are inconvenient, the · hostelling cyclist might budget $10 following remarks may help those who look for a Zimmer (Germany, Austria) ; + train fares in England and $15 + train are contemplating such a tour. a Pension (France) or a B+B (England). fares in Europe, where things are dearer. These cost about twice as much as hostels Camping cyclists could live on a lot less. Accommodation but are more comfortable and are at least How to Get a Bike to Europe as interesting. Some tourists I met carried full camping Oanta, will carry it there and back for gear and thus were fully independent of you, unless you prefer to buy one over­ hostels etc. But, to judge from the Maps seas. The daily ferries across the Channel numbers of cycles parked at hostels, the In England, most oil companies have the and the Irish Sea wi 11 help you as required, majority of tourists preferred to use British Isles covered by a series of about and there are trains. hostels. These were always tolerable, 9 maps at a scale of 1 :200 000. They are the only real hassle being that some cheap and fairly accurate. Most of Europe Finally hostels (eg Windsor, Oxford etc) are hard is covered by the Michelin series of maps, Your YHA membership should be paid to get into without booking by mail. And available from tabacs in French countries, before you go. Also, it would be handy it is very possible to discover that a large Bucherein in Germany and large book­ to be a member of the British Cycle school party has greatly reduced the shops in Dutch countries. These maps Tourists Club. Write to the CTC at available accommodation in a remote and are very accurate and are ideal for road Cotterell House, 69 Meadrow, Godalming apparently poorly-patronised hostel. Both cycling. Surrey. Freewheeling 27 Below: The high point of this tour is reachiid at this point roughly halfway between the New bicycle touring England National Park turnoff and Ebor.

ARMIDALE TO URUNGA Although this route has probably been by Daniel McNamara (Derrigo Section) which has fair detail of cycled by many hundreds of bicyclists road surfaces, and encompasses the (indeed the little old man in the Broad­ England, through the heady climatic and stretch Armidale-Bellingen on the one way Bicycle Shop warned us of the hills physiographic transition zone of the map, and finally the 1:100000 Ordi­ going down the Darrigo), I offer this Derrigo escarpment, out to the bleached­ nance Survey series R651 map which has account as a record which may prove of hair-and-surfboard nirvana of the coast. detailed contours of the Darrigo escarp­ some use to intending tourists. Being theoretically downhill, the ment and shows reasonable ground cover A current interest in forest types, and riding ranges from longish dry and dusty detail (available Lands Department, particularly rainforest types, determined grades between Armidale and Ebor, to Bridge Street, Sydney). the choice of this route. Both Armidale the brake-testing exhilaration of the The night mail train to Armidale and Urunga are on Northern Rail routes. Downhill-AII-The-Way-Dorrigo roller­ arrives at 8 am. Milkbars are scarce, but Armidale has the overwhelming advantage coaster. My friend had done little touring the centre of the town is a nice place to of being some one thousand metres previously, and though we didn't break enjoy breakfast, with its pedestrian mall higher than Urunga, which, over 180 speed records, she didn't die from the and innumerable Keep Our City Clean kilometres, averages out to a nice down­ effort as she thought she might. signs. Anything else you would like to hill run. (Well, the theory is right). The Trains from Sydney are relatively know about the town is on the back of route passes by the New England National cheap - around $10 second class to the NRMA touring map (as is information Park with alpine, wet and dry sch lero­ Armidale ($5 for students) plus $5 or so about most of the other towns we passed phyll, temperate and semitropical rain­ for the bike, and about the same from through), so I won't bore you with details. forests. Within walking distance of each Urunga to Sydney. For maps we took an Due to a train derailment, our bikes other are Guy Fawkes River National NRMA Mid North Coast road map, (good didn't arrive till midday, so we made Park, and the Derrigo National Park. At for an overview of the whole region, and Wollomombi 42 km east, our target for the same time, the ride varies from the you just can't beat the price), the 1: the night, with the mistaken hope that cool green upland regions of New 250 000 Ordinance Survey Series R502 perhaps there might be a pub there. (A

