When a Child is Reluctant to Learn to Ride: Tips and Approaches for Parents
Supporting a reluctant child in learning to ride can feel challenging, but at Pedal Set Go, our Sydney bike lessons for kids are tailored to help each child build confidence at their own pace. From selecting the right bike size to creating a comfortable environment, we focus on emotional and physical comfort to make riding enjoyable. Our expert instructors work with families to establish a “little and often” practice routine—just 10–15 minutes a day—to reinforce new skills. With a focus on small, steady progress, we aim to make learning to ride a bike in Sydney a positive and achievable experience for every child.
Learning to ride a bike is a milestone that many parents look forward to, but what happens when your child doesn’t share the same enthusiasm? It’s not uncommon for kids to feel reluctant about learning to ride. At Pedal Set Go, we work with families across Sydney and often encounter kids who are hesitant to hop on a bike. Here, we’ll explore some of the common reasons behind this reluctance and share tips for making the experience positive and pressure-free for everyone involved.
Understanding Reluctance: Why Some Kids Don’t Want to Learn to Ride
Reluctance to learn to ride a bike can stem from various reasons, often related to a child’s age, past experiences, or sensory preferences. Here are some of the more common reasons we see:
Embarrassment about not knowing how to ride: In a world where kids are quick to learn new skills, some children may feel embarrassed if they’re not riding by a certain age.
A bad experience: Perhaps they’ve had a previous fall, a frightening moment, or pressure to excel, which can create lingering fears.
Physical discomfort or sensory issues: Some children feel uncomfortable with certain aspects of bike riding, like an ill-fitting seat or unfamiliar helmet.
Fear of falling: Learning to ride involves a sense of risk, and for some children, fear of falling or getting hurt can hold them back.
Feeling watched or judged: If your child is self-conscious, the idea of riding in front of others can heighten their reluctance.
Simply not interested: Sometimes, riding just doesn’t capture a child’s interest, and that’s okay too.
A Supportive Approach to Bike Riding Lessons in Sydney
At Pedal Set Go, our goal is to create an inclusive, encouraging environment for all people, especially those feeling hesitant. Our bike riding lessons in Sydney are tailored to each person’s pace and comfort, and we work in quieter, low-walking or vehicle traffic free areas to help kids feel at ease.
Tips for Helping a Reluctant Child Learn to Ride
Choose the Right Setting: A calm, supportive environment can make a big difference for kids who feel embarrassed or self-conscious. By choosing quiet locations away from busy paths, we reduce any sense of being "on display," which can ease embarrassment and allow kids to relax.
Consider a Joint Learning Approach: Sometimes, the presence of a parent can be reassuring, while at other times, it may add pressure. Our instructors are trained to read the situation and often suggest that parents step away for a bit during the lesson. We all hold current working with children checks. Alternatively, if a child is more comfortable with their parent close by, we can include the parent in the lesson, making it a shared learning experience. We even offer to adjust the parent’s bike (like removing pedals) to keep the focus on the child’s progress.
Explore the Right Timing: It’s worth considering if your child feels ready and if learning to ride is the right step for them right now. If they’re genuinely not interested or seem overwhelmed, it may be worth waiting a little longer before trying again. Sometimes, readiness is all it takes to make the experience positive. Being around other riders without the pressure to be involved can often plant the seed of wanting to experience bike riding.
Prioritising Emotional Comfort: We know that kids don’t need every aspect of the bike adjusted for peak performance or speed, like an Olympic cyclist. Instead, setting up the bike for emotional comfort is key. Sometimes a bike that’s slightly smaller or a seat that’s a bit lower can help a child feel more stable, making it easier to build confidence without feeling overwhelmed by height or control issues. Avoid purchasing a bike for your child to "grow into," as this often adds to feelings of instability and reluctance.
Address Physical Comfort: Ensuring that the bike and helmet fit well and feel comfortable can remove some sensory obstacles. At Pedal Set Go, we can assist in setting up your child’s bike or offer bike and helmet hire and make adjustments as needed to create the most comfortable setup for each child.
