There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes, is the message to Melburnians wondering if they should get their bikes out again during COVID lockdown 2.0.
Bike riding boomed during the first coronavirus lockdown, but just because the weather will be cooler the second time around that doesn’t mean families can’t get out for a daily bike ride or frontline workers can’t commute by bike.
Bicycle Network CEO Craig Richards said that bike riding in winter is just as easy as warmer months and that bikes can be the thing that gets us through the second lockdown.
“It’s easy to combat the cooler weather when going for a bike ride. All you need to do is layer up and maybe wear a pair of gloves to keep your fingers warm,” said Mr Richards.
“There’s a Norwegian saying that translates to there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes. If Norwegians can ride when it’s minus 15, we can ride when it’s 15.”
Counts of bike riders in Melbourne during the first COVID-19 lockdown showed an increase of up to 300 per cent on some routes, including the Moonee Ponds Creek trail, Maribyrnong River Trail and Gardiners Creek trail.
“Melburnians rediscovered the joy, freedom and stress relief of bike riding during the first lockdown. If you’re ever feeling stressed or anxious about the world then heading out for a ride can be very helpful.”
To help people who might have only started riding during the first COVID-19 lockdown, Bicycle Network has released a bike essentials kit with lights, a waterproof bag cover, bike service voucher and a Rider Rescue roadside assist subscription.
“Thousands of people have bought new bikes since the COVID-19 pandemic began, but they may not have the little things that can make riding easier.”
“Our bike essentials kit will help people if they’re riding when it’s dark, damp or their bike needs a bit of love,” added Mr Richards.
Valued at more than $100, Bicycle Network’s bike essentials kit is available for $65 including postage.
Get your kit nowBicycle Network’s tips for riding during COVID-19 lockdown 2.0
- Remember the Norwegian saying det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær (there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes).
- Layers are your friend – a thermal undershirt and second pair of socks make every day a great day for a ride
- Remember to bring some bike lights if riding when it’s dark. You need a white light on the front of your bike and a red light on the back. Both lights need to be visible from 200 metres away.
- Current restrictions mean you can go for a ride with people you live with or with one other person
- You can ride in different suburbs and council areas, but you cannot leave the Melbourne metropolitan area
- You can ride for fun, for exercise or to work or the shops
- You should maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 metres from other people and be sensible when planning the length of your trip.