28 Freewheeling hope that was eventually fulfilled in fix (it was Sunday). We didn't meet is narrow and steep, but it seems the Darrigo.) The human hand shows strongly a soul on the 5.6 km Lyrebird trail to ever-descending series of looping banks in the country east of Armidale, and Wards Lookout. and turns fit somehow into the scale of a recently ringbarked trees stand dead in Next day took us to Fernbrook via bicycle, making it pure exhilaration for fields of paspalum, interspersed with a Ebor, a very pleasant ride. The falls near eleven kilometres. It is so easy to stop few scraggly eucalypts. We swam in Ebor are worth a lunch stop, only 500 m and see where you have come from and the Gyra River, 14 km out of town, a from the road, which is dirt for about six where you are going to, and sense your pleasant enough swimming hole just kilometres near the town. There weren't place as somewhere between, unlike the north of the bridge, and arrived parched many potholes when we passed through, leaden-faced tourist with boiling radiators and tired at Wollomombi, where we and the worst problem was dust from the on their minds. You feel the air get camped near the river. occasional cattle truck. However, with a warmer, the sun emerges, and suddenly change of municipality, the surface you are irrevocably down, into the slow The second day took us into the New reverts to bitumen and makes the long moving breathlessness of the Bellingen England National Park, and the country hills and dales a delight for tenth gear. We Valley. gets more hilly. The sealed road becomes camped the night somewhere near Fern­ Bellingen is a cosy town touched by gravel at the turn off, which in many brook in a burnt-out farmstead, framed the hand of hippy commercialism, but ways is a pleasant, more relaxed riding by the classic fire ruins of brick chimney still retaining its rural agricultural charac­ than the main road, though highway place and rusty water tanks. ter. We lunched and took the road along traffic was hardly a problem. We passed a The rest of the ride to Darrigo is pure the northern bank of the river, hilly in structure sitting in a paddock, looking joy. The road passes along the Darrigo parts, mostly sealed, and almost without like The Tomb of the Drive In Hamburger Plateau from which it is possible at times traffic. We camped just off a logging trail which turned out to be a vital link in the to see rugged mountains falling away on near the road before Charlmont, in the Air Traffic Control Network (or so the both sides, with wilderness edging the Pine Creek State Forest, where the mos­ technicians working there informed us). timid green borders of isolated dairy quitoes were the most voracious we Inside the Park is superb. We spent farms. encountered on the journey. two nights sleeping in Tom's Cabin, at $2 Darrigo National Park is very special. Next day we had to face the dreary, a night for hot showers and soft beds, It marks the transition from high to low, smelly and dangerous 4 km down the which isn't bad value. The cabin has eight plateau to valley, cool to warm, and the Pacific Highway to Urunga, definitely beds, but for some strange reason, the semi-tropical rainforest had an almost the worst of the whole trip. We made it in first person to book for the night gets Hansel-and-Gretel feeling at dusk, when one piece, booked our seats on the the whole place. We talked the first-come we emerged from it to camp near the following day's train, and headed off to into subletting for the n·ight and we park entrance. Officially there is no Hungry Head, 3 km south of the town, stayed on next day to do some walking camping in the park now, but it appears for the final night's camping. The water on the forest paths. Only once did we that this will change in the near future, was warm, the afternoon surf a choppy emerge from our peaceful trail of water- with a campsite somewhere near the prussian blue, and the feeling was one of falls and Antarctic beech trees, and that Never-Never picnic area. That night the return at last to the ocean. We braved the was at the block busting view from Point gentle falling rain dripped through our No Camping signs - it was only for· one Lookout, swarming with chip-munching tiny tent, bringing home the quintessence night - and woke to the morning's sun­ children and their parents staggering the of this forest type into our sleeping bags. shafts in time to swim, breakfast and awful two hundred metres from car to For the ride of all rides, down the return to Urunga for that final ten-hour vantage point for their weekly scenic Darrigo should not be missed. The road air-conditioned movie back to Sydney. ·~~ Q c". ~~ ~

~~ (Y'l ~ ~ f)

i (

Freewheeling 29 Recycle Australia!

BICYCLISTS ACCOMMODATION LIST

This list is circulated free to all who wish to be on it. It offers accommoaation to travelling cyclists anywhere in Australia. The way this list works is simple: If you wish to recycle a part of Australia that you own and/or care for, like an old shed, a visitor's room in your house, a spot down by the creek or just outside in the backyard, and you would be happy for travelling cyclists to use it for overnight camping then write to the address below and ask to be put on the list. You will receive a current copy of the list with your name and address or directions to your place added to the bottom. Periodically the lists are updated and reprinted and you will receive these copies as well. It may seem like a bit of a chain letter thing, but the list works the way it does because some involve­ ment is necessary. People already on the list are travelling cyclists offering accommodation or a place to camp at their city homes or somewhere on rural properties. Some are also people who don't travel by bicycle but are happy to let cyclists camp or seek shelter. The basic requirement for any self-sufficient cyclist or group should be a water supply, some­ where to cook a meal, a place to sleep or put up a tent. TheBicvclist seeks to provide for these essential needs in a voluntary way. The distribution of the list is only to those on the list as some commitment to making the list idea RECYCLE AUSTRALIA ! work is necessary. An advice sheet which accom­ panies the list explains the philo­ ~,fyclist sophy behind bicycle travel and how to make the most out of the Broadway NSW 2007 list idea. This list is assembled and printed as a public service by Freewheeling Australia Publications, RECYCLE AUSTRALIA ! also of the above address.