Allow for Small, Steady Progress: Learning to ride isn’t an all-or-nothing skill, and sometimes it’s the small wins—balancing for a few moments, coasting for the first time—that build a child’s confidence over time. We recommend purchasing a bike for your child to learn on rather than hiring one, as having their own bike encourages consistency and comfort. After the first lesson, parents will understand how to support their child’s progress, and we suggest short, frequent practice sessions—about 10–15 minutes a day. This "little and often" approach makes learning enjoyable and reinforces new skills without overwhelming them.
When a Child Is Reluctant: Parental Considerations
It’s only natural to want to see your child riding confidently, but it’s also important to check in with your own motivations. Consider if this is something your child truly wants, or if they may be feeling pressured. By keeping the experience light and encouraging, you’re more likely to help them develop a positive association with riding.
Our Commitment to Kids’ Bike Lessons in Sydney
At Pedal Set Go, we’re passionate about making bike riding accessible and enjoyable for everybody. Whether your child is eager or hesitant, our experienced instructors in Sydney are here to support them through each stage of learning, ensuring a positive, confidence-building experience tailored to their needs.
If you’d like to learn more about our kids’ bike lessons in Sydney or book a session, feel free to get in touch. We’re here to help your child find joy in riding when the time is right for them.
Urban Cycling: Join Pedal Set Go’s Confident City Rider Course in Sydney
Welcome to Pedal Set Go, where we turn the challenges of urban biking into life changing opportunities. Our Confident City Rider Course is uniquely designed for those looking to enhance their skills and safety while riding in the city. It’s more than just bike wisdom—it’s about becoming a vital part of the thriving Sydney bike community. Connecting people to places is what we do well.
See and Be Seen
In city biking, visibility is crucial. Our course teaches the importance of being visible to other road users through high visibility behaviour and strategic positioning. This ensures that you are not only seeing but also being seen, a fundamental aspect of safe urban cycling. We will also cover the use of lights and reflective clothing.
Ride Predictably & Communicate Effectively with Other Road Users
At Pedal Set Go, we emphasise the importance of predictable riding. This involves using hand signals consistently, making eye contact with other drivers and riders, and understanding the flow of city traffic. Riding predictably reduces confusion and enhances safety, making our training an essential choice for anyone searching for a Cycling in the City Course Sydney. Other cycle training options generally focus on cycling for sport rather than negotiating urban streets and traffic conditions.
Effective communication is key to smooth and safe city riding. Our courses go beyond hand signals; we teach you how to convey your intentions clearly and foster positive interactions, enhancing harmony and safety on your rides. As you become part of the community, you start to realise how good it is to be out and about on the streets as you bike Sydney.
Ride with Grace
Sharing the road in the city means interacting with a diverse mix of road users. Our training encourages you to ride with grace—being considerate, yielding when necessary, and always showing patience and respect. This approach is crucial in maintaining a cooperative environment on busy city streets. And remember, if you feel good, not angry or upset, you have enhanced decision making—something that helps you manage risk and stay safe.
Confident Bike Control
The Confident City Rider Course teaches not only basic riding but also how to control your bike with precision in any urban situation. Whether reacting to sudden stops or navigating tight spaces, we equip you with the skills for quick and safe responses.
Smart Route Selection
Selecting the right route is critical and should reflect your skill and comfort levels. All of our cycling programs cover tools for helping you with planning and route selection. Sydney offers a multitude of cycling paths, and with tools like City Mapper, you can find the ideal route quickly. There’s always a path that will make your journey smoother and safer.
Refresher Courses for Every Rider
During our Confident City Rider Course we do a quick bike control skills session. This is the fast version of our Back On Your Bike Course which is perfect for rusty riders and people that have not ridden in a while and those looking to refresh their skills at a relaxed pace. We design courses for riders of all levels, Courses ensure that every journey is safe, enjoyable, and filled with confidence.
At Pedal Set Go, you gain more than just biking skills; you become an integral part of a community that values safety, respect, and the joy of biking. Unlike other programs, Pedal Set Go provides a personalised, community-focused experience that equips you to be a truly confident city rider.
Join the Pedal Set Go Family
We don't just teach people to ride, we teach people to ride better! Are you prepared to go beyond being bike-wise? Join us at Pedal Set Go for our Confident City Rider Course and embrace your place in Sydney’s vibrant and inclusive biking community. We promise your experience cycling in the city will be taken to a whole new level. Our testimonials include “life changing” Contact us to learn more and register for your course today!
