Tips and Training

Everyone loves a challenge – so set a goal that’s a stretch but achievable with the right training and preparation. You’re spoilt for choice at Around the Bay with seven ride distances available: 25km, 50km, 135km, 100km, 160km, 210km and 250km.

It may sound simple – but make time to train before the event and build up to your distance over time. Not only will you boost your endurance and fitness, you’ll learn about how to pace yourself and how much nutrition your body needs to power you around the course.

It’s also a good idea to practice riding in all weather conditions—that way you’ll be ready for Melbourne’s infamous four-seasons-in-one-day.

Preparation is key—not just for the ride day, but every time you ride, so that you’re not caught out with a mechanical problem. We recommend getting your bike serviced before you start your training program, and once again before the event.

When you head out for a bike ride, we recommend eight essential items that you should never leave home without: water, food, pump, spare inner tubes, tyre levers, mobile phone, cash or bank card and your house key. 

Also, don’t forget to keep a close eye on the weather before you ride. Some additional items that are worth investing in are a good quality waterproof jacket and gloves (particularly when training through winter).

Riding is always more fun with friends, so buddy up and tackle your training together. Set your goal and commit to a weekly or fortnightly training ride. You’ll also have someone to keep you accountable when you’re tempted to stay in the comfort of your warm bed. You can also join our free training and social rides in the lead up to our events.

Off the bike – regular stretching or yoga can help increase your flexibility and you’ll reap the benefits over longer rides. Stretching can also help reduce the risk of injury or any stiffness or soreness you may feel after a ride.

When riding in an event with thousands of others or even out on a weekend training ride, it’s important that you always ride with respect and share the road. There are advantages to riding in a group, but there’s also a number of important group riding courtesies to follow.

When riding in a group or bunch, it’s important that you keep left unless overtaking, communicate your intentions clearly, ride predictably and use hand signals and calls to notify others around you of your movements. It’s also a good idea to take a quick refresher of the road rules. 

Congratulations – you’re following in the tyre tracks of hundreds of thousands of other bike riders who have gone before you.

Around the Bay is a rite of passage for so many in Australia’s bike riding community. It’s not every day you get the chance to ride with 10,000 other bike riders in Australia’s biggest bike ride. This is your chance to celebrate your place in Australia’s incredible and diverse bike riding community, so enjoy it!