The family Sydney trike tour was organised by Becky from the USA. They are here on a holiday and thought this would be a fun experience. It is also a good way to see many Sydney icons in a short space of time. They booked 2 hours so they saw quite a lot!

Our trike rider picked them up from their hotel in the Sydney CBD.

Opera House

Firstly, they rode further to the iconic Sydney Opera House. We can’t ride close to it but you can see it from a different angle to the usual. The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, but completed by an Australian architectural team headed by Peter Hall, the building was formally opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973. It’s where this photo was taken.

Circular Quay

Next, they rode through Circular Quay. Often referred to as the “gateway to Sydney”, the precinct has views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House and is a common location for viewing Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks. It hosts a number of ferry wharves, bus stops, and a railway station.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

First on the passengers list of icons to do, was to ride over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. So that’s what we did. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Kirribilli

Then, they rode off the north end of the SHB and past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. Further on is Admiralty House. It is the Sydney residence of the Governor-General and one of the most historic and important residences on Sydney Harbour. The house – originally called ‘Wotonga’ – was built in the mid 1800’s.

After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos with a great view of the Sydney Opera House!

The Kirribilli Loop

They rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool. Then, it was back over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Already, the family Sydney trike tour has proven a fun experience – unique, interesting and informative.

Mrs Macquarie’s Point

Next, they rode to Mrs Macquaries Point which has wonderful views across Sydney Harbour. From here, look towards the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. They stopped for photos and a look at the gorgeous view. Mrs Macquaries Point is a peninsula which was named in 1810 after Elizabeth, Governor Macquarie’s wife. Luckily, being the bosses wife, she could order a seat to be chiselled into the rock from which she could view the harbour. Mrs Macquaries Chair, as it’s known, is still here today. It’s in the Domain but is effectively an extension of the Botanic Gardens.

Woolloomooloo, Harry’s and Garden Island

Further east, not far from the city, is the inner eastern suburb of Woolloomoolloo. Woolloomooloo is known for Finger Wharf, an old cargo dock that attracts a trendy clientele with fine dining, hip bars and water views on all sides. It also has the famous Harry Cafe De Wheels which has been serving customers for over 80 years. They make delicious pies, hotdogs and more. Lots of interesting photos are on the walls, mostly of famous celebrities who have visited over the years. They rode past Garden Island which is the location of a major Royal Australian Navy base. Then it was up the hill and into Potts Point.

Kings Cross

Continuing on, they rode through the infamous Kings Cross, though it has calmed down a lot since it’s heyday – home of the famous and huge Coca Cola sign. Kings Cross is also home to nightclubs and ladies of the night though it is not nearly as raunchy as it was in the 1970s (apparently).

Eastern suburbs

They headed east through the posh suburbs of the eastern suburbs of Sydney, including the Bays: Rose Bay, Double Bay and Rushcutters Bay. So far, the family Sydney trike tour was so much fun and informative as well.

Vaucluse

Down the hill, they headed north through the posh eastern suburb of Vaucluse. The first European activity in the area took place not long after settlement, when a makeshift signalling station was set up on the ridge overlooking the ocean. Its role was to signal the colony if a ship was approaching. Pilots based at Camp Cove, Watsons Bay, could then meet the ship and guide it through the harbour. A formal signal station was established in 1790, serviced by a bridle trail that later became Old South Head Road in 1811.

Macquarie Lightstation

Completed in 1818, Macquarie Lighthouse was designed by convict architect Francis Greenway for Lachlan Macquarie, the Governor of NSW. Owing to crumbling foundations, it was reconstructed in the 1880s. Standing at 26 metres tall, the replacement tower was designed by the state’s Colonial Architect, James Barnet, to closely resemble Greenway’s original.

Watsons Bay and The Gap

Heading North through some upper class suburbs, they rode to “The Gap” and stopped for photos. The view is towards North Head and out to the South Pacific Ocean. Watsons Bay sits on the end of the South Head peninsula. The Gap is an ocean cliff which faces the Tasman Sea, and is located in the suburb of Watsons Bay. Although the cliff is a popular tourist destination, it is infamous for suicides.

Gap Park is located on a coastal escarpment on Sydney Harbour’s South Head. It has spectacular views of both the harbour and the ocean. A weather worn memorial to an officer killed in the Boer War, is at the entrance to Gap Park.