Discover the Best Way to Learn to Ride a Bike in Sydney with Pedal Set Go
Looking to learn to ride a bike in Sydney but unsure where to start? Discover Pedal Set Go, Sydney's premier bike education hub, offering professional, safe, and inclusive training for all ages. With a focus on proper technique, safety, and confidence-building, we're dedicated to helping you. Unlike traditional methods that can often lead to frustration and falls, our expert instructors utilise the UK National Standards for bike training, ensuring a no-falls, fun learning experience. Say goodbye to the fear of falling and hello to the joy of riding with Pedal Set Go, where every journey begins with the right support.
Are you searching for the perfect spot to learn to ride a bike in Sydney? Whether you're starting your cycling journey or encouraging a loved one to take up bike riding, finding the right place and guidance is crucial. Sydney, a bustling city vying for space, offers limited areas ideal for beginners. That's where Pedal Set Go comes into play, providing professional, patient, and inclusive bike training for all ages. Let's explore why choosing professionals like Pedal Set Go is your best bet for learning to ride a bike in Sydney.
The Importance of Professional Bike Training
Learning to ride a bike is an exciting milestone, but it can also be filled with challenges and safety concerns. Here's why professional instruction from Pedal Set Go can make all the difference:
Experience and Patience: Unlike learning from a family member or friend, professional instructors bring a wealth of experience and a patience that ensures a positive and encouraging learning environment.
Safety First: At Pedal Set Go, safety isn't just a priority; it's a foundation of our teaching method. We focus on establishing good habits from the start, such as a comfortable seat height and the correct way to use brakes for mounting, dismounting, controlling speed, and stopping safely.
No Falls: Falling off isn't part of our program. Our method starts with the basics, gradually progressing to ensure you're confident and in control at every step.
Ideal Learning Environments: Finding a flat, good surface in Sydney can be challenging. We specialise in the Inner West, confident in our selection of locations like hard court surfaces, which are perfect for beginners. Our spots are generally free from the hustle and bustle, ensuring a distraction-free learning experience.
Why Seat Height and Brakes Matter
Often, inexperienced teachers or well-meaning friends might set the bike seat too high, leading to fear and a higher risk of falls. At Pedal Set Go, we start with the seat low, enabling better control and a smoother transition to pedaling. Understanding and using brakes effectively is another critical aspect of our training, ensuring you can stop safely and handle emergencies confidently.
The Pedal Set Go Difference
Pedal Set Go is among the few in Sydney that adhere to the UK National Standards for bike training, as well as specialising in adult learners. Our inclusive approach means we cater to everybody, regardless of your starting point. We believe in a no-pressure environment, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
No Training Wheels: Training wheels can actually slow down the learning process. We transform bikes into balance bikes, promoting quicker learning of balance and control. If you've been advised to start with training wheels and don't have a specific disability that necessitates them, we recommend seeking instruction that aligns with best practices in bike education.
In Sydney, where every square inch counts, Pedal Set Go stands out with its commitment to quality, safety, and inclusivity in bike training. Whether you're looking to navigate the city's streets confidently or simply enjoy a ride in the park, our professional instructors are here to guide you every pedal of the way.
Ready to embark on your cycling journey with us? Contact us to learn more about our programs and book your first session. In Sydney, learning to ride a bike is not just about finding the right path but starting the journey with the right guide.
Beyond Bright Colours: A Guide to High Visibility Behaviour for Urban Riders
Discover the essence of safe cycling with Pedal Set Go's guide to High Visibility Behaviour. Learn how strategic positioning and proactive engagement can enhance your visibility more effectively than high-visibility clothing alone. Dive into our insights on maximising safety through behaviour, not just gear, in urban cycling environments. Embrace tips for smart positioning, active engagement, and adapting visibility in challenging conditions. Join our journey towards a safer cycling culture in bustling cityscapes.
Navigating city streets safely on a bike goes beyond sporting neon gear. Pedal Set Go champions High Visibility behaviour, a comprehensive approach ensuring bike riders are not just seen, but noticed, by all road users. This guide delves into effective cycling behaviours and practical tips for maximising visibility and safety in urban environments.