30 Freewheeling First Aid Kits Purpose for travelling cyclists and use of Note: Th is article is not to be considered These items could all be packed into a as a complete treatment of the subject smal I pocket-s ize tin or bag. of First Aid. The contents of the group kit must be SP3Cific Few travelling cyclists have more than a carefully selected so that all injuries rudimentary knowledge of first aid. This and ailments that might reasonably be is generally sufficient for them to cope expected to occur can be dealt with. items with the minor accidents - cuts, abrasions, This would include scratches, abrasions, blisters, minor burns and infections lacerations, blisters, bites, burns, scalds, etc - to which they are prone. However, infections, sunburn, headaches, eye Adhesive Tape: plain, for strapping sprained serious and complicated inJuries do injuries, sprains, fractures, broken limbs, ankles. happen, though fortunately not often, It stomach complaints and snake bite. Elastoplast: not for strapping sprained ankles or broken ribs but for keeping a dressing or is then essential that proper treatment be The following kit, used in conjunction bandage in position over an area of the body applied immediately. The usual vague with personal kits, is recommended as which moves. knowledge is then totally inadequate - being suitable for use by a party of from Crepe Bandage: for applying a dressing over an indeed the party in endeavouring to help six to ten persons on a trip of up to about area of the body which moves and which is too extensive for the use of sticking plaster. may easily make the injury even worse. ten days, in country where medical It is not for strapping sprained ankles. The best advice, therefore, that can be centres can be contacted relatively Sterile Dressing ('shell' or 'field' type) : may be given to cyclists is to do a course with the quickly should the necessity arise, ie not ta ken to reduce the quantity of crepe l:!an­ St John's Ambulance Association or Red more than a day away: dages . Sterile dressings must be carefully packed and protected to keep them. intact Cross Society, become proficient at f irst 1 roll adhesive tape, 3 inches wide; and completely sterile. aid to the injured, and thus be prepared 1 roll elastoplast adhesive bandage, 3 Triangular Bandage: can be adapted to many to render correct treatment and assistance uses but is generally used in splinting or inches wide; if and when the need arises. Such a course supporting injured limbs. 2 crepe bandages, 3 inches wide; Bandaids: cloth to-allow the wound to breathe, will give a thorough and valuable know­ 3 triangular bandages; not plastic. ledge of the correct method of treatment 20 bandaids or in continuous strip; Non-adhesive Dressing: large, for severe cuts. of injuries, although it will be necessary Cotton Wool: must be carried in a waterproof 12 non-adhesive dressings; in some cases to adapt these methods to container. It is useless if wet. 2 oz cotton wool; conditions likely to be encountered in an 1 tube Butesin Picrate, 1 oz;* Butesin Picrate: a dual purpose ointment used accident occurring in backroads, remote 1 pack antiseptic cream, 4 oz; particularly for small burns. It is antiseptic from medical centres and with limited and pain-k illing to a certain extent but must 20 Codis tablets, in tinfoil; treatment facilities at hand, and where be used with care around the eyes and·mouth. 1 eye-shade; Antiseptic Cream: for minor cuts, scratches, the person may have to be immobilised. 1 pair scissors; bu ·ns etc. applied to cleanse the wound and Every group must be equipped with a kill bacteria around the wound. Other sub­ comprehensive first aid kit, suited to the 8 safety pins, assorted sizes; stances are often recommended - Monacrin, size of the party and nature of the trip. 1 pair fine forceps; Acriflavine, Zephiran, Cetavlin, Iodine etc, While the kit must be comprehensive it 1 tourniquet; but Savlon is probably the most useful and 1 thermometer; portable antiseptic. Cetavlex cream ca n be must also be simple; complicated kits are used as an alternative; it is a mild antiseptic unnecessary and may be misleading to 1 rubber eye grit remover; detergent cream having a similar action to the persons using them. Further, it is 1 instruction card. Saylon. Codis Tablets: available packed in tinfoil. It is essential that each member be thoroughly This 'basic kit' when packed into a a more potent pain reliever than Disprin, familiar with the contents of the kit and convenient-sized container will b'e suitable also packed in tinfoil , or Aspro in waxed the purpose and use of each item. The kit for most of the trips likely to be under­ paper. Veganin, Codral and Codiphen are must be packed so that it cannot be taken. Trips for anly a weekend or a few equivalent in thei r action but not so con­ damaged in any way, and is always con­ days require less of a kit and cyclists who veniently packed. venient for use. Pl astic lunch boxes make are very keen on saving weight in their Scissors: pointed type. suitable containers. panniers could reduce the kit for use on Fine Forceps: for removing splinters and ticks. To deal with the frequent very minor such trips. As a general rule, however, it is Tourniquet: a length of rubber tubing is most useful for snake bite. injuries - cuts, scratches, skin abrasions advisable to use the basic kit on all trips Thermometer: protect from damage, know how etc, it is preferable for each member to up to about ten days and not reduce it to use it correc·tly. carry a small personal kit either in the for shorter trips - relatively little weight Rubber Eye Grit Remover : to be used only for pocket or an outside pocket of the pann­ can be saved, a new and smaller container removing objects from the eye. ier. The use of such personal kits must be found, and there is always the Instruction Card: a valuable addition to the ensures that sufficient quantities of likelihood that the quantities will not be first aid kit is an instruction card, or cards, certain items remain in the main party replenished for the next long trip. The fastened, for example, to the inside of the lid of the container. Should the kit have to kit for use in the event of a more serious basic kit should only be altered when it is be used by a person unfamiliar with its injury. It is also useful if the group to be used by a larger party - then the contents or with first aid generally, these becomes separated, and to save the i ncon­ quantity of bandaging, and dressing cards will give useful information which venience of taking out and opening the materials shoLJld be increased. will serve as a guide to the treatment of injuries and ailments. The cards should main kit for one or two bandaids. Such a include the following information, set out kit (personal) would include: Though serious accidents happen only so that it may be clearly and quickly read : 10 cloth bandaids or in uncut lengths; occasionally, don't wait for one to occur 1 a complete I ist of the contents of the kit 1 tube antiseptic cream; with information on the use of specific to make you realise the importance of items, such as is given in this article; 12 analgesic tablets, in tinfoil ; having a thorough knowledge of first 2 brief but basic instructions to be ob­ 1 tube sun blockout ointment; aid - it may be too late then. served when treating an injured person. Freewheeling 31 Theall weather cyclist et&Co1 andhow not to let itgetyou

