Single minded
Iain Treloar finds three reasons to switch to a singlespeed this winter.
Electronic shifting, 11 speed drivetrains, internal hub gears – in the dizzying whoosh of technology, bike componentry has become ever more sophisticated. However, gears continue to be one of the most complex, likely to mess up, and expensive-to-repair parts of the bike.
With the mucky winter roads ahead, now is an ideal time to consider an alternative to a conventional geared drivetrain – the singlespeed.
Before gears were a technologically viable addition to a chain-driven bicycle, necessity dictated that riders manage with whatever single gear ratio they had. The inaugural Tour de France, held in 1903, was won by Maurice Garin on a fixed-gear singlespeed, demonstrating just how far people can push themselves when there’s no other option. Gear ratios on these singlespeeds were designed to make it possible for riders to handle the majority of terrain they would encounter. Of course, on extreme gradients (both up and down), this one gear proved challenging, requiring frenzied pedalling at high speeds and an agonising grind at low speeds, and with the march of progress, geared bikes soon took over.
The renaissance of the singlespeed occurred when bike couriers developed a defined sub-culture. With durability, reliability and affordability all vital requirements for courier steeds, the singlespeed re-emerged in the form of the ‘fixie’ as the ideal choice for their use. As Andy White, proprietor of Fyxomatosis, explains, “When I started as a courier in London, I was riding on a geared MTB with disc brakes. Repairs cost $300 per drivetrain… That was how I got into fixies.”
With a mythology quickly growing around bike couriers and their daredevil city riding, the singlespeed was all of a sudden both practical and cool. For all of the same reasons that singlespeeds appeal to bike couriers, they may be worth considering for your next bike too.
Cheaper to buy
Whilst it’s possible to drop some serious money on a classic Italian or Japanese track frame and custom build, singlespeeds are on the whole more affordable than their geared counterparts, especially in recent years. Anyone with an eye on the bike market will have noticed the increasing proliferation of low-cost singlespeed bikes. They have become synonymous with hipsters, and web-savvy companies like Jellybean, Mojo and Reid have sprung up to meet the needs of this market in a way that the traditional bicycle industry was slow to adapt to. By correctly identifying that new riders, students, and those with low disposable income would be attracted to something cheap to buy and maintain, these businesses have flourished.
Although it may be slightly harder work, the reality is that for a typical gently rolling commute, the difference in times on the same commute from a geared bike to a singlespeed will be negligible…
Although such bikes are sometimes maligned by more snobbish riders, they play an important role in getting more people riding. All three brands have options to get you on the road for under $500, in Reid’s case for as little as $199. Another popular and more sustainable option is to rebuild an old or second-hand road bike as a singlespeed, replacing the rear derailleur with a chain-tensioner and spacing out the rear hub to get the correct chain-line.
While a new or reconditioned singlespeed can make a great first bike, their affordability also makes them a sensible choice as a secondary, wet-weather bike. Why expose your pride and joy to the rain and mud when you could save it for the weekends and have a singlespeed workhorse for the really grim days?
Cheaper to maintain
When riding in winter, your drivetrain is highly susceptible to increased wear from water and road-grit, which will quickly compromise your shifting if your bike is inadequately maintained. This, paired with the added friction of jockey wheels and angled chain-lines, means that chain and cassette wear is highly likely.
By contrast, a singlespeed is optimised for a straight chainline – the lack of angle at which the chain meets the sprocket dramatically reduces wear. Furthermore, all the drivetrain components, which are fewer in number and cheaper in cost, can effectively be ridden to destruction. You don’t need to worry about missed shifts, slipping chains and clunky changes – as long as the chain tension is okay, you are too.
At the end of a winter of riding, when it’s time for your bike to head into the workshop for a spring-clean, many will have experienced the bill shock that a new drivetrain can bring. Consider a daily all-weather commute of 20km return, on a bike equipped with the common mid-range Shimano 105 groupset. In this scenario, it would be reasonable to expect to replace chain and cassette annually, which doesn’t come particularly cheap, with a 105 cassette retailing locally at $109.95 and a chain at $69.95. If chainrings are required, one could expect to pay another $100 or more – and then, any labour charges to get all of the above installed and tuned up.
Compare this with a singlespeed chain, at a cost of around $30, or a complete (albeit basic) singlespeed bike for $200, and the cost benefits quickly start adding up. In essence, a singlespeed drivetrain inherently lasts for longer to begin with, doesn’t need replacing with any great urgency (even if the chain is badly stretched) and is far cheaper when you do.
Purity
The third reason why some choose to go for a singlespeed is a little more difficult to quantify, and frequently dismissed by sceptics as pretentious. Nonetheless, many advocates of the singlespeed are attracted to what they view as a ‘purity’ in their ultra-simple set-up.
This perspective is two-tiered. It’s both a technological response – singlespeeds are lighter weight with no gears, and aesthetically cleaner – and a psychological one, with a singlespeed conjuring some sort of bike-zen. Bike riding is fundamentally you and your bike versus your surrounds; singlespeeding heightens this challenge and really forces you to really engage with the terrain. Without gears to cushion the experience, the steep bits are steeper and flat bits more nuanced, leaving you more aware of your surroundings and in tune with both body and bike. Although it may be slightly harder work, the reality is that for a typical gently rolling commute, the difference in times on the same commute from a geared bike to a singlespeed will be negligible, and with a heightened sense of engagement and achievement as a bonus.