Bondi Beach

Heading south, they drove past the world famous Bondi Beach, the south side is closed for the moment, due to Sculptures by the Sea. This is the beach where Bondi Lifeguards of the Bondi Rescue TV series is filmed. When in Sydney it is one of the places you should visit. The beach is seriously nice (but not our favourite) and often we stop near the lifeguard station, made famous by the TV series “Bondi Rescue”. Bondi Beach is one of the most visited tourist sites in Australia. Bondi Beach is recorded by the Australian Museum that Bondi means place where a fight using boondi sticks (nullas nullas or fighting sticks) took place.

However, the 2 hours was up so quickly. Our trike rider rode through the city and dropped them off back at their hotel. What a wonderful way to start an memorable international holiday!! In conclusion, the family Sydney trike tour was fun and memorable. A great way to start a holiday.

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Our passenger friends chose Sydney’s Eastern Panorama ride on the Harleys for some fun. From New Zealand, one has moved over here for work, the other is here for a short holiday. They decided this tour would show them so much of Sydney, hopefully to get their bearings.

Circular Quay

Our 2 Harley riders picked them up at Circular Quay. We emailed instructions and a map of exactly where to meet. Often referred to as the “gateway to Sydney”, the Circular Quay precinct has views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House and is a common location for viewing Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks. It has a number of ferry wharves, bus stops, and a railway station.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Firstly, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Kirribilli

Next, they rode past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. Further on is Admiralty House. It is the Sydney residence of the Governor-General and one of the most historic and important residences on Sydney Harbour. The house – originally called ‘Wotonga’ – was built in the mid 1800’s.

After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos. What a great view of the Sydney Opera House!

The Kirribilli Loop

Then, they rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool.

Back over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and through the city to Centennial Park.

Centennial Park

Then, the Harley riders rode through the city to the lovely Centennial Park. Originally a swamp, it was then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney. Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888. Sir Henry Parkes’ vision was to create a ‘People’s Park’ in which the citizens of Sydney could ‘take in the air’ away from the Sydney town centre.

In it’s 130th year (2018), Centennial Park – the ‘People’s Park – has been honoured with an Australian National Heritage Listing. This elevates the Park to the status of other National Heritage places such as Bondi Beach, the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Australian War Memorial.

Fun Fact

Freshwater eels live their adult lives (up to sixty years) in the ponds of Centennial Park. To breed, these eels go on an incredible journey through drains and over roads, down to Botany Bay, where they enter salt water and migrate towards New Caledonia where they lay their eggs deep in the ocean. From the Centennial Parklands website.

Queens Park

Next door, is Queens Park is a 26-hectare urban park, set in a natural amphitheatre at the foot of dramatic sandstone cliffs, with panoramic views of the Sydney region. It’s right next to the famous Centennial Park so they rode through it. So far, Sydney’s Eastern Panorama ride experience on the Harleys has already been very fun and informative.

Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve

Continuing east, it was to the Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve. This extends from the southern end of Bronte Beach to the rock baths at Coogee Beach and out to 100 m offshore. It covers an area of approximately 40 hectares and includes 4,000m of coastline.

The objectives of the aquatic reserve is:

1. conserve the biodiversity of fish and marine vegetation
2. protect fish habitat
3. facilitate educational activities
4. facilitate scientific research.

Tamarama Beach

Then, they rode further north to the tiny but picturesque Tamarama Beach. It’s lovely to look out to the South Pacific Ocean from any of the beaches. Initially known as Dixon Bay by early European settlers, the name was changed to Tamarama in the 1800s. Tamarama is probably a derivation of the Aboriginal name ‘Gamma Gamma’ (possibly meaning ‘storm’), which appeared on maps of the coastline in the 1860s by the Military or Naval Authority.

Bondi Beach

Slightly further north, they rode past the world famous Bondi Beach. Here, there is a lovely view overlooking the whole of Bondi Beach. The beach was made extra famous by the TV series “Bondi Rescue” and is one of the most visited tourist sites in Australia. Bondi Beach is recorded by the Australian Museum that Bondi means place where a fight using boondi sticks (nullas nullas or fighting sticks) took place. Even our passengers knew about “Bondi Rescue”.