down Left : Wet weather is often an _,portunity to experience nature in a mag~ificent _ mood. On the Alpine Bicycle touring can be an all weather For general preparedness for the rain it is Way north of Khancoban NSW. Above : activity. It becomes that if you are pre, enough just to have a good parka handy The all weather version of the flannel pared to accept all of the changes which and a cape to drape over the 'saddle bags'. fool, complete with plastic bag over ,shoes. that term implies. For riding during a day of prolonged rain Concepts of good and bad weather it becomes necessary to have waterproof For keeping riding gloves dry, water­ are tied up with good and bad feelings. pannier bags, a good parka with venti­ proof over mittens are useful. These To feel good inside ones own body or to lation possibilities and some way of should be large enough to go over feel good about the group of people you keeping feet dry. If it is warm then wet woolen gloves and mittens for those travel with is what matters most. feet are not so much of a problem. cold and wet mornings. In wet weather, to stay dry involves Cold weather adds further consi­ Wet feet can be very uncomfor­ some preparation and maintenance of derations. Wool is the only fabric that table if it is also cold. In the US equipment. A leaky park~ can spoil will keep you warm when wet. A wool manufactured over shoes are available. a whole trip e&pecially if all of your shirt will keep that necessary layer of They should also be available here. If clothing becomes .wet. In a cold climate warm air next to your body. you can't wait it is easy to make staying warm is of even greater impor­ Even though it was winter and the rain simple canvas proofed over shoes tance, as this article explains. was falling evenly from the low clouds, that protect the shoe. Some kinds of Some personal involvement and care is inside my parka my body was working light canvas boots sold in disposals necessary in choosing and maintaining away at the hundred or so kilometres stores can be made waterproof by useful equipment. on to Cowra. By the time I arrived at applying proofing compound. Mandurama my wool shirt was very Equipment for Bicycle Woolen sox are once again good to sodden and I think most of it was my wear even though some moisture Travel in Wet Conditions own sweat. The warm food from the is present. D Waterproof pannier bags. town's only cafe/ take away tasted re­ Finally, when the day is over it is O Plastic bags (for equipment if bags assuring as I shivered away - it w~s good to have some warm and dry leak or rain is heavy and prolonged). essentially a refueling stop due to the clothes next to the skin. If the • Waterproof parka. cold, wet conditions. Once under way I pannier bags are not waterproofed D Waterproof rain pants. could warm up again. When the rain and if they are nylon chances are O Waterproof over mittens (if gloves are stopped I could ventilate my parka and that, like unproofed canvas, they will worn). dry out . .. leak, then clothes must be packed in O Waterproof over shoes or gaiters (for Long woolen pants will protect your strong, plastic bags. Large bags for riding in rain) . legs in severe cold. However, shorts will the entire contents of the pannier Extra Equipment for often be preferred because of sweating bag tend to get worn and easily Wet & Cold Conditions problems. Long pants will become wet develop holes unless the plastic is D Wool shirt. very quickly even if protected from rain thick. Better to pack smaller lots in O String singlet and or tee shirt or wool by rain pants. Rain pants give some more bags. Always carry extra plastic undershirt. warmth and protect legs from wind and bags if wet weather is to be expected. D Woolen gloves and mittens. driving rain . A combination of shorts Sl eeping bag covers are seldom D Woolen sox. and these wi ll do in most wet and cold waterproof so it is necessary to have O Long woolen pants (only for severe conditions. Rain pants should be of the a plastic over bag to ensure a warm, conditions, see notes). same fabric as the parka. dry night's sleep.

