Sydney: a history of cycling through the decades

We look in the archives to explore how Sydney developed a love for cycling from the 19th century onwards.

In the past year, bike trips at peak times have increased by over 18% across the City of Sydney local area.

And since 2022, we’ve opened new separated cycleways on the following streets:

  • Waterloo: Crystal, Potter and Gadigal streets
  • Erskineville: Macdonald Street, Henderson Road, Railway Parade and Bridge Street. Plus, Ashmore and Harley streets and Mitchell and Huntley streets.
  • City centre: King Street (between Pitt and Phillip), Pitt Street and College Street. Zetland: Portman Street and Zetland Avenue
  • Annandale: Booth Street

Interested in getting on a bike? Check out our program of free cycling courses. They’re designed to give you extra cycling skills and confidence.

Discover more images and information on Sydney's cycling past in our archives.

Posted . Last updated .

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