Cycling in Marrickville
Marrickville Council is committed to promoting environmentally-friendly forms of transport, particularly cycling.
Council has developed and is continually upgrading a range of on-road cycling facilities to make streets in Marrickville safer and easier for bicycle riders to use.
A range of off-road cycling facilities also exist. These paths enable riders to travel on a paved surface without interference from vehicles.
Bicycle parking racks are provided at various locations throughout the area.
Cycling maps
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Staying Active in Marrickville Map (PDF)
Includes on-road and off-road cycling routes (marked in blue) in the Marrickville area, as well as transit stops, walking tracks, accessible pedestrian pathways, and bicycle parking.
Please note that new and upgraded cycle routes have been implemented since this map was produced. A new active transport guide and a separate new cycling map will soon be available.
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Ryde to Botany Bay Cycle Route (PDF)
Cycle route from Settlers Park in Ryde to Tempe Reserve. The majority of this 23km route is off-road, and includes the recently upgraded Cooks River Cycleway. Connects at its eastern end to the Alexandria Canal cycleway and to the Tempe-Kurnell route.
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Tempe to Kurnell Bicycle Route (PDF)
Cycle route from Tempe Reserve to Captain Cook's Landing in Kurnell. The section from Tempe to Tarens Point Bridge is almost entirely off-road, beginning at the Cooks River Cycleway and running along the length of the Botany Bay foreshore to Sandringham. The route is grade-separated from busy Marsh Street and General Holmes Drive via a pair of underpasses. An excellent route for commuters and recreational riders alike.
Tips for bicycle riders
In the state of NSW, bicycle riders are required by law to:
- obey the road rules like motorists;
- not ride on footpaths (unless permitted by a sign), except for children under 12 and those accompanying them;
- always use hand signals if they intend to turn or change lanes to the right;
- walk their bike - not ride - across a pedestrian crossing; and
- wear a well-fitting, Australian Standards-approved helmet.
Where a marked bicycle lane doesn't exist, bicycles are entitled to use a whole traffic lane and may also travel two abreast (i.e. side-by-side). Bicycle riders are also allowed to use bus lanes and transit lanes (but not "bus only" lanes).
All bikes must be fitted with:
- a bell or warning device;
- at least one working brake; and
- if riding at night: front and rear lights (solid or flashing) and front and rear reflectors.
Other useful accessories include a luggage rack and panniers for commuting, bright clothing for low-light riding, and a sturdy bike lock.
Keep your bike well maintained by:
- regularly checking your tyres, wheels, brakes, chains, lights and reflectors to make sure they are in good working order; and
- taking your bicycle to a bike shop at least once a year to be checked.
On your bike - the road is there to share with motorists and pedestrians. Be Safe, Be Smart, Be Seen.
- Give way to pedestrians on shared paths, and keep to the left unless passing.
- When using a shared path, travel at a speed that promotes safety for other shared path users and allows you to stop safely if necessary. Be particularly careful around young children and pets as they may change directions unpredictably.
- When using a shared path, politely ring your bell well in advance when approaching pedestrians who may not have seen you.
In your cars - the road is there to share with bike riders and pedestrians. Be Safe, Be Smart, Think Bikes.
- Before opening your car door, check your mirrors and over your shoulder to ensure you do not open your door into the path of a bicycle rider. This can be dangerous and legally your fault.
- Many accidents have involved drivers cutting off a bicycle to change lanes or turn across their path. Take extra care at intersections when turning, and be careful not to underestimate their speed - bicycles can often travel at car-like speeds in urban areas, and it takes bicycles longer than cars to come to a complete stop.
- Bicycle riders may need to travel using the full width of the lane at certain times, due to debris, rough road edges, obstruction of bicycle lanes or a number of other reasons. Be courteous and patient.
- When entering or leaving a driveway, give way to pedestrians and bicycle riders. Do not obstruct a bicycle lane or cycleway.
- Give bike riders plenty of room when overtaking - at least 1 metre in a 50km/h zone, and more at higher speeds.
Marrickville Bicycle Strategy and implementation
Council adopted the Marrickville Bicycle Strategy in 2007 following extensive community consultation.
The Strategy encompasses:
1. A bicycle network plan
2. A bicycle parking plan
3. Better integration with public transport
4. Bicycle friendly streets and neighbourhoods
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Bicycle Strategy
For further details, or to download the full strategy visit the Bicycle Strategy page on our website. -
Implementing the Bicycle Strategy
Visit the Your Council at Work section to find out more about upcoming and completed works on local cycleways.
The Green Living Centre Bike Library
Need to rent a cargo bike? The Green Living Centre's Bike Library has a fleet of cargo bikes and trailers available for loan to allow people to carry things that might otherwise require a car.
The Green Living Centre is a joint initiative of the City of Sydney and Marrickville Council.
Cycling links
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SydneyCycleways.net
A web portal hosted by the City of Sydney. Resources include cycling maps to help plan your route through the inner city and surrounding areas, news updates, and general information on urban cycling.
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Bike Marrickville (formerly MASSBUG)
Local bicycle group covering Marrickville and former South Sydney Council areas.
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Bike Bus
A bike bus is a group of people who cycle to work in a group. It's called a "bus" because there is a set route and timetable so it can pick up more passengers along the way.
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Bicycle NSW
A not-for-profit peak body providing advice, insurance, ride events, bike shop discounts and the Australian Cyclist magazine to members
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Cycling Promotion Fund
Established by the Australian bicycle industry, this organisation lobbies governments for improved conditions for cycling.
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Sydney Community College
Offers short affordable cycling courses to improve your skills and confidence in riding a bike.
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Cycling Resource Centre
A cycling information website, hosted by the Australian Bicycle Council and Austroads.