Frequently asked questions

It seems like a really long way ...

If you are moderately fit and can ride a bike then you can do Cycle Queensland.

The ride, while it may be a bit of a challenge for some riders, is not impossible. And think about how good it will feel when you pedal into Bundaberg and look back at what you have achieved. With a bit of planning and preparation you'll be fine. Regular riding is the best thing you can do - its much better to ride a bit regularly than to go on long irregular rides. On the ride, you don't need to wear yourself out each day by rushing from one town to the next - just take your time and ride at your own pace. You literally have all day! You'll also get loads of encouragement along the way from our volunteers and have the company of other riders to keep you chugging along. And if your legs give up and you can't pedal any further … you can always jump on our SAG wagon for a lift to the campsite.

Are there any hills?

There are some that we rate as moderate.

Day 2 has one short very steep section that can easily be walked if needed. Day 4 has a climb up over a small range that looks worse than it is. Day 7 is the hard day of the ride with rolling hills and a couple of longer climbs with steep sections but by Day 7 you are ready for the challenge. Day 8 has one good climb amongst rollers that generally head downhill. Incorporate a few hills into your preparation and you'll be cruising.

What will the weather be like?

Do big blue skies, warm sunny days and crisp clear nights sound okay by you? Well, that's what spring in the region usually delivers. Expect day time temps around the mid 20s. Overnight it could get chilly - so pack a few warm woollies but the good news is that it warms up pretty quickly once the sun starts to rise. (Best to also be prepared for a bit of the wet stuff - just in case things don't go to plan.)

Only serious cyclists with expensive bikes go on the ride - right?

WRONG! Previous riders have included young families, school students and an 84 year old lady. In 2009, 45% of Cycle Queensland riders were on their first ever cycling tour!

What sort of bike should I bring?

You don't need to have an expensive bike to complete the ride; however your bike should be in good mechanical order. Any geared bike is suitable (BMX bikes are not recommended).

Can kids come on CQ?

Cycle Queensland is suitable for riders of all ages. However, children under 12 are not allowed to pilot their own bike (they need to be in a trailer, child seat, or on a tag-a-long or tandem) and participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What if I or my bike develop Mondayitis?

Medical assistance, police, bike mechanics, route marshals and masseurs travel with the ride and can help solve almost any problem. Don't forget to bring your own puncture kit and any other gear you need to perform simple repairs on your bike.

If your bike breaks down along the route and it can't be fixed by the roadside - you won't have to walk the rest of the way home because you always get a lift with the SAG wagon.

Are the roads closed? What about trucks, cars and motorbikes roaring past?

The roads used on Cycle Queensland are NOT closed to other traffic but with 1500 riders there is a critical mass that has a strong presence on the road. Police are also on hand to ensure good behaviour and road sharing by motorists and riders. We select quieter roads whenever possible. To increase the safety of riders, Bicycle Queensland vehicles and trucks supporting the ride generally travel along a different route to the riders.

What time will I get into the campsite each day?

That is the million dollar question. It all depends on what speed you ride at and how many rest stops you enjoy. It doesn't really matter what time you get to the campsite - the route closes at 4.30pm each day at the latest - so you just need to be in by then (earlier closing times on shorter days)! Cycle Queensland is not a race. The idea of the ride is to relax; to enjoy the scenery; and to meet new mates. Ride at your own pace and linger for as long as you need at the rest stops. The bike route will have progressive closing times. These times are generous for the riders but focused on ensuring that on the shorter days our crews are not kept out too long.

Are meals included in my entry price?

All main meals from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 9 are included in your ticket price, except lunch on the Rest Day, when you'll be free to select from a wide range of eateries in the local area. Opportunities to stop and buy morning and afternoon teas from local community groups are provided along the route each day.

I have special dietary requirements. What can you offer me?

Our chefs can accommodate your needs (vegan, coeliac, lactose intolerant, nut allergy etc) however you do need to fill out the Special Diet Requirements link form before your entry will be accepted.

Do I need to bring all my own camping gear?

Unless you are taking the Easy Campese tent option or the Pheels Phantastic accommodation option - you need to bring your own camping gear (i.e. tent, sleeping bag, camping mattress). The cost of your campsite is included in the entry price. If you are looking for a little luxury along the way consider arranging your own motel/pub/van park accommodation - see the Local Accommodation Options link Info Sheet for some ideas - but remember you have to get your luggage to and fro each day.

Is my camping equipment included in the 22kg baggage limit?

Yes, it is. However, your bike, helmet and bike accessories such as panniers, lights, water bottles etc are not part of it.

How do I wash my clothes while on the ride?

Clothes washing facilities are available on the campsite. They are pretty basic - just tubs and water and you need to BYO laundry detergent. Some towns also have Laundromats - see the What's On in the Guide for their location. We are also working on a "Rest Day Laundry Service".

I like to have a cuppa in the evenings, should I bring a camp stove?

Tents are generally made of highly flammable material so fires are not allowed on the campsite - this includes camp stoves. But free tea, coffee and Milo is available from the Tea and Coffee bar (next to the catering marquee) from 5.30 to 7:30am and 3 to 10pm.

I've got friends in town, can they come and visit me?

Friends or family may visit you on the campsite but you must accompany them at all times and they may not stay overnight. Visitors will not be served meals and cannot enter the Café area (this is a requirement of the event liquor licence).

I like a glass of wine with dinner, can I BYO?

BYOs are not permitted. The fenced-off area of the Campsite Cafe is the only part of the campsite where alcohol is permitted. The event liquor license requires these restrictions and contravention may result in cancellation of the licence and closure of the Cafe.

Can I bring a support vehicle?

No way! Private support vehicles are not permitted on Cycle Queensland. Ride officials will deny entry or remove from the Ride any rider or support crew member who chooses to ignore this important safety policy.

I don't ride a bike - can I still come?

By all means … we need lots of happy and helpful volunteers to join the support crew. Check out the volunteer info on the website for more information.