Without gears, you become more aware of your pedaling technique. On hills, the explosive out-of-the-saddle efforts required to maintain momentum up a rise are a great workout. And working to maintain a constant cadence even on undulating terrain is a good way to liven up a commute and build a sense of challenge into any ride, instead of just clicking through the gears to keep it as easy as possible.
Although they won’t suit every rider, singlespeeds are a lot more versatile than they may initially appear. If you’re curious, on your next commute see how you go not shifting your gears to see if it’s achievable. If it is, a singlespeed might just be the perfect low cost, low maintenance, all-weather option for you.
Ride On content is editorially independent, but is supported financially by members of Bicycle Network Victoria. If you enjoy our articles and want to support the future publication of high-quality content, please consider helping out by becoming a member.
Ride On digest
The week’s top bike news from around the world, brought to you every Friday.
Local news
Sandy Bay Bike Lanes Are Go!
After 17 years, Hobart’s Sandy Bay Walking and Cycling Project has finally been given the green light by Hobart City Council. The project will include on-road bike lanes on Sandy Bay Road from Marieville Esplanade to Long Point Road near Sandown Rd with a section of shared path in the north past the University of Tasmania and the Wrest Point Casino.
Melbourne’s Peninsula Link Trail opens for business
Bike riders and walkers can now enjoy 25km of shared, off-road path running from Patterson Lakes to Moorooduc. The path also connects with the EastLink Trail via the Dandenong Creek Trail and forms a key part of the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula bike networks.
Brisbane budgets for bikes
In their 2013-14 budget, released this week, Brisbane City Council has allocated $16.26 million for bike infrastructure projects.
Cadel honoured
Australia’s favourite cyclist, Cadel Evans has been honoured with an Order of Australia medal. Let’s hope it brings him extra luck and speed next month when he competes in the 100th Tour de France.
International news
New Zealand seeks new lesson in safety
In an effort to reduce rider fatalities, New Zealand is seeking expert advice on improving rider safety. In the past there’s been a call to make high-visibility clothing mandatory, but according to Glen Koorey, transportation lecturer at Canterbury University, more bike education programs are the key.
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s a flying e-bike!
Sure it can only stay airborne for five minutes, is remotely controlled and the ‘bike’ part appears arbitrary, but the world’s first flying e-bike is here.
Indianapolis Cultural Trail
This may be America’s best kept bike infrastructure secret.
Health
Exercise for life
King’s College London has found new evidence to support the old adage that a healthy body equals a healthy mind.
Video
That old trick
Instead of our video of the week, we’ve found some pictures of early bike stunt men and women that will make you rather less smug about mastering a track stand.
Ride On content is editorially independent, but is supported financially by members of Bicycle Network Victoria. If you enjoy our articles and want to support the future publication of high-quality content, please consider helping out by becoming a member.
2013 Tour de France
The 100th Tour de France promises to be a magnificent and epic spectacle, writes Stephen Huntley.
Supreme bike-riding athletes, stunning scenery, frenzied spectators, dramatic moments of terrible agony and overwhelming ecstasy, and all played out night after night for three spell-binding weeks; welcome to le Tour de France 2013.
And this year’s Tour is a big one in every sense, the hundredth edition guaranteeing a unique celebration of the world’s biggest annual sporting event.
Highlights of the 3,360km race include three days in historic Corsica, beginning with stage 1 on Saturday, June 29, a double ascent of the famous Alpe d’Huez, a night-time finish in Paris on Sunday, 21 July – which will include a lap around the Arc de Triomphe – while the penultimate stage is a big summit finish that could decide the Tour winner.
The route will suit the climbers, with only two shortish individual time trials, one of which is hilly, six mountain stages, five hilly stages, and four summit finishes. There’s also a short team time trial and seven flat stages.
Hopes for Australian honours are high, with Cadel Evans and his BMC team once again leading the charge. Our own Orica GreenEDGE team are determined to grab some stage-win glory in 2013, with Simon Gerrans and Matt Goss the riders most likely. And Aussie Richie Porte in the all-conquering SKY team will again be providing key support to last year’s champion Bradley Wiggins and his teammate and potential usurper Chris Froome.
Watching the tour live usually means staying up till the wee hours (about 1am), which can get wearying, so it’s wise to identify and save yourself for the must-see stages (see our map and guide overleaf). The one that is most likely to provide a heroic spectacle is stage 18, on Thursday, 18 July. Riders must climb the famous 14km and 21 hairpin bends of Alpe d’Huez, descend on a different route, then climb the 21 hair-pins all over again.
While Cadel remains one of the favourites for overall honours, he’s up against some tough competition. Chris Froome, runner-up to his teammate Bradley Wiggins in 2012, is expected to get the nod to go for the win this year, but Wiggo may get other ideas. Alberto Contador is considered the race favourite by many, but poor Andy Schleck is not considered a contender; he’s out of form, and is missing the loyal support of his brother Frank.
Stage by stage
Saturday, 29 June, Stage 1, Porto-Vecchio, 212km First of three Corisca stages. No prologue this year, but a flat finish that will suit sprinters.
Sunday, 30 June 30, Stage 2, Bastia – Ajaccio, 154km An early mountain stage that will test the riders’ climbing form.
Monday, 1 July, Stage 3, Ajaccio – Calvi, 145km Spectacular, hilly stage finishing with a 13km descent.
