“Spring Cycle is the only bike ride that crosses the main deck of the Sydney Harbour Bridge,” says Peter McLean, CEO of Bicycle NSW, Spring Cycle’s organisers.

“We’re shutting down Australia’s shortest highway, but also one of its busiest highways for this ride.”

That alone is reason enough to sign up for either the Spring Cycle’s 10km or 50km routes on 12 October 2025.

“It’s an extremely fun ride, extremely scenic,” Peter added. “It’s about getting out and enjoying the positive vibes and also raising money for an important mental health charity such as Lifeline.”

Supporting Lifeline is another great reason to sign up for Spring Cycle. The chronically underfunded charity gets more than 1 million calls per year. Despite the untold deaths that Lifeline helps prevent, nine Australians still die every day by suicide.

Expect every kind of rider

Peter himself is an avid rider and former professional cyclist. As you might expect from the CEO of Bicycle NSW, he has no fewer than 10 bikes in his household. These days, his preferred rides are either an e-cargo bike that accommodates the kids and groceries, or his vintage fixie with its 50-year-old steel frame.

Ask him which bike is his favourite, though, and he can't choose.

“I have to say I don’t have a favourite. It’s like trying to choose your favourite child, which you’d never do.”

Like every event, Spring Cycle suffered through COVID and was last held in 2022. Peter says absence has made hearts grow fonder, and registrations are already 50% higher than at this time in 2022.

All kinds of riders come out for this event. “I wouldn't be surprised to see someone on a penny farthing, and definitely someone on a unicycle as well. There will be people on all sort of mobility-assisted vehicles, too.

“There will be some blind riders there. And lots of kids and families.”

Our two cents

Andrea & Dave here at CycleHub think Spring Cycle is unmissable because it's your only opportunity to cycle across the main deck of the Harbour Bridge without getting run over by multiple vehicles. It'll make for a great day out.

Quick-fire Q&A

What to expect on the day?

The Spring Cycle is your only opportunity to ride across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and through the city's streets on a car-free route. The event is a community bike ride that attracts thousands of participants, creating a distinct atmosphere. It is not a race, and the focus is on participation and supporting a charitable cause.

Are kids welcome?

Yes, children are welcome at the Spring Cycle. The 10km ride is designed to be accessible for families and novice riders. Children can participate on their own bikes as long as they meet the minimum age requirements of 8 years for the 10km ride or 12 years for the 50km ride. Younger children can join on a child seat, trailer, or tag-along with a parent. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Is the Spring Cycle a race?

No, the Spring Cycle is not a race. It is a recreational cycling event with a focus on community and participation. It is not timed, and riders are encouraged to ride at a comfortable pace.

What should I bring?

For the ride, you must have a bike in good working condition and an Australian Standards-approved helmet. You will also need your rider pack, which includes your ride number and wristband. We recommend bringing extra layers of clothing for the potentially cool morning, along with a water bottle, snacks, and a basic repair kit in case of a flat tire.

Where do I get my rider pack?

Rider packs are mailed to early registrants, but may need to be collected on the day if you register late.

How to be organised on the day?

To ensure a smooth start, pack all your gear the night before. Arriving at the starting point at St Leonards Park at least 30 minutes before your scheduled start time.

How do I get to the event and get home?

The event provides free public transport for all participants. The starting point at St Leonards Park in North Sydney is easily accessible from the North Sydney Train Station. The 10km ride finishes at Pirrama Park, which is a short walk from Town Hall Station, while the 50km ride finishes at Sydney Olympic Park, with train services available from the Olympic Park Station. Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink Intercity services allow bicycles to be brought on board at any time, free of charge, as long as there is space available.

What's happening at the finish lines?

Both finish line locations host a festival-style event. The 10km ride concludes at Pirrama Park in Pyrmont, where you can find food and coffee vendors, along with a play area for children. The 50km ride finishes at Cathy Freeman Park in Sydney Olympic Park, where there are food trucks and entertainment.

Near the Pirrama Park finish line, what can I do afterwards?

After completing your ride, Pirrama Park is an ideal spot to relax and take in the beautiful waterfront views. If you're looking for a great place to eat, consider Elements Bar & Grill for high-quality steaks and seafood, or Pioik Bakery for coffee and treats, plus some amazing fresh-baked bread.

Beyond dining, you can take a leisurely stroll to explore the historic Jones Bay Wharf, which offers a glimpse into the area's maritime past and has a great atmosphere. The Pyrmont Bridge is also an excellent option for a walk, providing scenic views of Darling Harbour and the city skyline.

Got questions? Ping us any time at inbox@cyclehub.com.au. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Cyclehub newsletter for more tips, stories and ride‑day hacks.