This map has been produced to let cyclists knowwhere the riding facilities are in these areas. Themap shows the location of existing on-road andoff-road cycling routes and facilities. The map alsooffers you a general guide to the likely difficulty youshould expect to experience on particular roads inthe region.

The cycleways map is like a street directory forcyclists. It helps you choose a suitable route forbicycle trips to work or school, the shops or thepark. Railway stations are also shown to help youplan longer trips without the need for a car!

Keep in mind your safety and obey all road rules.Remember, riding defensively and staying alert at all times will help to make your cycling safer andmore enjoyable.

Main features of the cycleways mapSHARED PATHSThese are paths built specifically to beshared with other cyclists and pedestrians.Shared paths are signposted and markedaccordingly so that you can tell if you aremeant to share the path with pedestrians.

Keep in mind that as a cyclist the law requiresyou to ride to the left of the path and givepedestrians priority. Take care when you are crossing roads andwatch out for motor vehicles.

ON-ROAD FACILITIESOn-road bicycle facilities include bike lanes, sealed shoulders orsimply adequate road space to share with other traffic.Thesefacilities have been marked with bicycle signs and/or bicyclelogos to show the route.

On-road difficulty ratingsThe map gives you a guide to the levels of difficulty you arenormally likely to find when cycling along these routes. Ofcourse, traffic and weather conditions can make your ridemore difficult.

GREEN: LOW DIFFICULTY ON-ROAD ROUTESGreen routes are generally low difficulty routes.These routes aresuitable for young and inexperienced riders. They are generallywell connected with other streets and cycle routes. Lots ofconnections also means lots of intersections so take care!

PURPLE: MODERATE DIFFICULTY ON-ROAD ROUTESPurple or moderate difficulty routes have more traffic thanlow difficulty routes and you will find that riding them is morechallenging. Purple routes mainly have one lane of traffic ineach direction with a parking lane as well.

BROWN: HIGH DIFFICULTY ON-ROAD ROUTESBrown or high difficulty routes are the most challenging andshould only be used by experienced cyclists. When you usethese routes you will often be sharing the road with a highvolume of cars, trucks etc. Brown routes generally have morethan one lane of traffic in each direction.

Remember you are the best judge of the most suitable cycleroute for your needs based on your skill and fitness level, andon your comfort in different traffic situations.

INTERSECTIONSYou should be extremely careful at all intersections. Make surethat drivers and other road users see you (eye contact). Giveclear hand whenever you are turning or changing lanes soother road users know what you are doing.

CYCLIST HAZARDSThese include railway crossings, bridges and locations wherethe road suddenly narrows and the cyclist is forced into a‘squeeze’ situation. Keep alert at these points.

HILLSWhere you see this symbol >>>>> on the map expect a hillor incline! The colour of the symbol will vary with the route difficulty rating.

BIKE PARKINGLocations where there are secure bicycle parking facilitiesprovided are shown by a .

For details on how to hire a bike locker at a railway station,phone Bicycle NSW on (02) 9281 4099.

PLANNING A JOURNEYIt is useful to mark the start and end of your trip on themap and choose a bike route linking the two. Keep in mindthat the route chosen should reflect your riding capability and preferences.

OTHER CYCLEWAYS MAPSThe RTA produces Cycleways Maps for the Newcastle,Central Coast, Illawarra and Sydney regions.

To obtain free copies, phone 1800 06 06 07.

How to use this map

Sydney and ParramattaYour guide to cycling from Parramatta to Sydney’s inner western and eastern suburbs and the lower north shore.