Eastern suburbs

Heading east was next, through the posh suburbs of the eastern suburbs of Sydney, including the Bays: Rose Bay, Double Bay and Rushcutters Bay.

Kings Cross

Continuing on, they rode through the infamous Kings Cross, although it has calmed down a lot since it’s heyday – home of the famous and huge Coca Cola sign. Kings Cross is also home to nightclubs and ladies of the night though it is not nearly as raunchy as it was in the 1970s (apparently). Then it was down the hill and into Potts Point.

Woolloomooloo, Harry’s and Garden Island

Further on, Woolloomooloo is known for Finger Wharf, an old cargo dock that attracts a trendy clientele with fine dining, hip bars and water views on all sides. It also has the famous Harry Cafe De Wheels which has been serving customers for over 80 years. They make delicious pies, hotdogs and more. Lots of interesting photos are on the walls, mostly of famous celebrities who have visited over the years. They rode past Garden Island which is the location of a major Royal Australian Navy base.

However, the 1.5 hours was nearly up. The Harley riders dropped the passengers in the Rocks so they could continue exploring the fabulous area.

The Rocks

Another interesting place in Sydney, is the Rocks. It’s the most historic place in Australia, the Rocks. It is a neighbourhood of historic laneways in the shadow of Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Rocks became established shortly after the colony’s formation in 1788 so it is the oldest residential, developed area in Australia – the birthplace of modern Sydney. With the arrival of European settlers in 1788, it was here that the convicts first set up house and shop.

In conclusion, Sydney’s Eastern Panorama ride on the Harleys was fun, scenic and memorable – for all the right reasons.

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The Harley tour in memory of her friend, was for our passenger from Finland. Her friend used to ride a Harley so Nina decided this would be a good way to honour her friend’s memory. She booked the 4 hour Southern Spectacular tour and part of the email she wrote afterwards says, “…Had a fab day!…” . Our Harley rider picked her up from her accommodation in Surry Hills.

Surry Hills

Surry Hills is old established and very interesting, area of inner Sydney. The first land grants in Surry Hills were made in the 1790s. Nowadays, Surry Hills has a mixture of residential, commercial and light industrial areas. It remains Sydney’s main centre for fashion wholesale activities, particularly on the western side.

Sutherland Shire

Firstly, they rode through the Sutherland Shire. It is located at the southern border of the Sydney metropolitan area, 26km from the Sydney CBD. It is home to one of Sydney’s longest surf beaches. Moreover, Kurnell within the Sutherland Shire was the original landing place of Captain James Cook on 29th April 1770, making the Shire the birthplace of our modern nation.

the Royal National Park

Then, they did a scenic cruise through the historic Royal National Park. The second oldest national park in the world. Established in 1879 it is Australia’s first national park and the world’s second oldest national park – after Yellowstone in the USA. It features unique heritage attractions, along with fascinating plants, birds and animals.

Originally known as just National Park, it was renamed Royal National Park in 1955, in honour of Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Australia in 1954. It was added to the Australian National Heritage List in 2006.

Our passenger saw some beautiful sights while riding through the lovely National Park. Something not many people experience.

Stanwell Tops and Bald Hill Lookout

The first stop was Bald Hill Lookout, with sweeping views before heading across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and onto Wollongong’s lighthouses—yes, there are actually two side by side! It rests on the Illawarra escarpment, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the neighbouring village of Stanwell Park. It is bounded on all sides by state-forest reserves and other forested crown lands.

Bald Hill Lookout not only has excellent views but the area is also internationally known as a major hang-gliding point. It was on the beach below Bald Hill that Lawrence Hargrave, an Australian pioneer of flight, made a successful flight with his box kite, on 12 November 1894. A memorial cairn dedicated to him has been erected at the peak of the hill near the car park.

Bald Hill overlooks the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge which is where we are heading after here.

Stanwell Park

After that, they drove down to Stanwell Park and saw the beautiful beach. So far, the Harley tour in memory of her friend was an impressive experience with plenty of fab views.

Coalcliff

Coalcliff is beginning of the famous Sea Cliff Bridge coming from the North. It is a suburb of northern Wollongong at the base of the Illawarra escarpment. Founded in 1797 when survivors of a wreck set out to find Sydney and found coal here, which they used to make a fire for warmth.