Rethinking High Visibility Clothing
While high-visibility gear plays a role in road safety, especially in low-light conditions, reliance solely on bright clothing is insufficient for urban cycling. Emerging research suggests that in bustling cityscapes, such attire might blend into a sea of distractions, diminishing its intended effect.
Recent studies indicate that the effectiveness of high-visibility clothing for cyclists might not hinge on the clothing itself, but on its contrast with the surroundings. Surprisingly, both white and black attire have been identified as capable of providing this necessary contrast.
People riding are encouraged to complement their bike gear with lights and reflective accessories during rain, dusk, or under dappled light conditions. Yet, the essence of being seen lies in behaviour over wardrobe choices.
The Essence of Cycling Safety: High Visibility Behaviour
Effective visibility on the road stems from High Visibility behaviour, which encompasses strategic positioning, like taking the primary position or 'taking the lane,' to ensure visibility where road users are most attentive. This behaviour enhances predictability and communication with other road users, which are crucial for safe urban cycling.
Strategies for High Visibility Behaviour
Smart Positioning: Ride confidently in the centre of the lane, especially in areas with parked cars, to avoid the door zone and ensure you're in the direct line of sight of both motorists and others wanting to enter and use the road space.
Active Engagement: Make eye contact, use clear hand signals, and occasionally, a smile or wave can significantly enhance your visibility to others.
Weather-Adapted Visibility: In poor visibility conditions, ensure your bike is equipped with efficient front and rear lights, and consider flashing lights or wearing reflective items that attract attention without relying solely on high-visibility clothing.
Beyond Gear: A Call for Shared Road Vigilance
Promoting a culture of safety involves recognising that high-visibility clothing is not a foolproof solution. It's a shared responsibility among all road users to maintain vigilance and support a safe environment. This perspective encourages a shift from focusing solely on what people wear to how they can actively engage in safe riding practices.
Incorporating urban cycling safety tips and effective riding behaviours into your routine can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, making city streets safer for everybody.
Conclusion
Embracing High Visibility Behaviour is pivotal for cyclists' safety in urban landscapes. It's about making informed choices—from the strategic use of bike lights to adopting road positions that ensure maximum visibility. At Pedal Set Go, we're committed to educating cyclists on safe riding practices, emphasising behaviour as the cornerstone of visibility and safety on the road.
We invite you to join the conversation. Share your experiences, tips, and thoughts on enhancing visibility and safety while cycling in the city. Together, we can foster a safer, more inclusive urban environment.
Pedal Set Go: Sydney's Industry Leaders in Bicycle Education and More
At Pedal Set Go, we're not just industry leaders in bicycle education in Sydney; we're pioneers in fostering an inclusive cycling community. With our expert-led training, tailored to meet the needs of every rider, we break down barriers to cycling, ensuring it's accessible to all. Our specialised workplace cycling courses promote a sustainable and healthy corporate culture, while our maintenance courses empower you with the knowledge to keep your bike in peak condition. We're not just teaching you to ride; we're inviting you to join a movement that values education, inclusivity, and the joy of cycling. Choose Pedal Set Go for an experience that goes beyond the ride.
At Pedal Set Go, we're not just about bikes; we're about fostering a diverse, empowered community of bike riders across Sydney. As industry leaders in bicycle education, we pride ourselves on offering a range of services from beginner riding courses to advanced maintenance training. Here’s why our approach sets us apart as the inclusive, authoritative choice for cycling education.
Expert-Led Bicycle Training by Industry Leaders
With a team of instructors who adhere to the UK National Standards for Bicycle Training, Pedal Set Go offers top-tier, accessible training for everybody. Our commitment to excellence has earned us the reputation of industry leaders, providing comprehensive cycling education tailored to the unique needs of each learner. Whether you're exploring the streets of Sydney for the first time or brushing up on your cycling safety knowledge, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Workplace Cycling Courses: A Corporate Shift Towards Sustainability
Embracing cycling as part of your corporate culture not only champions sustainability but also promotes well-being and efficiency among your team. Pedal Set Go specialises in workplace WHS bicycle courses, ensuring a smooth integration of cycling into your business environment. Our industry-leading programs are designed to address safety, route planning, and team engagement, making cycling a viable and enjoyable part of your daily routine.
