Rider Safety

The MS Melbourne Cycle is held on public roads that may have high traffic demands or present difficult conditions such as steep descents. Participants are urged to exercise extreme caution at all times and ride in a protective manner, constantly scanning the environment to be aware of what is happening around them.

For the safety of other cyclists, volunteers, local residents and the general community all participants must abide by the road rules and obey police and traffic management officials directions at all times.

RULES TO REMEMBER:

Adhere to speed limits and obey all traffic signals and signage.
Always ride in the same direction as traffic on the left-hand side of the road.
Listen to and obey directions of VIC Police and course marshals/volunteers.
Use hand signals if turning left or right, or stopping.
Only pass to the right of another rider and call out 'passing' when doing so.
Always look behind before pulling out to pass another rider.
Only ride side-by-side where there is enough room left for vehicles and other cyclists to pass, and then no more than two abreast.
It is the rider's responsibility to follow the sign-posted route.
Ensure your bike is mechanically sound with both front and rear brakes in working order.
Wear bright clothing that increases your visibility to other road users.
Do not ride in the gutter.
Always wear your helmet correctly when cycling.

MS Australia has been advised the future of the MS Melbourne Cycle is dependant on the continued support of riders behaving appropriately on the roads during the event. Riders disobeying traffic rules, running red lights, or stopping on the West Gate Bridge are noted by authorities such as the Police and Vic Roads, and continued breaches could see the permit to run the event withdrawn.

Police will be on the road and will fine those who:

Disobey traffic lights at intersections and do not stop at pedestrian crossings.
Exceed speed limits.
Fail to keep to the left of the carriageway.
Ride more than two abreast.
Ride dangerously.
Ride negligently.
Are not wearing a helmet.

Volunteer marshals may disqualify riders who are seen breaking the law. This will mean you are banned from future MS Melbourne Cycle, so please follow these rules to ensure an enjoyable day for all.

Your actions are not only responsible for your own safety and those around you, but also have an impact on the continued fundraising work of MS Australia and people living with MS.

We thank you for your support and trust you enjoy your MS Melbourne Cycle experience in a safe and cooperative manner.

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain personal accident insurance before taking part. This type of cover is available through membership of Bicycle Network Victoria. Join now at www.bv.com.au. The waiver that you sign as a condition of entry does not cover participants for accidents caused by yourself or another rider. If you require an ambulance, please note that you will be charged for the transportation.

Bike Repair Service

Peninsula Cycles will provide mechanical repair services along the route. As a proud sponsor, Peninsula Cycles offers their service free of charge, however participants will have to pay for any parts used in the repair. If you do break down, turn your bike upside down and wait for either a repair van or a volunteer who will transport your bike to the nearest rest site.