Explorer George Bass was then sent by Governor Hunter to investigate, and found several seams that extended for some distance.

Sea Cliff Bridge

Continuing on, they rode onto the Sea Cliff Bridge and along the coastline. The 665 metre long Sea Cliff Bridge is a highlight along the Grand Pacific Drive – an award-winning drive which takes is a 140 kilometres worth of coastal scenery from the Royal National Park, Loftus down to Nowra.

Figtree

Then, they stopped for a stretch and a drink before riding through Figtree. Figtree is an inner western suburb of Wollongong. The suburb is named after a giant fig tree that once stood on the eastern side of the highway. It was a mountain pass used in early days of settlement built by subscription in 1821 before completion by convict labour. At Figtree, they turned west.

Mt Kembla

Next, they rode through the charming village of Mt Kembla, 100km south of Sydney CBD. The suburb, a semi-rural township of Wollongong, gets its name from the mountain, located on the Illawarra escarpment, is derived from an Aboriginal word, kembla, meaning “plenty of game”. From, here, they headed north.

Mount Keira

Further north, Mount Keira is a local landmark of Wollongong, towering 463.9 metres high. The Harley roared as they climbed to Mt Keira Lookout, where the clouds added a mystical touch to the stunning scenery.

However, the 4 hours was almost up. So they headed north to the drop off point in Surry Hills. The ride back offered a perfect mix of freeway and old highway—yin to the coastal road’s yang.

In conclusion, the Harley tour in memory of her friend was memorable and fun experience. Feel the Freedom!

Information about the Southern Spectacular tour.

The Sydney Harley tour experience was booked by Michelle for herself. She is a regular visitor to Sydney to see her kids. So this time, she decided to have some fun herself. Our Harley rider picked her up from her accommodation in Coogee.

Coogee

Firstly, they rode past Coogee Beach which is more chilled than its neighbour Bondi. It’s a beautiful beach and slightly more famous than most other beaches, due to a well know hotel in Coogee. The name Coogee is said to be taken from a local Aboriginal word koojah which means “smelly place”. Another version is koo-chai or koo-jah, both of which mean “the smell of the seaweed drying” in the Bidigal language, or “stinking seaweed”, a reference to the smell of decaying kelp washed up on the beach. Coogee was gazetted as a village in 1838. The first school was built in 1863, and the building was converted into the Coogee Bay Hotel in 1873 (Wikipedia).

Centennial Parklands

Secondly, they rode past Centennial Park. 120 fields and venues, and 35+ different sports played in the Centennial Parklands. It is the largest community sports precinct in Australia! The history is also interesting: “Originally a swamp and then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney. Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888. Sir Henry Parkes’ vision was to create a ‘People’s Park’ in which the citizens of Sydney could ‘take in the air’ away from the Sydney town centre.” – from their website.

Fun Fact

Freshwater eels live their adult lives (up to sixty years) in the ponds of Centennial Park. To breed, these eels go on an incredible journey through drains and over roads, down to Botany Bay, where they enter salt water and migrate towards New Caledonia where they lay their eggs deep in the ocean. From the Centennial Parklands website.

Moore Park

Next, they rode through Moore Park is home to Sydney (Alliance) Stadium. It’s where Rugby is played. This entertainment, dining and leisure hub spans 115 hectares and includes the serene Centennial Park, all only a stone’s throw from the city centre. From watching a major sporting match and browsing farmers’ markets to going horse riding, playing golf and enjoying a range of fun indoors activities, including wine tasting.

Eastern Distributor

Then it was onto the Eastern Distributor. This is a 4.7 km long motorway which links the Sydney central business district with the south-east and Sydney Airport.

Cahill Expressway

This led them onto the Cahill Expressway. It is a freeway and was the first freeway constructed in Australia, with the first section being opened to traffic in March 1958. It takes one over the top of Circular Quay.

Circular Quay

Often referred to as the “gateway to Sydney”, the precinct has views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House and is a common location for viewing Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks. It hosts a number of ferry wharves, bus stops, and a railway station.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Riding further, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Blues Point Reserve

Continuing on, they rode on through Milsons Point, did a left hand turn and rode up a few streets. This lead to Blues Point Reserve. The views over Blues Bay towards the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the CBD are just stunning. All the more stunning because of the lovely weather. Another perfect place for photos, it’s where this photo was taken.

