Riders have a new lens through which to look at their world of riding, and it is going to shape investment in better attractions and promote riding in places it has never been before.

What were once seen as disparate activities: bike packing, BMX, MTB, gravel grinding, are now a bright and shiny new thing – adventure cycling.

The just released NSW Adventure Cycling Strategy envisages a burgeoning new regional tourism sector based on a bundling existing cycling disciplines in an exciting new way.

If it gets a foothold in NSW, this idea will surely flow across to other Australian states.

According to NSW Government figures, interest in adventure cycling has undergone a sharp uptick in recent years, with a 25% growth in BMX and mountain biking club memberships between 2016 and 2020, while track and trail usage in NSW regional areas is on the up. Since March 2020, the government says there has also been a 50% increase in sales of all types of bikes.

Bicycle touring is also increasing in popularity across the country. But according to the strategy, with its combination of vibrant towns and stunning natural beauty, regional NSW has “strong potential” to offer unique experiences in this area.

The NSW Adventure Cycling Strategy offers a framework for the planning and prioritisation of investments in adventure cycling infrastructure, and points to a few overarching principles that applicants for funding must address

Source
The Bicycle Network