Tuesday, 2 July, Stage 4, Nice – Nice, 25km On the mainland for a short team time trial.
Wednesday, 3 July, Stage 5, Cagnes-sur-Mer – Marseille, 219km A chance for a brave breakaway to thwart the sprinters.
Thursday, 4 July, Stage 6, Aix-en-Provence – Montpellier, 176km Sprinters are expected to dominate here.
Friday, 5 July, Stage 7, Montpellier – Albi, 205km Hilly stage will see breakaways battle with the sprinters for honours.
Saturday, 6 July, Stage 8, Castres – Ax 3 Domaines, 194km A Pyrenees summit finish will see the climbers go to work.
Sunday, 7 July, Stage 9, Saint-Girons – Bagneres-de-Bigorre, 165km Five climbs in a long and exhausting test in the mountains.
Monday, 8 July, Rest Day, Saint-Nazaire
Tuesday, 9 July, Stage 10, Saint-Gildas-des-Bois – Saint-Malo, 193km Looks like a sprint finish but the wind may play havoc.
Wednesday, 10 July, Stage 11, Avranches – Mont-Saint-Michel, 33km Individual time trial against a spectacular backdrop.
Thursday, 11 July, Stage 12, Fougeres – Tours, 218km Sprinters should fight it out after a flat stage.
Friday, 12 July, Stage 13, Tours – Saint-Amand-Montrond, 173km Another flat and scenic stage that will suit the sprinters.
Saturday, 13 July, Stage 14, Saint-Pourcain-sur-Sioule – Lyon, 191km A testing, up and down stage that will favour a breakaway.
Sunday, 14 July, Stage 15, Givors – Mont Ventoux, 242km Bastille Day, and flattish run then a steep summit finish that will test all riders.
Monday, 15 July, Rest day, Vaucluse
Tuesday, 16 July, Vaison-la-Romaine – Gap, 168km A mixed bag of climbs finishing with a long final straight.
Wednesday, 17 July, Stage 17, Embrun – Chorges, 32km Individual time trial but with a mountainous course as an added test.
Thursday, 18 July, Stage 18, Gap – Alpe-d’Huez, 168km Stay up to watch this; the legendary Alpe-d’Huez will be climbed twice, including a summit finish, in an epic Alpine stage.
Friday, 19 July 19th, Stage 19, Bourg-d’Oisans – Le Grand-Bornand, 204km Another huge alpine stage, but with a 12km descent finish.
Saturday, 20 July, Stage 20, Annecy – Annecy-Semnoz, 125km Drama aplenty on the penultimate stage, with some tough climbs and a summit finish.
Sunday, 21 July, Stage 21, Versailles – Paris Champs-Elysees, 118km An initial victory parade is followed by ten fiercely contested laps around the Champs-Elysees, which includes, for the first time, a lap around the Arc de Triomphe and a night-time finish. Sprinters will be going helter-skelter to take the last-day honours.
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- Yellow jersey: Worn by the leader of the general individual time classification.
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- Red polka dot jersey: worn by the leader of the best climber classification.
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- Green jersey: worn by the leader of the points (sprinters) classification.
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- White jersey: worn by the leader of the young riders under 25 general individual time classification.
The teams
Note: Final nine-man squads are not yet announced.
Ag2r-La Mondiale (France)
Key riders: Domenico Pozzovivo (Italy), Yauheni Hutarorich (Belarus), Jean-Christophe Péraud (France), Samuel Dumoulin (France)
Bikes: Focus Components: Campagnolo
![ARGOS_13_CM002_V4[6]](http://rideons.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/argos-shimano_jersey.jpg)
Argos-Shimano (Netherlands)
Australians: Will Clarke
Key riders: Marcel Kittel (Germany), John Degenkolb (Germany), Reinardt Janse van Rensburg (South Africa)
Bikes: Felt Components: Shimano
Astana (Kazakhstan)
Key riders: Vincenzo Nibali (Italy), Alexsandr Dyachenko (Kazakhstan), Fredrik Kessiakoff (Sweden), Janez Braijkovic (Sweden), Jakob Fuglsang (Denmark)
Bikes: Specialized Components: Campagnolo
Blanco (Netherlands)
Australians: Jack Bobridge, Graeme Brown, Mark Renshaw, David Tanner
Key riders: Luis Leon Sanchez (Spain),Paul Martens (Germany), Lars Boom (Netherlands), Theo Bos (Netherlands), Robert Gesink (Netherlands)
Bikes: Giant Components: Shimano
BMC (USA)
Australians: Cadel Evans
Key riders: Philippe Gilbert (Belgium), Thor Hushovd (Norway), Taylor Phinney (USA), Tejay van Garderen (USA)
Bikes: BMC Components: Shimano
Cannondale (Italy)
Australians: Cameron Wurf
Key riders: Ivan Basso (Italy), Peter Sagan (Slovakia), Moreno Moser (Italy), Damiano Caruso (Italy)
Bikes: Cannondale Components: SRAM
Cofidis (France)
Key riders: Daniel Navarro (Spain), Jerome Copped (France), Rein Taaramae (Estonia), Christophe Le Mevel (France)