They continued riding on through North Sydney and Crows Nest before joining River Road. It is a fun road to ride on. River Road leads to Burns Bay Road which, in turn, leads to another bridge but not one of the main three. So far, the Sydney Harley tour experience on Harley Davidson, was already so much fun.

Fig Tree Bridge, Tarban Creek Bridge, Gladesville Bridge

The first bridge is an old but smallish bridge – the Fig Tree Bridge. It opened in 1963 and spans the Lane Cove River. After that bridge, they continued on and crossed the second of the bridges Tarban Creek Bridge. This spans Tarban Creek, likewise, it has nice views east to the Harbour Bridge. Then they got to bridge #2 of the main 3 Bridges, the Gladesville Bridge. It has wonderful views along Parramatta River towards the Harbour Bridge and the city.

Gladesville Bridge is a heritage-listed concrete arch road bridge that carries Victoria Road over the Parramatta River, from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa). It was the first 305-metre (1,000 ft) span concrete bridge in the world and had a substantial number of engineering and technical elements that made it a world-leading bridge design and construction achievement. It was also the first bridge, if not one of the first bridges, to utilise computer programming in its construction.

This bridge is on the main arterial thoroughfare of Victoria Road – from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa).

Bay Run

Then, they did a detour off the main arterial road through the inner west suburbs of Rozelle, Lilyfield, Haberfield, Five Dock and Drummoyne. They followed part of the Bay Run. It is a 7km long (4.3 mi) shared use path for cyclists and pedestrians that encircles much of Iron Cove. It never deviates more than 20m from the water so the views are pretty nice.

ANZAC Bridge

Riding over our favourite bridge, the ANZAC Bridge, is an experience. We think it is incredible, a work of art and design. It is main bridge #3. Similarly, it is also great to see without a roof over your head inhibiting the view.

Most noteworthy, the stay cable design concept development and final design for the new bridge were carried out by the Roads & Traffic Authority of NSW. Finally, the bridge was opened to traffic on 03 December 1995 as the Glebe Island Bridge.

The bridge was given its current name on Remembrance Day in 1998 to honour the memory of the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (known as ANZACs) who served in World War I.

However, one hour was up so they had half an hour to get to drop off. They headed south east, through the city and back to Coogee. Michelle loved the Sydney Harley tour experience and wants to do another one, next time she is back in Australia.

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The memories made trike tour in Sydney was fun and a great experience!! Kathryn and her mum Alice saw our trike ride past them. 90 year old Alice said, “wouldn’t that be fun!!” So Kathryn organised it for Alice and her daughter Lucy. It is a great memory for Lucy the granddaughter to always have of her grandmother.

Part of an email Kathryn wrote after the ride “…mum had absolutely the best time…”.

Surry Hills

Our trike rider picked them up from Alice’s nursing home in Surry Hills. The first land grants in Surry Hills were made in the 1790s. Nowadays, Surry Hills has a mixture of residential, commercial and light industrial areas. It remains Sydney’s main centre for fashion wholesale activities, particularly on the western side.

Macquarie Street

Firstly, they did a few turns and headed north so they rode along Macquarie Street. It is the location of the main governmental institutions of NSW: Parliament House, Government House, and the Law Courts Building (which houses the Supreme Court of New South Wales). There is so much history behind Macquarie St. and the buildings that front it.

In the years since its founding in 1788, Sydney had developed organically, and by the early 1800s was lacking in major public buildings, and had a complex network of narrow streets. The supply of drinking water and waste management was also becoming an issue. Governor Macquarie initiated the construction of Sydney’s first public buildings of any real permanence and set the boundaries of Sydney’s grid of streets, laying out the street in 1810.

Opera House

Then, they rode further north west and this brought them to the iconic Sydney Opera House. We can’t ride close to it but you can see it from a different angle to the usual. The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, but completed by an Australian architectural team headed by Peter Hall, the building was formally opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973.

