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Date: 3/11/2026
Subject: Bike North Chain Reaction 11 March 2026
From: Bike North


11 March 2026	Your Bike North NewsLETTER

Give back to something you value

Every event, ride, new cycleway and newsletter you enjoy happens because members step forward.

This year we’re looking to welcome new voices onto the committee. At the AGM in August Tom and David will be stepping down after more than 15 years of contribution. This is your chance.

The commitment is modest and the rewards are significant: deeper connections, real influence, and the satisfaction of contributing to something we all value.

You don’t need special qualifications — just an interest in the club and a willingness to contribute.

If you’ve ever thought, “Someone should…” — this is your chance to be that someone.

Curious? Have a chat with any committee member or come along to a meeting as a guest.

In coming weeks we will provide more information about the key roles.

David Thomson

President | Bike North

president@bikenorth.org.au

For many of us, riding as part of a group is the first and only time we have ridden with other cyclists in close proximity. Whilst this can be a bit daunting, there is also a special feeling involved in being part of a group.

But how do we do this safely?

There are a number of things involved in safe riding as a group, but here we’ll focus on just one, one being proximity to other bikes. How close should I be to the rider in front of me? This depends on the speed of the group and the environment but most of our rides use shared paths and speeds of up to 25kph.

The first “rule” is DO NOT OVERLAP WHEELS. Often there are potholes and debris on paths and a rider may need to swerve around these. If you front wheel is overlapping another rider’s rear wheel this could cause a collision and bring both riders down. Remember, “Clash and Crash”. You should be a “comfortable” distance from the rider in front to allow you to brake or manoeuvrer around hazards and pedestrians.

At “normal” Bike North speeds this could be around two meters but will vary given the environment and pace. Don’t fall too far behind the group, especially on roads. This could encourage a car to try to squeeze through the gap. A few seconds of extra effort to make contact with the group will contribute to your safety.

Occasionally, you may need to pass another member of the group. We ask that cars give us a meter clearance when passing so why not try to give your fellow riders at least the same courtesy? It is essential that you call “passing right” to inform the other rider what is happening.

It is rare that passing on the left is acceptable but, if there is no other option, again call what you are doing.

So, in summary,

DO NOT OVERLAP WHEELS.

Keep a comfortable distance from the rider in front of you.

Try to give riders a meter of clearance when passing.

Always call when overtaking

Brian Lynne

Rides Coordinator | Bike North

www.bikenorth.org.au

TdC - There’s Fun Off the Bike Too!

The Tour de Cowra offers camaraderie both on and off the bike.

It is a given that there will be wonderful cycling at TdC2026. But what has made the Tour de Cowra so popular since its inception in 2001, is the range of off-bike activities, both organised and impromptu.

With a shared enthusiasm for cycling and for exploring country New South Wales, a camaraderie naturally develops whether during pre-ride briefings, the telling of tall tales aprés-ride, and or over the course of an evening meal.

At TdC2026, we have created a programme of inclusive, fun activities for everyone to enjoy.

There are opportunities to renew old acquaintances or strike up new friendships over wine and cheese, a meal or picnic!

Full details of both the rides and off-bike events can be found on the website www.bikenorth.org.au/Your_de_Cowra. Updates and reminders will be made each morning at the briefing session at the Rose Garden Café.

We look forward to meeting and getting to know you over the Easter weekend at Cowra!

Tour de Cowra committee

cowra@bikenorth.org.au

Ride Leader Interview

Roger Pottie

What is your favourite ride?

My favourite is the Summer Hill Circle. Starting from Meadowbank, the ride winds through Concord, Five Dock then on to the Bay Run and Hawthorne Canal. Briefly onto the Greenway, then Summer Hill for coffee at BarCycle (see below). Then the best part – the back streets of Summer Hill and the beautiful Federation homes and other properties. Then over the “hill” and down to the Cooks River cycleway to head back to Meadowbank.

What do you love about cycling?

Cycling is great for exercise – far more interesting than running, which I used to do when I was young. A wise friend once told me I would regret running when I got older because of the strain on my knees – and so I purchased the first of many bikes and have never looked back.

We all have a favourite coffee stop. What is yours?

BarCycle at Summer Hill is my favourite. Unmistakably for the bike rider with bikes and parts on display, Albert makes a good brew and is always welcoming.

Do you have a pet peeve about cycling?

No.

Is there one thing you want new riders to know?

One thing I like new riders to know is that we should always ride as a cohesive group. Keep together behind the leader and in front of the sweep and enjoy the ride.

How did you come to join Bike North?

I found Bike North on the internet.

How has cycling changed your life?

I enjoy bike riding and the company of other riders.

What is your current job or, if retired what did you do?

I am well and truly retired. I was an accountant and have worked mainly in the construction / engineering industry.

What is something that most BN members wouldn't know about you?

I have been involved in the sport of sailing most of my life although not as often these days. I continue to be a keen golfer.

Interviewed by

Brian Lynne

Rides coordinator | Bike North

www.bikenorth.org.au

Big Rides Day

The next Big Rides Day will be held on Sunday 19 April 2026. Put the date in your diary now and keep an eye on the Calendar to register for a ride.

Your favourite ride

Why not tell us about your favourite ride and we will share it with the club in an upcoming edition of Chain Reaction. Click here to share.

CHAIN REACTION ARTICLE DEADLINE

Bike North members are keen to hear about your rides and ideas. Send your article to editor@bikenorth.org.au by 1.00pm each Tuesday for publication in our weekly newsletter Chain Reaction or for your article to be added to our News library.
Before sending your ideas please read the Guidelines for Contributors.

Submit your article

BICYCLE NSW DISCOUNT

Did you know that membership of Bike North entitles you to a 15% discount on a membership to Bicycle NSW? Use code 15NORTH when you join or renew. Bicycle NSW members receive global, comprehensive (personal accident and public liability) rider insurance and a range of other benefits as well as advocacy and legal support.

Find out more