Bikes: Look Components: Shimano
Europcar (France)
Key riders: Thomas Voeckler (France), Sebastien Chavanel (France), Pierre Rolland (France), Jerome Cousin (France)
Bikes: Colnago Components: Campagnolo
Euskaltel-Euskadi (Spain/Basque)
Key riders: Samuel Sanchez (Spain), Igor Anton (Spain), Mikel Atarloza (Spain), Gorka and Ion Izabirre (Spain), Mikel Nieve (Spain)
Bikes: Orbea Components: Shimano
FDJ (France)
Key riders: Thibaut Pinot (France), Pierrick Fedgrigo (France), Arnaud Damare (France)
Bikes: Lapierre Components: Shimano
Garmin-Sharp (USA)
Australians: Steele Von Hoff, Nathan Haas, Rohan Dennis, Lachlan Morton
Key riders: Ryder Hesjedal (Canada),Robert Hunter (South Africa), Daniel Martin (Ireland), Andrew Talansky (USA)
Bikes: Cervelo Components: Shimano
Katusha (Russia)
Key riders: Joaquim Rodríguez (Spain), Denis Menchov (Russia), Daniel Moreno (Spain)
Bikes: Canyon Components: Shimano
Lampre-Merida (Italy)
Australians: Matthew Lloyd
Key riders: Damiano Cunego (Italy), Michele Scarponi (Italy), Filippo Pozzato (Italy)
Bikes: Merida Components: Shimano
Lotto-Belisol (Belgium)
Australians: Adam Hansen
Key riders: Andre Greipel (Germany), Jürgen Roelandts (Belgium), Greg Henderson (New Zealand), Jurgen Van Den Broeck (Belgium)
Bikes: Ridley Components: Campagnolo
Movistar (Spain)
Key riders: Vladimir Karpets (Russia), Alejandro Valverde (Spain), Giovanni Visconti (Italy), Rui Costa (Portugal), Nairo Quintana (Columbia)
Bikes: Pinarello Components: Campagnolo
Omega Pharma-Quick Step (Belgium)
Key riders: Mark Cavendish (Great Britain), Sylvain Chavanel (France), Tom Boonen (Belgium), Tony Martin (Germany),Niki Terpstra (Netherlands)
Bikes: Specialzed Components: SRAM
Orica-GreenEDGE (Australia)
Riders: Michael Albasini (Switzerland), Fumiyuki Beppu (Japan), Sam Bewley (New Zealand), Simon Clarke (Australia), Baden Cooke (Australia), Allan Davis (Australia), Julian Dean(New Zealand), Mitchell Docker (Australia), Luke Durbridge (Australia), Simon Gerrans (Australia), Matthew Goss (Australia), Michael Hepburn (Australia), Leigh Howard (Australia), Daryl Impey (Russia), Jens Keukeleire (Belgium), Aidis Kruopis (Lithuania), Brett Lancaster (Australia), Sebastian Langeveld (Netherlands), Michael Matthews (Australia), Christian Meier (Canada), Cameron Meyer (Australia), Travis Meyer (Australia), Jens Mouris (Netherlands), Stuart O’Grady (Australia), Wesley Sulzberger (Australia), Daniel Teklehaymanot (Eritrea), Svein Tuft (Canada), Tomas Vaitkus (Lithuania), Pieter Weening (Netherlands)
Bikes: Scott Components: Shimano
RadioShack-Leopard (Luxembourg)
Key riders: Fabian Cancellara (Switzerland), Andy and Frank Schleck (Luxembourg), Giacomo Nizzolo (Italy)
Bikes: Trel Components: Shimano
Saxo-Tinkoff (Denmark)
Australians: Jonathan Cantwell, Jay McCarthy, Michael Rogers, Rory Sutherland
Key riders: Alberto Cantador (Spain), Roman Kreuziger (Czech Republic), Nicolas Roche (Ireland), Evgeni Petrov (Russia)
Bikes: Specialized Components: SRAM
Sky (Great Britain)
Australians: Mathew Hayman, Richie Porte, Chris Sutton
Key riders: Bradley Wiggins (Great Britain), Chris Froome (Great Britain), Geraint Thomas (Great Britain), Edvald Boasson Hagen (Norway)
Bikes: Pinarello Components: Shimano
Sojasun (France)
Key riders: Jonathan Hivert (France), Julien Simon (France), Jimmy Engoulvent (France)
Bikes: BH Components: Shimano
Vacansoleil-DCM (Netherlands)
Australians: Jonathan Cantwell, Jay McCarthy, Michael Rogers, Rory Sutherland
Key riders: Alberto Cantador (Spain), Roman Kreuziger (Czech Republic), Nicolas Roche (Ireland), Evgeni Petrov (Russia), Thomas De Gendt (Belgium), Johnny Hoogerland (Netherlands)
Bikes: Bianchi Components: Campagnolo
Ride On content is editorially independent, but is supported financially by members of Bicycle Network Victoria. If you enjoy our articles and want to support the future publication of high-quality content, please consider helping out by becoming a member.
Ride On digest
The week’s top bike news from around the world, brought to you every Friday.
Local news
Why aren’t Australian bike share schemes as successful as those overseas?
Many jump to the conclusion that Australian bike share schemes struggle as a result of mandatory helmet laws. However, The Urbanist blogger Alan Davies argues that this is reductive.
Mapping Melbourne’s black spots for bikes
Using CrowdSpot technology, The Age has updated its interactive map where Melbourne bike riders can record the site, date and cause of accidents, helping other riders and authorities identify problem areas.