32 Freewheeling Exposure theparka

Exposure is caused by a severe loss of Because a parka is possibly the most you apply some more compound. body heat, leading to mental deterioration, useful and often most used item of Cotton japara is a natural fibre loss of muscular co-ordination, and bicycle touring equipment it is so it is susceptible to attack by eventually unconsciousness and death. important that it be durable as well fungal growth. This occurs as with The danger of exposure in Australia's as efficiently perform its water and tents if the item of equipment is wet, cold climates cannot be overstressed. wind repellant requirements. stored wet and unventilated for a day or so - the mildew weakens the Material fabric (not often noticeable on such Causes Most manufactured parkas and rain an oily object) and eventually tears Cold: This is the basis cause, if a person capes are made of natural and occur at stress points. is wearing insufficient or wet clothing, proofed fabric like cotton (japara) Never store a wet parka and never or if high winds are blowing. fabric (oilskins) or nylon fabric. consider it to be dry after being worn Fatigue: It is the additional factor of Both fabrics have their advantages even in dry weather. Nylon will physical exhaustion that kills quickly. and disadvantages. The most impor· harbour mildew but to a much lesser There have been many deaths from tant thing is that your parka or cape extent. Because of the oil, proofed exposure when a group thinking they keep you dry while standing or japara picks up dirt and eventually must keep moving at all costs, have slowly cycling in the rain. It is also gets an earthy appearance. Nylon 'pushed on', often with little food, necessafy for the fabric to 'breathe'. fabrics are generally brighter and for instead of seeking shelter and retaining That is, allow moisture from your the cyclist this is necessary if safety a sufficient energy reserve. body to escape and not condense is important. On dull days in low Mental stress : When conditions are too much on the inside of the visibility, being seen by· motorists difficult, energy expenditure is usually material. The big problem with nylon is a major concern. far less profitable, and once the signs and in this regard is that ususally its symptoms of exposure have appeared, waterproofness depends on a fine Specification mental activity should be diverted im­ layer of plastic on the inside of the Manufacturers should respond to the mediately to camping for the night. woven fabric wh i'ch seals the porous needs of a growing bicycle touring woven fabric. The smooth· nylon population and consider the following Signs and symptoms fibres will not hold proofing for list of needs for the bicycle touring parka. Parkas can easily be made on Mental deterioration: Lethargy, little very long and the layer of plastic a home sewing machine if you want regard for the situation, possibly out­ breaks down with use. When the bursts of violent language and energy. proofing wears off a japara oilskin to do it yourself. Muscular incordination : ,Movements sluggish, stumbling; slurring of speech.