Our Inclusive Vision: Cycling for Everybody
Cycling should know no barriers. Pedal Set Go stands as a beacon of inclusivity in an industry often perceived as exclusive. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, offering personalised learning experiences and the option for women-only instructors upon request. Our diverse team reflects the community we serve, emphasising our belief that everyone has a rightful place in the cycling world.
Maintenance Courses with a Difference
Understanding the intricacies of your bike enhances your riding experience and autonomy. Our maintenance courses go beyond the basics, teaching you essential skills for keeping your bike in prime condition, many of these skills are about preventative maintenance and are suitable for those who don’t want to get their hands that dirty. As industry leaders, we ensure that our training empowers you with practical knowledge, from routine tune-ups to emergency repairs, fostering a deeper connection between you and your bike.
Choosing Education Over Simple Service
For check and tune events, the expertise of bike educators like Pedal Set Go offers unparalleled value. Our educators are trained in both the technical and pedagogical aspects of cycling, ensuring participants not only receive top-notch service but also leave with a greater understanding of their bikes. This educational focus positions us as the preferred choice for businesses and organisations seeking meaningful engagement at their cycling events.
Join the Leaders in Bicycle Education
Pedal Set Go is more than a service provider; we are leaders in the movement towards a more inclusive, educated, and passionate cycling community in Sydney. With references from government organisations, corporations, and individuals from all walks of life, our track record speaks volumes about our commitment and expertise. Whether you’re taking the first pedal stroke or aiming to enrich your cycling knowledge, we’re here to lead the way.
Discovering Sydney's Bicycle Network: Your Ultimate Guide to Bike Maps and Adventures
Discovering Sydney's Bicycle Network: Your Ultimate Guide to Bike Maps and Adventures
Are you ready to explore Sydney on two wheels but not sure where to start? At Pedal Set Go, we believe that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single pedal stroke. And what better way to kick-start your adventure than with the right map in your hand (or on your device)? Whether you're a seasoned bike rider or just starting out, having access to comprehensive bike maps and networks can transform your riding experience. Today, we're diving into the best resources for Sydney's bicycle network and how you can easily plan your next ride.
Local Council Maps: A Hidden Gem
Did you know that most local councils in Sydney offer detailed maps of their areas, showcasing bike paths and routes? These gems are often available for free, either sent directly to you or as a download from their websites. They're a fantastic starting point for exploring new neighbourhoods and finding safe, bike-friendly roads. Some websites are easier to navigate than others, so we have provided links to some of them below.
Inner West Council Maps including The Bay Run & Tom Uren Trail.
Transport for NSW Cycleway Finder
Randwick City Council Bike Routes and Maps
City of Parramatta Cycling Map
The Must-Visit Bike Blogs and Tools
For those who love a good read accompanied by insightful bike trail explorations, Biketrail.blog by Gary, a renowned blogger and city explorer, is a treasure trove of information. Gary's adventures and detailed guides provide a unique perspective on Sydney's biking landscape, making it one of our favourite blogs.
Planning your route is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable ride. That's where tools like the Cycleway Finder map by Service NSW come in handy. It's an invaluable resource for finding dedicated cycleways and shared paths. At Pedal Set Go, we also rely on apps like Citymapper and Ride with GPS to meticulously plan our routes, ensuring a safe and efficient journey for all bike riders. But you don’t just require bike maps, with a little practice and a keen eye for what’s in between the major arterial roads for heavy vehicles, you will learn to discover a network of roads, laneways, and green spaces—a network of quiet ways that are better by bike.
University Cycle Maps and Parking
Universities often go the extra mile to accommodate people walking and bike riders, offering detailed cycle maps of their campuses and surrounding areas, along with bike parking facilities. These maps can be a great resource for navigating through or around university precincts, highlighting less congested routes and safe bike parking spots. They will often map out water bubblers and toilets which, when well placed, will certainly improve your ride.
Sydney Cycling Map: A Gold Standard
When talking about bike maps, the Sydney Cycling Map by the City of Sydney deserves a special mention. Renowned for its comprehensive coverage and user-friendly design, it's arguably one of the best resources for “cyclists” in the city. Whether you're commuting, exercising, or just out for a leisurely ride, this map will guide you through Sydney's vast network of bike paths and lanes.