SA invests in safer streets
A $100 million road safety fund has been outlined in SA’s new State Budget, which will go towards a number of projects, including more speed cameras, an upgrade to the notorious Britannia Roundabout and improvements to key intersections. According to Premier Jay Weatherill, the upgrades will benefit motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
Great Guy champions trail
Victorian planning Minister Matthew Guy has overruled opposition in Boroondara Council to ensure the Yarra Bridge gets built. The bridge will form a vital link in Melbourne’s bike network, linking the Darebin Creek Trail to the city’s eastern bike network. The project initially received the green light after 17 years of campaigning from Bicycle Network.
International news
Best foot forward
Over the years the Tour de France has attracted some strange stunts, and the 100th race is no exception. A team of six riders will kick off the race a day ahead of the General Classification, riding all 21 stages on footbikes (imagine a scooter with a bike wheel on the front). They expect some of the more challenging stages will take around 17 hours to complete.
Bike to feel better
According to UK charity Sustrans, getting workers commuting by bike could save £13.7 billion in sick leave each year in the UK. According to their research, the average employee takes 4.5 sick days each year, while those who commute by bike take only 2.4.
Little bird calls the cops
A UK motorist who collided with a bike rider in a hit-and-run has been tracked down by police after boasting of the incident on Twitter.
Bikes blaze bright future for Cambodian girls
Disadvantaged girls in Cambodia often don’t progress beyond primary school, with the nearest high school too far and dangerous to walk to, given the high rates of violence against women in rural areas. However, Lotus Outreach International is giving bikes to girls in need, allowing them to travel quickly and safely to school to further their education and eventually rebuild the nation’s educated class.
Health
Get back to nature
People are spending more time than ever indoors. However, there’s a growing body of evidence that suggests that spending time in nature is a key element to good health for both adults and children and can enhance creativity and learning ability.
Video
Getting tricky in Edinburgh
There is no limit to what some people can do on two wheels.
inspiredbicycles Danny Macaskill on Pinkbike
Ride On content is editorially independent, but is supported financially by members of Bicycle Network Victoria. If you enjoy our articles and want to support the future publication of high-quality content, please consider helping out by becoming a member.
Gourmet riding in Rutherglen
Victoria’s High Country has offerings to please every palate, discovers Jon Miller.
Photo by Jon Miller
If you’re one of those people who packs your bike away over winter, perhaps you should think again. Maybe the warming qualities of one of Rutherglen’s legendary tawnys or muscats will tempt you to get out and ride this winter. If this doesn’t do it, perhaps the thought of a meaty shiraz or durif will. While the area is famous for its big reds and fortified wines, many of the wineries also offer whites and other lighter styles as well.
Up-to-date maps of various suggested ride routes are available from the Tourism North East website www.victoriashighcountry.com.au. Hard copies of these maps may also be available from the Rutherglen tourist office, along with a leaflet detailing some rides around Wahgunyah and Corowa. You can also pick up a map of the wineries from the tourist office and come up with your own itinerary. I combined a suggested gourmet outlets ride with the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail and a couple of other extras to make a ride of 36km for the day.
The rail trail starts at the old station site just north of the roundabout in Main Street near the tourist office. There’s car parking, toilets and a picnic area. I was soon riding past vineyards on both sides. The vines on the right soon give way to olive trees and I came to my first stop of the day – Wicked Virgin winery and olive grove, a few hundred metres off the trail along a dirt road. They have a wide range of olives, oils and tapenades, as well as wines to try. They are open every day except Tuesdays.
Besides the obvious attractions of Rutherglen’s famous wines, the town and its surrounds are flat, flat, flat, making it ideal for riders of all abilities.
Besides the obvious attractions of Rutherglen’s famous wines, the town and its surrounds are flat, flat, flat, making it ideal for riders of all abilities. Apart from the Murray Valley Highway, the roads carry very little traffic. The highway traffic is also reasonably light, and if you find yourself on it for a short distance, there is a nice wide shoulder to ride on.
I continued along the rail trail right into the centre of Wahgunyah. A lot could be done to beautify the section through the outskirts of town; I felt as though I was riding through an industrial wasteland.
I didn’t stay long in Wahgunyah but crossed over the Murray River to visit the Corowa Whisky and Chocolate factory in the old flour mill. Whisky distilling is a long process and as they have only been open for three years there was none available for tasting. However, there was lots of chocolate to try – the choc-coated Inca berries were the best – and a nice cafe on-site as well.
Leaving the chocolate factory, I rode back over the Murray into Victoria and joined the route of the Gourmet Loop to All Saints winery. All Saints is also home to a country provedore with local produce and the Indigo Cheese Co, which stocks a range of cheeses from around Australia and the world.
The Gourmet Loop then goes past Vintara winery before reaching Cofield Wines and the adjacent Pickled Sisters cafe. The cafe is renowned for its own range of condiments and pickles as well as using mostly local products on the menu. Cofield Wines is very welcoming to bike riders, running cycling packages in conjunction with the Victoria Hotel.
The next winery on the ride is Pfeiffers, situated on Sunday Creek, an anabranch of the Murray. They are famous for their long lunches held yearly on the Sunday Creek Bridge. Or you can order a picnic hamper and enjoy a quieter meal.