Treatment Hood large enough to cover forehead ______"' In any treatment, blood flow must not when hands are low on handle bars. be increased to the skin (such as by drinking alcohol) unless in a warm environment. On the road: Get the person into · a sleeping bag. Protect them from the wind, Bright overall colour or with brjght panel inside a tent if possible. Apply mouth to on back and shoulder area.------,----~~ mo.uth resuscitation with external cardiac Map pocket under cape flap . Velcro massage, if necessary. Often spontaneous fasteners on flaps. recovery will occur after the loss of body heat is stopped, and the person may be Sleeves should be long enough so as not to ride up arms when wet. If elastic is used in fed and reassured for at least the rest of ends to prevent air being forced in then the day. the elastic should work when wet . A simple tightening strap would be a better device. Prevention Drawstring waistband with knobs on ends The group must be able to withstand of tapes. some discomfort, navigate efficiently, and assess its capabilities. Carefu Ily consider Simple overlap for pocket 'lids' . the risk of exposure before travelling in adverse conditions. Clothing must be Velcro fastening patches. adequate, especially wind and water­ Flap covering full length zip. (The kind proof. You should eat, even if a stop will which opens top and bottom) with wind be a cold and gloomy one. When· things flap over. ------f:f:f:fflli2:i:i:i;~iffif:ft get 'too rough', responsible people must Ampl e length when wet and sitting dowvv.:.:n ______::~=~~~~1:f:l~~fflffi!!f' consider the chances of continuing to keep bum dry. - successfully, and if the party shows any signs of exposure, an immediate diversion of energies to camping is necessary. Freewheeling 33 There will come a time when you will need to transport your bicycle by (sssh ! ) car. There are a number of ways this may be done - some more successful than others. 1 In the boot of the car or in the rear of the station wagon. Unless you own a car with a very large boot then this will necessitate taking the bike apart (ie wheels out, mudguards - if any - off). This can be a dirty and messy business especially when you are trying to impress a friend with your cycling 'savoir faire'. The space in which you are putting the bike then becomes useless for other things such as the second or third bike. Cost: minimal. 2 On a tow-bar mounted rack. These units look really fine and will display your bicycle to full advantage. Unfor­ tunately my experience with these gives me a rather jaundiced view. • The bike gets very dirty from dust and exhaust gases. On one car I had the tail pipe was adjacent to the wheel and scorched the casing. • The boot becomes very inaccessible. • Cars tend to run into the bike. The How to make number of times this has happened to friends of mine are legion. • The wheels can get damaged as you your car into a reverse through the dips at the begin­ ning of steep driveways (I used to do this regularly). Cost: approximately $40 (assuming a bicycle transporter tow-bar is fitted) . 3 On top of the road on a special bike rack. These racks involve taking out the front wheel and installing the by Chas Coin front forks on a dummy axle which is welded to the rack. All those excess front wheels can become a nuisance. Also a number of these have had poor design and even worse welding allowing the bike to depart from the car in a manner to which it is not accustomed. The triangulation of support from the front fork to the rear wheel does not encourage rigidity. Another dis­ advantage shared in common with No 4 (below) is that the bike can be wiped off if going through low profile garages. Cost: approximately $45. 4 On a pair of surfboard racks. This method involves turning the bike upside down and strapping the handle­ bars and saddle to the front and rear bars respectively. The front bar will sit comfortably in the handbrake/ handlebar junction. The bike is strapped down using three pedal straps. The disadvantage is the same as for No 3 - wiping the bike off under low profile garages. Cost: $15 for the bars, $6 for the straps. After using all the methods above, I now use the last mentioned - if you hadn't guessed already. 34 Freewheeling Like me, you may be faced with the four bolts attached the seat to a steel problem of having to take your plate beneath the carrier. A form­ build young offspring along with you on fitting cushion was made out of high bicycle trips. Many people of my density foam. own age can recall being taken on a The seat was. put to the test the bicycle by our mothers, whilst safely next day on a 40 km ride with ·the your own Newcastle Cycleways Movement. Our installed in a wicker seat on the rear. After surveying the .market for ten-month old took to it immediately, suitable seats, it came down to one sitting and commanding a view like 'kiddie-seat' of two alternatives: a rajah in a sedan chair. It was so successful that he telr asleep in it a a rather simple contraption of after lunch. The high enveloping Japanese manufacture, made of sides enable his head to flop back steel frame with hard seat and without going over the sides, The 5- back boards for around $17, or way seat belting made sure he stayed b a 'Troxel' moulded plastic seat at in place. The cushion protected him an exc8llent $49 and a load of design faults. from the four bolts and acted as shock absorber. Unlike other seats A third alternative was suggested by this one can be mounted fairly close my wife's reaction to the cost of to the riders seat which keeps solution to the Troxel seat. Children's car alteration of the bike handling • seats are only $39 brand new. So characteristics to a minimum. This why not use a conventional safety proximity also means that little feet a perp ex1ngcar seat? From the 'For Sale' columns are away from the brakes and spokes. ~ of the paper I obtained a 'Safe-n- The child is also close enough to Sound' moulded plastic car seat - touch the parent which can be very no em the type without the sub-structur_e important for some children. J.. b~ and needs to be attached semi- Discounting the cost of the carrier, P permanently to the car. the seat cost me $15 for the seat With a bit of ingenuity and a proper, and about $1 for the bolts. sturdy carrier (Karrimor) the seat in The wood and steel came from the a matter of an hour or so became a rubbish bin at work. kiddie-seat. A shaped piece of wood We are extremely pleased with our by Chas Coin under the front lip of the seat gave innovation and so we offer you a the seat the right amount of tilt, and solution to a perplexing problem.

