Your First Ride Along Kedron Brook: Tips for New Cyclists

A Perfect First Ride for Every Body in Brisbane North

Kedron Brook Bikeway is Brisbane's most welcoming route for new and returning cyclists, stretching approximately 20 kilometres from Mitchelton to Nundah through peaceful parklands and quiet neighbourhoods. This gentle, mostly flat path combines separated bikeways with off-road shared pathways, making it an ideal choice for families, seniors, and anyone building confidence on two or three wheels.

Quick Facts About Kedron Brook Bikeway:

• Distance: 20km total (or choose shorter sections)
• Difficulty: Easy - mostly flat with gentle slopes
• Surface: Shared bitumen paths and off-road cycleways
• Best for: Families, beginners, casual riders, e-bike users
• Key stops: Mercer Park, Teralba Park, Brookside Shopping Centre
• Access: Train stations at Mitchelton and Toombul (less than 300m to bikeway)
• Connects to: Jim Soorley Bikeway, leading to Nudgee Beach and Boondall Wetlands

Whether you're nervous about getting back on a bike, worried about keeping up with others, or simply want a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors, this bikeway offers the perfect environment to refind the joy of cycling at your own pace.

I'm Andrea Herklots from EveryBody eBikes, and I've helped hundreds of people find their confidence on the Kedron Brook Bikeway through our custom-fitted e-bikes and sit-down trikes. Having supported riders from age 4 to 104, I understand that every body needs a different approach to feel safe and comfortable on their cycling journey.

A Beginner's Guide to Riding the Bikeway with Confidence

The Kedron Brook Bikeway isn't just a path; it's an invitation to experience the joy and freedom of cycling, especially if you're just starting out or returning to the saddle after a long break. We believe cycling should be for every body, and this bikeway truly embodies that spirit with its gentle, accessible design.

Why It's the Perfect Path for Your First Ride

The Kedron Brook Bikeway earns its reputation as one of Brisbane North's most popular bikeways for very good reasons, particularly for those new to cycling. Its design and natural setting make it a truly welcoming space.

• Easy Difficulty: The bikeway has an "Easy" difficulty rating because the terrain is predominantly flat. You won't encounter challenging hills, allowing you to focus on enjoying the ride and building confidence without the strain of steep climbs.
• Off-Road Paths for Peace of Mind: A significant portion of the route consists of separated bikeways and off-road shared paths. This means you'll be riding away from busy traffic, creating a safer, more relaxed environment for everyone.
• Family-Friendly Design: The bikeway is perfect for families with children. Its safe, off-road nature and numerous parks make it an ideal spot for a family outing where you can create cherished memories together.
• Abundant Parks and Rest Stops: Lush gardens and wide green lawns flank the path, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Along the way, plenty of parks serve as natural rest and turnaround points, with amenities for a comfortable break.
• Scenic and Convenient: The journey along the Kedron Brook offers lovely views and a sense of being immersed in nature within the city. It’s a place where you can unwind and enjoy the simple pleasure of movement.

Planning Your Route on the Kedron Brook Bikeway

The beauty of the Kedron Brook Bikeway lies in its flexibility. The main path runs for about 20 km from Mitchelton to Nundah, but you don't have to tackle it all at once. We encourage you to choose a distance that feels comfortable and enjoyable, starting with shorter, manageable sections.

• Best Access Points or Starting Points: The bikeway is highly accessible via public transport.
  • Train Access: Catch a train to Mitchelton railway station or Toombul railway station. From either station, it's less than 300 metres to get directly onto the bikeway, making it convenient for one-way rides.
  • Parking Options: You'll generally find parking available near the various parks that dot the bikeway, such as Mercer Park.
• Shorter Ride Ideas: To build confidence, try these shorter sections:
  • Mitchelton to Mercer Park: An excellent starting point for a relaxed ride, with Mercer Park being a beautiful spot for a picnic break.
  • Teralba Park to Toombul: This eastern section offers a lovely experience and a great feel for the bikeway's character.
  • For more inspiration on starting small, explore our advice on Beginner Friendly Rail Trails: Your First Ride Made Easy.

Simple Tips for a Smooth and Happy Journey

Your first ride on the Kedron Brook Bikeway should be enjoyable and stress-free. Here are some simple tips to ensure a smooth and happy journey, especially for new cyclists.