The Gourmet Loop then heads back into Rutherglen via the Corowa Road but I had a bit of time, so rode around Lake Moodemere. This is one of the trails on the Cycling and Walking Trail Guide I picked up in Rutherglen. It was the best part of the day, with the dirt track winding through huge stands of river red gum that are teeming with bird life. I spent some time watching a kite or harrier fishing in the lake.
Back into Rutherglen and a pie from Parker Wines was a good way to finish the Gourmet Loop.
Distance: 36km
Difficulty: Easy
Scenery: Vineyards with small patches of river red gum forest
Surface: Quiet sealed roads. The wineries often have loose gravel driveways.
Other info
- Three speed hub-geared bikes with helmets are available for hire from the tourist office; perfectly adequate for the flat terrain around Rutherglen. You will need to book ahead in peak times, such as festivals and long weekends as they go quickly.
- The local cycling group meets for a ride on Saturday mornings, varying distances and speeds depending on who shows up. Ask at Parker Pies in Main Street for details.
- Check opening hours of destinations before you visit because they are often small business and need to have at least one day off a week.
- Many wineries will deliver purchases back to Rutherglen free of charge. This is largely dependent on them having somebody going that way, so ask before you buy.
- Beware of bindi-eyes, also known as cats heads or three-corner jacks. These are hard, sharp thorns that are capable of piercing the toughest tyres. Avoid the road verges as they tend to be swept there by passing traffic.
- Take care when tasting wine and riding. Riding under the influence of alcohol significantly impairs your ability and is therefore dangerous to yourself and irresponsible to other road users.
Getting there
V/Line runs trains to Wangaratta with room to carry up to 30 bikes. From Wangaratta, there is a connecting coach service to Rutherglen and Wahgunyah. V/Line policy doesn’t allow bikes on buses. The driver may let you on if there are only one or two of you but you have little chance in a bigger group.
The best way, of course, is to ride. One day, the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail will extend all the way from Wangaratta to Rutherglen. In the meantime, you can follow the signed on-road cycle route which branches off the rail trail just past Bowser about 10km from Wangaratta. It’s about 67km in total and apart from a couple of kilometres of very rough gravel near Chiltern, is sealed road the whole way. It’s not the most direct route to Rutherglen but it’s very quiet and pretty without being spectacular. The small hills between Bowser and Springhurst provide some panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. Chiltern is a historic gold town with a streetscape that could be used as a film set. The box-ironbark forest of Chiltern National Park is riddled with tracks for mountain bike riders.
If you’d like a shorter ride out to Rutherglen, stay on the train to Chiltern and ride the 20km on the road from there.
Where to stay
There’s no shortage of places to stay in Rutherglen, from caravan parks to hotels, motels and B&Bs. By far the most bike-friendly has to be the Victoria Hotel in the centre of town. Until about 2007, it was just another tumbledown country pub but then Sean Morris and Sarah Pilgrim took it over and are slowly restoring it to its former glory. It’s the only place I’ve ever stayed where I’ve been invited to wheel my bike through the front bar and dining room to access the storage shed out the back.
Jon Miller stayed in Rutherglen courtesy of the Victoria Hotel.
Ride On content is editorially independent, but is supported financially by members of Bicycle Network Victoria. If you enjoy our articles and want to support the future publication of high-quality content, please consider helping out by becoming a member.
Gear up for winter
Don’t be put off by the weather. We have gear, tips and riding techniques to help you beat the winter blues.
On cold, wet, wintry days it can be tempting to leave the bike at home. However, with the right gear and a little know-how, riding in winter can be just as enjoyable and even more satisfying than in warmer months. Plus, there’s the added bonus that, come summer, you’ll still be in top shape.
Kit
Ironically, overheating is the main thing to protect against when dressing for winter riding. Many water-resistant and waterproof jackets keep water out but trap sweat and too much heat close to the body, even if they claim to be breathable. They can also be cumbersome and restrictive. A smarter alternative is to wear multiple thin and breathable layers. Given the days are shorter and daylight hours are often dimmed by cloud cover and rain, choosing clothes and accessories with reflective strips or details, such as a RonDSwan leg band (www.rondswan.com.au), may increase your visibility. Reflective material is most easily seen by drivers when worn on the ankle or leg.
Head and neck
There are many options for keeping your noggin warm. A skullcap, fitted wool beanie or winter riding cap will fit under your helmet, with a winter riding cap having the added bonus of a small visor to keep the sun and rain off your face. A ski-style headband is also a good investment for people who suffer from cold ears, and neck gaiters or snoods are a smart alternative to scarves as they won’t flap or snag on any part of the bike and can be pulled up over your nose and mouth when it gets really frigid.
Torso
A combination of layers and materials is the best way to protect your core. Start with a Merino wool base layer to keep your chest warm and wick sweat away from your skin, followed by a long-sleeve jersey or top, or a short-sleeve jersey with arm warmers. The wind chill factor can make it feel much colder than it is, so block the wind with a wind vest or vented soft shell rain jacket. A selection of wind vests and arm warmers are featured in Ride On’s ‘Beat the wind’ article (bit.ly/153bfMy). For the sartorially conscious, there are also many stylish, cycling-specific rain capes and jackets available, but remember that breathable pieces with mesh panels and/or zippered vents work best to minimise overheating.
Arms and legs
Thermal arm, leg and knee warmers will keep you cosy at the start of your ride but are easily removed and stored in a jersey pocket if you do overheat. They’re also a thrifty alternative for those who don’t want to splash out on a whole winter kit.
