A training ride that was part of Dubbo’s Tracker Riley Family Bike Day helped give new cyclists confidence on the road, organisers say.
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Roundabouts, intersections and travelling with traffic were part of the experience when the group headed out with enthusiast and accredited lead rider Mick Cooper.
A focus of the day was spreading the message about new laws that came into place on March 1.
One of those requires drivers to leave at least one metre of space when passing a cyclist in 60 km/h zones and less.
About 30 to 40 people braved the cold to attend the bike day on Sunday, Western Plains Regional Council road safety officer Jayne Bleechmore said.
A couple of novices took part in the training ride, alongside Dubbo Bicycle User Group (BUG) members, Ms Bleechmore said.
“Today gave them confidence and it was not confronting for them when they were riding in town with BUG members,” she said.
People attending the day received a free “A Metre Matters” t-shirt.
A few families came out in their bikes, making the most of the Tracker Riley Cycleway.
Participants also enjoyed a barbecue lunch together.
The event was an ideal opportunity to remind users of the rules of shared paths like keeping to the left when walking or cycling, sounding their bicycle bell or calling out when overtaking others and ensuring dogs are kept on leashes, Ms Bleechmore said.
Anyone who was interested but unable to attend on Sunday could attend a future cycling skills presentation by Mr Cooper, Ms Bleechmore said.
The sessions are held at 7pm on the first Monday of each month in ‘The Bike Shed’ at 4 Tudor Place and people can attend without booking.
The presentations includes videos and talks about bike safety, appropriate clothing, how to handle traffic.
Dubbo Bicycle User Group meets every Sunday and all members of the community are welcome to come along.
Dubbo BUG meets at Wahroonga Park at 7.45am for an 8am start.
Under the new laws drivers failing to provide the required overtaking space risk losing two demerit points and a $319 fine.
Bicycle riders are required to stop at red lights or stop signs, give way as indicated by signage and give hand signals when turning right or merging to the right lane.