Beyond the Map: Embrace Micro-Adventures
Exploring Sydney on a bike isn't just about following mapped routes. It's about discovering new places and experiences. Don't hesitate to think outside the box and embark on a micro-adventure. There are plenty of bike friendly streets without the provision of bike specific infrastructure. While you can't take your bike on buses, Sydney's ferries, trains, and light rail also expand your network, allowing you to explore further than ever before. Remember, you don't have to ride every metre to enjoy the essence of what it is being a bike rider.
Join the Pedal Set Go Community
At Pedal Set Go, we're more than just a bike education and consulting service. We're a community of passionate bike riders dedicated to connecting people with places and breaking down the barriers to “cycling”. Whether you're looking for advice, training, or just a group of like-minded individuals to ride with, we're here to support you on your journey. Check out our social media for a guided ride near you.
Sydney's bicycle network is vast and varied, offering something for everybody. By leveraging the resources and tools mentioned above, you can safely and confidently navigate your way around the city. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your route, grab your helmet, and join us in celebrating the joy of bike riding.
Remember, every ride is an adventure waiting to happen. Let's make the most of it together!
Discover Sydney's Hidden Bike-Friendly Streets with Pedal Set Go
Discover Sydney's hidden bike-friendly streets beyond official bike paths with Pedal Set Go. Explore green spaces, laneways, and quiet routes for a unique cycling experience. Join our guided rides to see the city from a fresh perspective.
Sydney is a city celebrated for its stunning harbour, lush parks, vibrant neighbourhoods,……… and not so much for it’s traffic and congestion. But Sydney also offers an unparalleled experience for bike riders of all ages and abilities. While many turn to the official City of Sydney Bike Map in search of safe and scenic routes, there's a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered off the beaten cycle path. Pedal Set Go invites you to look outside the box—or rather, the usual bike path—to explore Sydney’s green spaces, laneways, and quiet residential streets, offering a fresh perspective far different from what drivers or bus riders might see.
The Charm of Sydney's Bike Paths and Cycleways
Sydney's official bike paths and cycleways are gateways to some of the city's most progressive and sustainable communities, providing a secure environment for riders, especially beginners and families. From riding around Centennial Park, Bourke Street, Wilson Street or College Street cycleways, these well-trodden routes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to a great experience riding a bike in Sydney.
Beyond the Map: The Pedal Set Go Experience
At Pedal Set Go, we believe the real magic happens on the streets less travelled. Our guided rides and courses are designed to reveal the city's hidden network of bike-friendly streets that you won’t find highlighted on the standard Sydney Bike Paths Map. We take you through tranquil green spaces, down charming laneways, and along quiet ways that weave between the city's major arteries. It's a unique opportunity to see Sydney through a new lens, one that transforms the urban environment into a bicycle playground.
Guided Rides: A Different Perspective
Joining one of our guided rides or courses offers more than just a chance to discover these hidden paths; it's an opportunity to see the city from a different perspective. Imagine cruising through quiet, leafy streets, discovering shortcuts and green corridors that you never knew existed, all while learning how to navigate the city safely and confidently on two wheels. Our experienced guides are not just instructors but passionate advocates for exploring Sydney’s lesser-known locales, making each ride a micro adventure in its own right. And we want to show you how to create these bike-friendly routes for yourselves.
Empowering Exploration
Our mission is to empower riders with the knowledge and skills to safely explore Sydney's streets, whether they're paved with cycleways or not. By participating in our courses, you'll learn how to identify bike-friendly routes, understand traffic patterns, and make informed decisions about the best ways to get around. It's about building confidence and community and encouraging riders to share their discoveries and experiences with others.
Your Invitation to Explore
We invite you to break free from the confines of the conventional bike map and join us on a journey of discovery. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for new challenges or a beginner eager to learn the ropes, Pedal Set Go has something for everyone. Explore Sydney's hidden bike-friendly streets with us and experience the city like never before.
Ready to Ride?
If you're intrigued by the idea of discovering Sydney's bike-friendly streets beyond the cycleways, Pedal Set Go is here to guide you. Visit our social media pages to learn more about our group guided rides and courses, and book your spot today. Together, let's pedal beyond the map and uncover the true beauty of cycling in the city—beautiful bike-friendly Sydney.