Because your legs are working hard throughout the ride, they don’t need as much thermal protection, although your knees should be warm enough so they won’t stiffen up. For most riders, a pair of full-length leggings will suffice.
Those looking for something a little bit different might also give embrocation crème a burl. Similar to deep heat, it’s rubbed into the skin and heats up with movement, making it possible to ride comfortably in shorts all year round. See our article about embrocation (bit.ly/SGV8Mp).
Those who want to stay dry might consider a pair of waterproof over pants. Ride On recommends Ground Effect Helter Skelters (www.groundeffect.co.nz).
Hands and feet
Given your hands and feet are the furthest points blood travels to and the major contact points with the bike, they are the first things to go numb and the most important to keep warm. Invest in a good pair of windproof gloves. If you find full-fingered gloves too warm, try summer gloves over a silk or wool-liner glove.
Waterproof socks, such as SealSkinz (www.sealskinz.com), will definitely protect your feet from rain, though some find them too warm for the Australian climate. Woolen socks are ideal; wear two thin pairs when it’s really cold. Invest in a pair of toe covers or overshoes to protect your feet from wind and rain. Ride On recommends BBB Ultrawear shoe covers (www.bbbparts.com.au).
Backpacks and panniers
A waterproof backpack or pannier is ideal for winter. Alternatively, a waterproof backback cover, such as the Hi-Viz Hump from Cycling & Sports Clothing (www.cyclingsports.com.au) will protect your valuables from the elements. To be doubly safe, it’s a good idea to seal valuables and spare clothes in plastic bags.
Dressing for high-intensity riding
When riding at high-intensity you are more likely to get wet from sweat than rain unless you dress appropriately. Breathable layers will be more comfortable (and less clammy) than waterproof ones, unless it’s really hammering down. Keep warm by protecting your core against wind chill with a wind vest. Arm and leg warmers are easily removed if you start to overheat.
Key
01 Merino base layer
02 Lycra bib knicks
03 Merino socks
04 Super Roubaix head band
05 Short-sleeve jersey
06 Wind vest
07 Super Roubaix arm warmers
08 Heavy knitted full-finger gloves
09 Super Roubaix leg warmers
10 Heavy knitted over socks
Dressing for low-intensity riding in winter
For low-intensity riding, such as commuting, overheating is less likely and staying warm and dry is the priority. Opt for good thermal layers and a waterproof shell.
Key
O1 Merino base layer top
02 Lycra bib knicks
03 SealSkinz waterproof thermal socks
04 Woolen cycling cap
05 Thermal long-sleeve jacket
06 Wind-stopper gloves
07 Waterproof, breathable 3/4 over pants
08 Wind-stopper bootie covers
Bike
If you set up your bike correctly at the start of the season, a few extra minutes’ cleaning each week, or after particularly mucky rides, should be all that’s needed to keep the rain and road grit from wearing out components.
Mudguards
If you do one thing to winterproof your bike, install mudguards. Once upon a time mudguards were only available for practical commuters, but now there are also thin, lightweight, full-length fenders available for road bikes, such as the Crud Road Racer Mk2s (crudproducts.com).
There are also tailored mountain bike mudguards that clip onto the seat and down tubes, as well as clip on ‘rain tails’. However, it’s worth noting the latter aren’t as effective as full-length mudguards, as they don’t protect fellow riders from spray.
Tyres and tubes
Of all the bike’s components, tyres feel the change of season the most. Wet roads littered with debris reduce traction and increase risk of puncture. Consider switching to wider tyres or lowering your tyre pressure by about 10psi to regain lost traction. It’s also wise to opt for tyres with built-in puncture protection, such as a Kevlar strip or similar, particularly for your rear tyre which bears most of the load and is therefore more vulnerable. It’s also a good idea to fill your tubes with Slime (slime.com.au), which hardens upon contact with the air, preventing most minor punctures.
Lights
Riders are legally required to run a white front and red rear light when riding in low light conditions. The 2013 Ride On lights test (bit.ly/16QTq3N) rated the Moon Mask as our top compact front light, the Moon Shield as the top compact rear light and the Moon X-Power 500 as the top high-powered front light (www.moonlights.com.au).
When riding on a path, use caution with high-powered lights as they can ‘blind’ oncoming riders. To ensure you can see and be seen, it’s a good idea to run two front lights: one flashing and pointing straight ahead and one steady beam directed at the riding surface.
Pedals
Providing you’re confident using them, switching to a clip-in shoe and pedal system, such as Shimano SPDs, will prevent your foot slipping off the pedal in wet weather. Be sure to keep both pedals and cleats free of muck and lubricate pedals with silicone spray for best results. If you do ride with flats, ensure they have good grip.
Before a ride
The best way to get the most out of your winter riding is to be prepared. Before setting out, check the weather radar (www.bom.gov.au) to avoid being caught in an unexpected storm. Really heavy rain rarely lasts, so if it’s hammering down, delay your ride until the worst is past.
It’s also important to dress for the intensity of your ride. If you’re only going a short distance at low speed, a thick jacket may be fine, but for longer trips or when you plan to get your heart rate up, removable layers are a better way to go. It’s also a good idea to pack a change of clothes, or at least socks and jocks in a sealed plastic bag inside your backpack or panniers.