Circular Quay

Next, they rode through Circular Quay. Often referred to as the “gateway to Sydney”, the precinct has views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House and is a common location for viewing Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks. It hosts a number of ferry wharves, bus stops, and a railway station.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Riding further, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Kirribilli’s famous jacaranda street

Interestingly, every year, between mid October and late November, thousands of people descend on Kirribilli’s streets to marvel at the purple canopy created by the 30 jacaranda trees that line McDougall Street. We show our passengers them during some of our tours, including this one. Already, the memories made trike tour in Sydney, was fun and informative and most importantly, they were creating memories.

Kirribilli

Then, they rode past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. Further on is Admiralty House. It is the Sydney residence of the Governor-General and one of the most historic and important residences on Sydney Harbour. The house – originally called ‘Wotonga’ – was built in the mid 1800’s.

After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos, it’s where this photo was taken. What a great view of the Sydney Opera House!

The Kirribilli Loop

They rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool.

Then, it was back over the Sydney Harbour Bridge to Chinatown.

Chinatown

Sydney isn’t the only global city with a Chinatown, but this one is bigger, better and boasts more than most thanks to the Chinese immigrants who started arriving in the 1800s. Dixon Street is the main street for Chinatown, with many shops and Chinese restaurants in a pedestrian-only street. In the 1980s business owners raised funds for the ceremonial Chinese archways found at the entrance.

However, the one hour was almost up so our trike rider rode back to the nursing home and dropped them off. In conclusion, the memories made trike tour around Sydney was so much fun. Memories were made for 90 year old Alice and her 19 year old Granddaughter Lucy. We love this!!

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The disability social fun trike rides were so much fun! We do this every year for this group, sometimes more than once. “ADventure Out was established in January 2021 as a Charity as a Disability Social Group” – that’s what their website says. As usual, we gave a big discount for people with a disability, however, we can’t do it for free – as much as we’d love to.

The trike tour ride

There was a large group of people with a disability and their carers. Our trike rider took them on rides around Centennial Park. As he said, not each ride was exactly the same. There are lots of little back roads and niche places to be found. He actually found a lot of them today 😆.

Centennial Park

It is interesting riding through the huge Centennial Park, a lovely experience. 120 fields and venues, and 35+ different sports played in the Centennial Parklands. It is the largest community sports precinct in Australia! The history is also interesting: “Originally a swamp and then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney. Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888. Sir Henry Parkes’ vision was to create a ‘People’s Park’ in which the citizens of Sydney could ‘take in the air’ away from the Sydney town centre.” – from their website.

Fun Fact

Freshwater eels live their adult lives (up to sixty years) in the ponds of Centennial Park. To breed, these eels go on an incredible journey through drains and over roads, down to Botany Bay, where they enter salt water and migrate towards New Caledonia where they lay their eggs deep in the ocean. From the Centennial Parklands website.

Summary

However, we were booked for 3 hours which was too short 😄. Our trike rider did 4 hours and could have done more but he was exhausted. It’s a long time with only one break. In conclusion, the disability social fun trike was fun and gave our passengers more of an experience than they expected.

Design your own ride

The 50th birthday trike tour was a fabulous way to celebrate. Our friends are from the mid north coast of NSW and were born on the same day. They and their husbands decided to come to Sydney for a mini holiday to celebrate. Our trike rider picked them up form their hotel in the CBD.

Macquarie Street

Firstly, they did a few turns and headed north so they rode along Macquarie Street. It is the location of the main governmental institutions of NSW: Parliament House, Government House, and the Law Courts Building (which houses the Supreme Court of New South Wales). There is so much history behind Macquarie St. and the buildings that front it.

In the years since its founding in 1788, Sydney had developed organically, and by the early 1800s was lacking in major public buildings, and had a complex network of narrow streets. The supply of drinking water and waste management was also becoming an issue. Governor Macquarie initiated the construction of Sydney’s first public buildings of any real permanence and set the boundaries of Sydney’s grid of streets, laying out the street in 1810.

Opera House

This brought them to the iconic Sydney Opera House. We can’t ride close but you can see it from a different angle to the usual. The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, but completed by an Australian architectural team headed by Peter Hall, the building was formally opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973.

