Barriers to cycling: not meant figuratively

When we discuss obstacles to cycling, it is often meant figuratively, but not this time. As a cyclist, you will quickly notice the number of obstacles that are thrown in your path. The older areas of Canberra were not built for the cyclist.

Introduction

As a cyclist, we are accustomed to being careful, and we know that many motorists and pedestrians do not seem to notice us. A bike is either too fast or too quiet for many people. This is one of the reasons why we need to be seen – as we cannot be heard. We need to keep our eyes open crossing roads and travelling along Community Paths. The barriers are an extra burden and discourage cycling. 🙂

Below in the table are photos of barrier types found in Canberra. Some are more common than others. Some are safer than others. Some can be hard to see in the dark, particularly when the paths are unlit.

Common hazards

Gates

Gates: On Pipe Flat (along the Molonglo River) there are quite a few. Gates are often chained, even when there is a step through.

Figure 1: Gates: On Pipe Flat (along the Molonglo River) there are quite a few. Gates are often chained, even when there is a step through. Source overpass-turbo and OpenStreetMap

Cycle barrier

Figure 2: Cycle barriers are found in OpenStreetMap. Cycle barrier, adjacent to Cycle Route C5, Aranda, Belconnen

Cycle barrier: Melba is an absolute cycle barrier paradise. They can be hard to see at night.

Figure 3: Cycle barrier: Melba is an absolute cycle barrier paradise. They can be hard to see at night. Source overpass-turbo and OpenStreetMap

Cattle grid

Cattle grid: Mulligans Flat Road has three cattle grid crossings close together.

Figure 4: Cattle grid: Mulligans Flat Road has three cattle grid crossings close together. Source overpass-turbo and OpenStreetMap

Stile (pedestrian)

Figure 5: Pedestrian stile, The Pinnacle Offset Area, The Pinnacle, Belconnen

Stile are often found beside gates or along a fence line (Hawker): Common in Canberra Nature Park.

Figure 6: Stile: Common in Canberra Nature Park. Source overpass-turbo and OpenStreetMap

Swing gate

Swing gate: A swing gate can be hard to get around, particularly if there is stones or drainage ditches on either side. Common in the National Arboretum.

Figure 7: Swing gate: A swing gate can be hard to get around, particularly if there is stones or drainage ditches on either side. Common in the National Arboretum. Source overpass-turbo and OpenStreetMap

Barrier types also found in OpenStreetMap

Other barrier types found in OpenSteetMap. The add photos of ACT designs.

• Guard rail
• Handrail
• Kerb
• Retaining wall
• Chain barrier
• Ditch
• Lift gate
• Debris
• Cable barrier

Figure 8: “Open me” car park gate at the southern entrance to The Pinnacle Offset Area, The Pinnacle, Belconnen