By Trevor Costa

Bicycle riding in ACT parks and reserves has become a recent addition to NPA ACT’s regular outings program.

While some may question whether bikes should be permitted in such areas because of the potential impact on fragile landscapes, it is emphasised that cycling is restricted to maintenance tracks and fire trails, and areas already used by vehicles or designated multi-use tracks shared by cyclists and walkers. 

Bicycle riding and touring in natural landscapes, such as offered by protected areas is not new, and has a long tradition. The benefits include close contact with the elements and surrounding environment, fitness and access to places to camp or for a day visit, or just to access and appreciate more isolated areas that may be a long haul by foot.

If time and distance are a factor, a capable off-road bicycle can cover those aspects easily if the rider is fit and skilled enough to meet the challenges.

Photo by Trevor Costa

A game changer for off road cycling has been the introduction and continued technological advances of electric mountain bikes (EMTBs). With increasingly lighter EMTBs becoming available with greater battery range, the assisted pedal power through the electric engine means these machines are well suited to parks and reserves that have steep topography.

They are competent and agile mountain climbers. For Namadgi National Park and nature reserves such as Tidbinbilla, the ability of an EMTB to tackle steep fire trails makes back country touring and day trips in these protected areas far more accessible. 

But with increased accessibility in range offered by cycling in protected areas of course comes even greater responsibility to care for the environment during your visit. This responsibility is inherent in most if not all who choose to straddle an off-road bicycle, no matter what variety – gravel bike, mountain bike, fat bike, hybrid or EMTB with the aim of experiencing the wonders that our ACT protected areas have to offer.

Check out the events calendar for information on future outings.

Trevor Costa is an NPA member and a keen mountain biker. He has organised and led several cycling outings in ACT parks and reserves.