• Shared Path Etiquette: As a shared path used by cyclists, walkers, and runners, always be mindful of others. Keep left, pass on the right, and use your bell or a friendly call of "passing on your right" to signal your approach.
• Navigating Signage: The bikeway is relatively easy to follow, but it's wise to pay attention to signs, especially at intersections. If you're unsure, pull over safely to check a map on your phone.
• What to Bring: Being prepared makes all the difference for a comfortable ride.
  • Water and Snacks: Always carry a water bottle and some snacks to keep your energy levels up.
  • Sun Protection: Brisbane's sun can be intense, so wear sunscreen, a hat for breaks, and sunglasses.
  • Helmet and Clothing: A well-fitting helmet is essential. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather.
  • Basic Repair Kit: A small puncture repair kit and a portable pump can be a lifesaver.
• Best Times to Ride: The cooler months (April to October) are pleasant. In summer, ride in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Off-peak times are often quieter, which can be less daunting for beginners.
• Safety and Maintenance: If you notice any maintenance issues on the bikeway, please report them to the Brisbane City Council to help keep the paths safe for everyone.

Sights and Stops to Enjoy Along the Kedron Brook Bikeway

The Kedron Brook Bikeway isn't just about the ride; it's about the experience. Along its length, you'll find numerous amenities and points of interest that invite you to pause and explore.

• Parks for Rest and Play: The bikeway is dotted with beautiful parks perfect for breaks.
  • Mercer Park: A lovely spot with picnic shelters and walking trails, great for a picnic stop.
  • Teralba Park: Another excellent park along the route with green spaces and facilities.
• Amenities for Your Comfort: You'll find essential facilities like public restrooms, water fountains, and even workout stations placed along the route.
• Fueling Your Adventure: For a coffee or a meal, there are great options nearby.
  • Grid Espresso: This bike-friendly cafe is a go-to spot for cyclists. You can find them on their Facebook page.
  • Shopping Centres: Near the Mitchelton end, Brookside Shopping Centre offers plenty of options for food, groceries, or a browse.

Ready for More? Connecting to Other Brisbane Trails

The Kedron Brook Bikeway is a vital artery in Brisbane's bikeway network, offering exciting possibilities for longer adventures.

• Connecting to the Coast: At its eastern end in Nundah, the bikeway seamlessly connects to the Jim Soorley Bikeway. This path can take you all the way to Nudgee Beach and the beautiful Boondall Wetlands Bikeway.
• Accessing Other Major Corridors: The bikeway also provides access to other significant routes like the North Brisbane Bikeway, a key corridor connecting the northern suburbs to the CBD.
• Beyond Brisbane: Once you feel confident, you might be inspired to explore Queensland's impressive network of rail trails. For a longer adventure, the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail is a popular choice. Learn more in Your Guide to the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

The Kedron Brook Bikeway is the perfect stepping stone to the wider world of cycling that Brisbane and Queensland have to offer.

Feeling Inspired? How Every Body Can Enjoy the Ride

If you've ever felt too nervous, out of shape, or that it's too late to ride a bike again, we want you to know you're not alone. At EveryBody eBikes, we believe riding is for every body—at your own pace, in your own way. The gentle Kedron Brook Bikeway is the ideal place to overcome those fears and refind the joy of cycling.

Our mission is to make cycling accessible and enjoyable for all. Our custom-fitted e-bikes provide a gentle boost, making hills disappear and longer distances feel wonderfully manageable. It’s all the joy of cycling without the strain. You can learn more in our guide on Comfort First: Finding Your Perfect e-bike for Effortless Journeys.

For those who want extra stability, our sit-down trikes offer unwavering confidence. These three-wheeled options provide a secure platform to ride comfortably, making them an excellent solution for active seniors, people with mobility challenges, or anyone seeking added peace of mind.

We believe cycling is better when shared with loved ones. Our bikes and trikes are designed to help you ride together, creating memories on local paths like the Kedron Brook Bikeway and beyond.

Located in Gaythorne, Brisbane, we're not just selling bikes—we're enabling freedom, fun, and independence. We offer a personalised approach with custom guidance to ensure your bike is a perfect fit, backed by real after-sales service and support.

Ready to get started on the Kedron Brook Bikeway? Let us help you find the perfect e-bike or e-trike that will empower you to ride for fun, freedom, and independence.

Explore our range of e-bikes and take the first step towards your next great adventure.