Freewheeling 35 stills and music on these pages are from an eight minute colour 16 mm film called Push On by Pat Fiske and Lee Chittick. It is an exuberant attempt to promote the interests of cyclists by covering a bicycle rally over the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Public Transport Day, August 1 1975. The lyrics were written by Colleen Burke, Seamus Gill, Denis Kevans and Declan Affley. It is available for hire at the Sydney Filmmakers Cooperative, St Peter's Lane, Darlinghurst, 31 3237, for $6, price negotiable for schools, environment and cycle groups. 36 Freewheeling A Film by Pat Fiske&Lee Chittick

for verses 1,41 5, 8 Brni°n D G A ~~~v1¥~ 1. Co -me all you who are o . ver-weight and rest • less tired and wea-ry oh just The mot - or lob - by don't ap-prove and dai - ly tries to stop us all with ~ D G D A D --·-1-,~~-==---==-----=;;t:..~-==--1=- -~-----g--~===r;·-1=:==-.._¼-v,__-i:=-#,-"-'--V--v=-----v= -T-_T--:-:-, --~1

Throw your leg a - cross a bike and pe- dal on your way bar - ri cades and toll booth gates and cop-pers in a row. for verses 2, 3 1 6, 7, 9J 10 F# • 8 • ft ·---v1df'-v:=r='l-r--f 1m'"v - 2-=F~

2. Push on Push on and pe-dal on your bi - cy-cle and

A D 'fi''''° Er ~ v TJ1=fJ f µ:= 12] ~ alternative !is - ten to the mus - ic that is hum-ming from your wheels staves

1 O for v;zs_3_>_6_,_7_9_i>-v A G A i~3E~.===--==-~l==~t~-==-=::!__--r~·4~==-~f===t=-=~---f:.::=-== ~==,:.V-==-=-;:::;:::=:-=€~ --~--==i-q

B min

. ting and you Push on Push on its fun and lib - er - a .

G D A D ~ ~ ~ ~ vd ~ ~ v f:=f v ~~-~ : rea ly ought to try it just to know how good it feels ..

3. But we can weave and wander thru their battlements 7. Push on Push on and peddle on to fitness and stop and start turn left or right at will Push on Push on, It's easy if you try for we are free from motorised impediments Push on Push on and laugh at all those prisoners we're young and old and breathing and we're never know to kill. who are tied up in the traffic jams as we go whistling by. 4. The cars are eating London town, Los Angeles and Tokyo 8. They're shutting up the bus stops and they're closing down the stations - o and now they're eating Sydney as they've eaten all the rest we're paying more and getting less each morning we commute There's nothing on the northern side but highways and approaches - o If traffic jams and public trains have sorely tried your patience - o with trucks and cars and coaches, they are filling up the west. then come and ride along with us it's really bloody beaut. 5. On holidays the motor cars are bumper bar to bumber bar to bumper bar 9. Have a look just have a bloody go at them the clouds of smoke are building up from Bondi out to Parkes their nongs, their wrong, just look at what they are Your guts are getting tighter and the tension keeps you smoking - o I wish I had an empty can to throw at them your lungs both need decoking and your eyes are seeing sparks. the bastards keep on passing me in my new motor car. 6. But we can weave and wander thru their battlements 10. Push on Push on and peddle on your bicycle and stop and start turn left or right at will and listen to the music that is humming from your wheels for we are free from motorised impediments Push on Push on it's fun and liberating and you really ought we're young and old and breathing and we're never known to kill. to try it just to know how good it feels.

Freewheeling 37 Lookout! Here comes SPROCKET MAN

Sprocket Man is a safety comic as a teaching aid by secondary funded by the Victorian Department published by the Bicycle Institute school teachers, and be part of the of Youth Sport and Recreation. of Victoria to improve the standard experimental bicycle safety pro­ Copies of the comic are available of bicycle riding in that state as grams being tested for statewide for 25c each to any distributor. well as in Australia as a whole. application in Geelong. It is not This is a nominal charge to cover The American version of this suitable for primary school children postage only. Multiple copies can comic was published in 1975 by the because they cannot cope with be provided at a reduced rate as Urban Scientific and Educational 'motorist type' right hand turns follows: Research Inc (USER) and it was shown on pages 5, 6 and 7 and 2 copies 40c designed for Stanford University they should be instructed to do 5 copies 60c cyclists. box turns. 10 copies $1.00 250 000 have been distributed in The use of comics for traffic 40 copies $2.00 the USA and USER now have a safety education in schools has 100 copies $4.00 contract with the US 'Consumer great potential, but there are legal Send postage stamps to cover Products Safety Commission' to hassles to be overcome. Road law costs except for orders of 100 or revise Sprocket Man for nationwide relating to cyclists is badly in more when a cheque made payable distribution. The Australian version need of revision, and puts the to the BI V should be sent. is nearly the same as the US version BIV, teachers and police in the Copies are obtainable from : but the drawings have been reversed embarrassing position of telling Bicycle Institute of Victoria as Australians drive on the other children to do things that are PO Box 1961 R side of the road and the road technically illegal, but safe. GPO Melbourne markings are different. The printing of the Australian VICTORIA 3001 Sprocket Man will be evaluated edition of Sprocket Man was

38 Freewheeling WAIT 'y'QLJR TURN AT .INTERSECTIONS' • Llheth.er ~ou, Qfe 30L n3 .strQL.3h.t or tLLrncTL3 I ~ft ..... DONT ~SS A CAA ON THE