Beyond Cycling: Embracing Bike Riding as Everyday Transport
Our Values Over SEO. We recognise that using terms like "cycling" might improve our search engine optimisation (SEO) and help more people find our services online. However, we believe that staying true to our values and promoting a more inclusive view of bike riding is more important. We are committed to providing bicycle education, consulting, training, and services that reflect these values.
At Pedal Set Go, our mission is to break down the barriers that keep people from integrating bike riding into their daily lives. While the word "cycling" often conjures images of sport, competition, and high-performance athletes clad in Lycra, we prefer to focus on the simple joy and practicality of riding a bicycle. It's why you'll notice we don't use "cycling" or "cyclist" very often. Our goal is to humanise and normalise bike riding as an effective mode of transport that is accessible to everybody.
Why We Focus on Bike Riding
Bike riding is for all. It's a way to connect with your community, reduce your environmental impact, and improve your health, all at the same time. By emphasising bike riding over cycling, we aim to make this activity feel more inclusive and welcoming to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Whether you're heading to work, running errands, or just enjoying the outdoors, bike riding offers a versatile solution that aligns with sustainable and active transport principles.
Our Values Over SEO
We recognise that using terms like "cycling" might improve our search engine optimisation (SEO) and help more people find our services online. However, we believe that staying true to our values and promoting a more inclusive view of bike riding is more important. We are committed to providing bicycle education, consulting, training, and services that reflect these values. For those seeking access to bicycle education to build their confidence riding in the city or learning to ride for the first time, know that our approach is designed to welcome and support everybody, regardless of their experience level.
Addressing the Gap in Australian Bicycle Training Standards
While our programs are inspired by the UK's National Standards for Cycle Training and Bikeability, it's important to note that Australia currently lacks a unified national standard for bicycle training. This gap in standardised training means there's a wide variance in the quality and consistency of bike education across the country. At Pedal Set Go, we see this not as a hurdle but as an opportunity to lead by example and set a high standard for inclusive, comprehensive bike riding education.
Our approach is designed to fill this gap, offering a curriculum that covers essential skills for bike riders of all levels. From navigating traffic safely to understanding your rights and responsibilities on the road, our training is tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of riding in Australia. We advocate for the development and adoption of national standards similar to those in the UK, believing that such standards could significantly improve safety and accessibility for bike riders across the country.
By participating in our programs, you're not just learning how to ride a bike; you're also joining a movement that champions better, more standardised bike education in Australia. Together, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to high-quality bike riding training, making our communities safer and more welcoming for bike riders.
Education and Training
Our programs draw inspiration from the UK's National Standards for Cycle Training and Bikeability, ensuring that our curriculum and techniques cater to riders seeking practical skills for everyday life. We focus on overcoming common fears and barriers to bike riding, offering a range of services from beginner courses to advanced urban riding skills. Our approach ensures that bike riders are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to navigate their communities safely and efficiently.
A Sustainable and Active Lifestyle
Bike riding as a form of active transport is at the heart of creating sustainable communities. It's not just about reducing congestion and pollution; it's about promoting a healthier, more connected way of living. At Pedal Set Go, we are passionate about the role that bike riding can play in achieving these goals. We encourage everyone to consider how incorporating bike riding into their daily routine can make a positive impact on their lives and the environment.
Join Us
We invite you to join us in redefining what it means to ride a bike. Whether you're new to bike riding or looking to improve your skills, Pedal Set Go offers the support and education you need to make bike riding a regular part of your life. Together, we can create a community where bike riding is a natural and celebrated choice for transportation and leisure.
Let's pedal forward, embracing bike riding not just as a sport but as a vital component of an active, sustainable lifestyle. Because at Pedal Set Go, we believe bike riding is for everybody.
Discover the Difference with Pedal Set Go
Discover Pedal Set Go, a unique bike riding education community led by women and LGBTQIA+ individuals. We offer an inclusive, respectful environment for all riders, regardless of background or skill level. Our experienced team focuses on safe, empowering bike riding as transport, promoting fairness and equality in the industry. Join us to learn, connect, and stand against discrimination in bike riding education. Experience the difference with Pedal Set Go's empathetic, diverse approach.
