HEAT RECOMMENDATION
The CWC committee recommends that people postpone planned rides for January and February to cooler weather, to avoid the risks of dehydration. A number of cyclists have run short of water on the trail. Temperatures in the high 30s or early 40s occur regularly in the Central West. Dehydration can occur rapidly and with terrible results. Easier to ride in less challenging circumstances.
The Central West Cycle (CWC) circuit is about 400km circuit in central-western NSW. Download the PDF to get a description of the route.
Bikes
This is not a cycle holiday for those devoted to fast road cycling. There is every sort of surface on this route: sealed, gravel, sandy, rocky, corrugations and puddles. You will need a hybrid bike or a mountain bike. Ideally you will bring your favorite bike with you, with back pack, saddle bags or panniers.
There are some hire places at Mudgee and Dubbo. However, you will have to make your own arrangements.
You need to make your own assessment on the levels of difficulty. The section ‘Planning your ride’ provides some suggestions of levels of difficulty.
This cycling tour is not for beginners but for people who have a reasonable level of fitness and cycle regularly. Sometimes you will need to dismount occasionally and walk your bike, up a hill or through some mud.
Check that the distances suit you, and your ability. Note that cycling on gravel or dirt takes longer than sealed roads. What will you be carrying with you ? camping gear, water and food. You must carry good water supplies and some snacks. Be mindful that there may be little or no available services along the way between towns, and many places where mobile coverage is limited or missing.
Most of the cycling is shared paths with cars – but on quiet back roads.
If you want some specific information on levels of difficulty feel free to ask one of our team. See ‘contacts’.