LEFT'• I•

Dicgelists h.o.ve tLnQl.ly con.\Ji..nced.. people th.C1t bi.Res are NOT toys bu.t VEHICLES. As 'leh.i.des, th.otLqh., bi.Res axe. SUBJEC.T to th.e StQte. veh.i.de code . l.Lnd.er- th.ose 1.a..ws, ~ow- stQtu.s Cl!) b~di..st'.~ i.s : '' EVERY '· PER.SON R.IDlNEl A SIC"J'C.LE UPON 1' ROADWfit,."f ~ f't,.LL THE R.l~HTS ANI) DUTIE.S APPLICABLE. TO TI-\E DRI\/EP. OF A.. \/E.H\CLE. 11 . .So STOP all stop sLgn.s Clnd. 2Lqh.ts ANO OBEY TI-\E RULES OF THE a.tRoAD H __..::!,_ ___ stop...... ;. ______

~ V/CTORI AN LAW .. HIE &ICYCLf /JA Wear Ll~HT VEJHCLf CLOTHING,. lise. REFL EC.T IVE VESTS Qnd/ot" REFLECTIVE TA.PE =: u.ppLi..ecl to clottu..ng. ~ -- Atto.eh. th.ese. to ----bi.Re: , II/ ' \ •~WHITE HEAOLl~HT.

~i-:._...., I RED REAR LiGHT. ~o:::REM RED REFLECTOR • .[&. WHITE OR 'YEU.Ow RE- 'I' FLEC.TOR ON PEDN...S • \ I I, ~I,; ::.o:: YELLOW (IN FP.ONT) ANO ,,, ' 1' RED (IN REAR) SIOE - REFLECTORS. ✓;1(\

Freewheeling 39 Back Issues Make sure you get all the valuable information and ideas offered by Freewheeling by ensuring you have a complete set. Copies of issue no 1 are still available at the re­ commended retail price of $1.00 including postage. Fill out the order form provided in this issue and send with your cheque or money order to publishers. Freewheeling makes a great gift for cycling friends too.

Issue 1 Recreation and Cycling; Bicycle Safety; Bicycle History; Cycle Camping; Ather­ ton Tablelands Touring; Bicycling in India; Tools; Tents; Traffic Jamming; • The bicycle carrier engineered by bike riders You Too Can Dump Your Auto; Bicycle to transport up to three bicycles on any car Politics; Books; NSW & ACT Bike Shops; tow bar. Benefits of Bicycle Transport. • Simple to install - only one bolt to fix. • Rubber lined tube holders to prevent damage. • Lightweight alloy casting. • Carries ladies' bikes up-side-down on the diagonal bar. • Thousands of bike beaks have been tested on Australian roads. • Provision for security locking. Unconditionally guaranteed for three years.

ASK FOR THE KANGAROO BIKE BEAK* AT ALL BICYCLE SHOPS Mfg. & Distributed by Hanley Trading Pty . Ltd., 27 Raymond Avenue, Matraville. 2036. Phone : 666 9675 *patented Freewheeling

40 Freewheeling N,ci 1112hter w .. '"' . I ia you can receive Free wheeling magazine by post at the ·intro ductory price of $3.60 issues including postage. Freewheeli · · "' ,.·. lished fou packe.d YJ.it he)p y , ~- •.,,· i·~

I

Notice to Contributors Well researched articles (preferab ly accompan ied by photos or graphics) are welcomed by the pub I ishecs. The text shou ld be typed double spaced and photographs accom­ panied by suggested captions. Touring articles should be provided with a clear map of the route described. These will be returned to authors after publication. Letters to the publ ishers for the letters section and questions for a forthcoming technica l co lumn are also welcomed. Address all correspondence to the Pub lishers, Free­ wheeling Australia Magazine , PO Box 57, Broadway NSW 2007. REPRODUCTION Copyright of material appearing in this mag azine lies with the ind ividual authors. Permission must be sought .from them before any material is reproduced. Unacknowledged articles orig inate from the Freewheeling ed itorial co ll ect ive who on ly require that an acknowledgement of source - (Reprinted from Freewheeling Australia Magazine , Issue 1) - be given when reproducing. • Speedwell, Ra leigh, Peugeot, Oxford, Bennett, Viscount, Re pco, Malvern Star, Gitane, Swift. • Ha nd Made Cycles • Large range of parts and accessories including racing and touring equip­ ment. • Extensive range of clothing in­ cluding shirts (woolen ), shorts, long pants and shoes. • Expert repairs, servicing and frame building • Repco ergorneters and hea lth equipment • Lay by, terms & bankcard accepted. • Hours of Business: Mon to Fri : 8.30- 5.30 Thurs Night Till : 8.30 Sat : 8.30- 12.30