During a ride
In general, you need to be more aware on the road in winter as there are more hazards and braking in wet conditions takes longer. Low winter light affects rider and driver vision and, depending on the time of day and the direction you’re travelling, can make approaching vehicles or obstacles more difficult to see or make it harder for drivers to see you. Consider where the sun is in relation to the traffic and ride assertively. Don’t be afraid to take the lane where there is inadequate or no bike infrastructure and avoid creeping up alongside cars, particularly when they’re turning left.
Braking takes longer in winter as water and road grit on your wheels makes it harder for brake pads to grip the rims. Lightly apply the brakes well before you need to come to a complete stop to squeegee water off the rims. Given tyres also have less traction on wet, slippery or metallic surfaces, avoid riding over manhole covers, painted lane markings and tram tracks. If you have to cross any of these, do so at a minimum 45°, relax your grip on the handlebars and avoid braking until you’re back on a grippier surface.
Also bear in mind that puddles can be deceptively deep and hide potholes and other obstacles
Given the changed conditions of winter riding, it’s a good idea to reduce your speed to give yourself extra time to assess and react to upcoming obstacles.
After a ride
Setting aside a few minutes after your ride to clean up your bike and dry your clothes will help make your next ride smooth and enjoyable. If you’re locking up your bike outside, a plastic seat cover will save you a wet backside on the way home (a shower cap will also do the trick).
If your shoes are wet, filling them with newspaper or Stuffitts (cyclestyle.com.au) will speed the drying process. If possible, hang up your clothes to dry where air can circulate freely through them.
Bikes collect extra road grit in the winter that can wear down your brake pads and drivetrain. Cleaning your bike more often prevents muck building up. After a wet or muddy ride, use a clean cloth to wipe water and grit from your rims then rinse your chain with water and run it backwards through a clean cloth to remove grit. To release water trapped in the frame, locate the drain holes – typically located in the rear stays and/or fork and tilt the bike vertically to let the water run out. Alternatively, try the same technique but remove the seat post.
Debris can also lodge in the tyres making them vulnerable to punctures. Using an old spoke or similarly sharp object, dig out any small shards lodged in the rubber.
Materials guide
Merino wool
Merino sheep produce some of the world’s softest and finest wool. It’s wicking and temperature-regulating properties prevent dampness and overheating, making it a popular material for athletic wear. Like other wools, it retains warmth when wet and contains lanolin, an antibacterial which keeps the garment odour free. However, it’s also thinner, softer and more comfortable than most wool, making it an ideal material for base layers.
Sportwool™
Designed by the CSIRO, Sportwool™ combines a layer of Merino wool close to the skin and a polyester outer layer. It works first to delay sweat production by absorbing the humidity close to the skin that precedes sweat, and second to move sweat away from the skin to the outside of the garment. Its wicking abilities and breathability keep the rider cool while riding and reduce post-ride chill. It’s also lightweight, machine washable, offers UV protection and, best of all, remains odour free.
Cotton
There’s evidence of cotton being used as fabric as far back as 5,000 BC. However, while it can be fine for everyday wear, it’s not ideal for riding in. It absorbs moisture and sticks to the skin when wet. It’s also a poor insulator, meaning you’ll quickly go from clammy to cold at the end of your ride.
Waxed cotton
Developed by the Scottish sailing industry, waxed cotton is cotton treated with paraffin wax, which makes it waterproof. Originally popular from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century, waxed cotton is making a comeback among the cycling hip. Be aware that the wax will eventually wear thin and will need to be reapplied.
Lycra
Although Lycra is a specific brand, the term is often used to refer to spandex or elastine. It’s typically mixed with cotton or polyester and is very elastic and quick drying. It is designed to cling to the skin, so while not waterproof, it’s quick drying and the wet material won’t flap against you. Machine drying restores lost elasticity.
Super Roubaix™
A thermal fabric often used in arm and leg warmers. It has a similar feel to Lycra, but is much thicker, providing both warmth and freedom of movement. It compresses the muscles while wicking moisture away from the skin.
Polyester
Wrinkle-resistant and quick-drying, polyester retains its shape. It’s often used in jerseys and blended with natural materials, including wool and cotton. It is a strong fabric with good wicking ability, but retains odour.
Gore-Tex®
According to its manufacturer, Gore-Tex® is durably waterproof, windproof and breathable with nine billion pores per square inch. Gore-Tex® products are also seam sealed (see below) with a water-repellent coating to protect from rain. However, while Gore-Tex® is ideally suited to northern hemisphere winters, many believe it causes riders to overheat in Australia’s milder climate.
Seam sealing
Seams are a weak spot for waterproof and water-resistant products, as holes where the needles and thread passed through can also be penetrated by water. These holes are also often stretched over time with wear. Seam sealing uses adhesive tape or liquid to seal these holes and prevent water passing through.
Water-resistant, water-repellent and waterproof
While a waterproof garment will keep you dryer than a water-resistant or water-repellent one, be aware that it is also likely to be less breathable and you may end up wetter from perspiration than you would have from the rain.
For more winter riding gear, check out the Ride On recommends page. Got a winter riding tip? Let us know below.
Ride On content is editorially independent, but is supported financially by members of Bicycle Network Victoria. If you enjoy our articles and want to support the future publication of high-quality content, please consider helping out by becoming a member.
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Ride On content is editorially independent, but is supported financially by members of Bicycle Network Victoria. If you enjoy our articles and want to support the future publication of high-quality content, please consider helping out by becoming a member.