Bike Riding Education for Everybody
Welcome to Pedal Set Go, where our love for bike riding meets a deep commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. As a proudly women and LGBTQIA+ owned and operated business, we offer a unique perspective in the world of bike riding education. We're not just about teaching skills; we're about creating a welcoming, supportive community where every rider, regardless of gender or background, feels valued and empowered.
Championing Inclusivity and Fairness in the World of Bike Riding Education
In the realm of bike riding education, the focus is often on sports and recreation. However, at Pedal Set Go, we embrace a more inclusive approach: bike riding as a means of transport, a tool for empowerment, and a route to a more sustainable and connected community. Our mission extends beyond teaching basic riding skills; we're dedicated to creating an environment where every bike rider, regardless of gender or background, can feel safe, respected, and valued.
A Small Industry with Big Challenges
The world of bike-riding educators is small, and we often encounter the same faces in various settings. It's likely that we've all seen or experienced harassment and discrimination within a well-known business in this industry. These issues range from subtle underestimations to overt sexism, racism, or homophobia, where female and minority instructors are marginalised and their abilities questioned while their male counterparts are unjustly praised.
Our Instructors' Journey to Pedal Set Go
An important aspect of our story at Pedal Set Go is the journey of our instructors. Many have joined us due to experiences of harassment and discrimination within the cycling education industry. These experiences, while challenging, have fueled our determination to create a different kind of learning environment—one where respect, empathy, and understanding are at the forefront.
The Importance of Standing Up Against Harassment
Combating harassment and discrimination in bike riding education isn't just the responsibility of those directly affected; it's a shared responsibility. We must all be vigilant and ready to speak out against such behaviours. Silence and passivity only serve to perpetuate these harmful attitudes. At Pedal Set Go, we're committed to fostering a culture where the contributions of all our staff and clients are recognised and celebrated.
Navigating a Complex Landscape
One significant regret within our industry is the failure to report discriminatory behaviour to bodies like Fair Work. This is particularly challenging in a field dominated by casual employees and self-employed contractors, where rights can be limited. Stakeholders sometimes overlook discriminatory behaviour, focusing on pragmatism due to the limited number of skilled and experienced bike riding educators focused on transport.
Our Commitment at Pedal Set Go
Despite these challenges, Pedal Set Go is resolute in making a positive impact. We pride ourselves on being straightforward yet friendly, and we understand the value of fostering a community where everybody feels supported and empowered. Our team, many of whom have personal experiences of workplace harassment, is passionate about providing a welcoming and inclusive environment, both for ourselves and for all bike riders.
Why Choose Pedal Set Go?
Choosing Pedal Set Go isn't just about learning to ride a bike; it's about being part of a movement that champions diversity and inclusivity. Here are a few reasons why we believe you'll love being part of our community:
Empathetic Approach: We understand the challenges faced by those often overlooked in traditional bike-riding settings. Our instructors are not only experts in bike riding but also in creating an environment where you can learn comfortably at your own pace.
Diverse Perspectives: As a women and LGBTQIA+ led team, we bring a range of experiences and viewpoints that enrich our teaching methods and our interactions with clients. This diversity allows us to better understand and meet the needs of all our riders.
Community Focus: We believe in building a strong, supportive community. Pedal Set Go is more than a bike riding school; it's a place where connections are made, and riders feel a sense of belonging.
Subtle Yet Powerful Advocacy
While we believe in the strength and capabilities of many bike-riding educators working in Sydney, we also understand the importance of representation and visibility in industries traditionally dominated by male perspectives. By choosing Pedal Set Go, you're supporting a business that actively works to shift the narrative and create a more inclusive world of bike riding.
We don't need to shout to make our presence felt; our commitment to quality education and inclusive practices speaks for itself. We welcome everybody, but we also recognise that choosing a women and LGBTQIA+ owned and operated business like ours can be a powerful statement in support of diversity and equality.
Join Our Welcoming Community
We invite you to experience the difference at Pedal Set Go. Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your bike riding skills, we're here to support you every step of the way. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is excited to share our passion for bike riding with you, in an environment that celebrates who you are.
In conclusion, Pedal Set Go isn't just about bike riding; it's about being part of a community that values diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment. We're here to offer an alternative, a space where everybody feels welcomed and respected. Join us on this journey and discover the joy of bike riding with a team that truly cares about you and your experience.