St Mary’s Cathedral

Secondly, they rode through the city and past St Mary’s Cathedral which is very impressive, even when riding past. It’s a Gothic Revival architectural building which opened in 1928. It took from 1866 to 1928 to build and has a height of 75m.

Domain

Next, they rode through the city and past the Domain. The Domain is a heritage-listed 34-hectare (84-acre) area of open space located on the eastern fringe of the Sydney CBD.

Woolloomooloo, Harry’s and Garden Island

The inner eastern suburb of Woolloomoolloo has the famous Harry Cafe De Wheels. Harry’s Café de Wheels has been serving customers for over 80 years. They make delicious pies, hotdogs and more. Lots of interesting photos are on the walls, mostly of famous celebrities who have visited over the years. They rode past Garden Island and up the hill through Potts Point.

Kings Cross

Further on, they rode through the infamous Kings Cross, though it has calmed down a lot since it’s heyday – home of the famous and huge Coca Cola sign. Kings Cross is also home to nightclubs and ladies of the night though it is not nearly as raunchy as it was in the 1970s (apparently).

Eastern suburbs

Continuing on, they headed west through the posh suburbs of the eastern suburbs of Sydney, including the Bays: Rose Bay, Double Bay and Rushcutters Bay. So far, on the 50th birthday trike tour the passengers have seen so many beautiful places.

Vaucluse

Down the hill, they headed north through the posh eastern suburb of Vaucluse. The first European activity in the area took place not long after settlement, when a makeshift signalling station was set up on the ridge overlooking the ocean. Its role was to signal the colony if a ship was approaching. Pilots based at Camp Cove, Watsons Bay, could then meet the ship and guide it through the harbour. A formal signal station was established in 1790, serviced by a bridle trail that later became Old South Head Road in 1811.

Watsons Bay and The Gap

Heading North through some upper class suburbs, they rode to “The Gap” and stopped for photos. The view is towards North Head and out to the South Pacific Ocean. Watsons Bay sits on the end of the South Head peninsula. The Gap is an ocean cliff which faces the Tasman Sea, and is located in the suburb of Watsons Bay. Although the cliff is a popular tourist destination, it is infamous for suicides.

Gap Park is located on a coastal escarpment on Sydney Harbour’s South Head. It has spectacular views of both the harbour and the ocean. A weather worn memorial to an officer killed in the Boer War, is at the entrance to Gap Park.

Bondi Beach

Next, they drove past the world famous Bondi Beach, the south side is closed for the moment, due to Sculptures by the Sea. This is the beach where Bondi Lifeguards of the Bondi Rescue TV series is filmed. When in Sydney it is one of the places you should visit. The beach is seriously nice (but not our favourite) and often we stop near the lifeguard station, made famous by the TV series “Bondi Rescue”. Bondi Beach is one of the most visited tourist sites in Australia. Bondi Beach is recorded by the Australian Museum that Bondi means place where a fight using boondi sticks (nullas nullas or fighting sticks) took place.

Today, we stopped at South Bondi. Here, there is a lovely view looking north, overlooking the whole of Bondi Beach. It’s where this photo was taken.

Tamarama + Bronte

Riding further south, along more beautiful, though possibly less well known, beaches. The suburb of Tamarama has a small ocean beach about 1 kilometre south of Bondi Beach and a couple of hundred metres north of Bronte Beach. It is an extremely narrow beach and deceptive for its size. Tamarama Beach is often referred to as Glamarama (or Glamourama), owing to the alleged abundance of glamorous people who sunbathe (often topless), on what must be one of the smallest strips of sand in the state (Wikipedia).

Bronte Beach sits on Nelson Bay, surrounded by Bronte Park. Bronte offers scenic cliff-top walking paths south to Coogee via the Waverley Cemetery and north to Tamarama and Bondi Beach.

Queens Park

Next, the trike rider turned west and past Queens Park. It is a 26-hectare urban park, set in a natural amphitheatre at the foot of dramatic sandstone cliffs, with panoramic views of the Sydney region. It’s right next to the famous Centennial Park so they rode through the gates and into Centennial Park. The 50th birthday trike tour – what a way to celebrate!

Centennial Park

It is interesting riding through the huge Centennial Park is a lovely experience. 120 fields and venues, and 35+ different sports played in the Centennial Parklands. It is the largest community sports precinct in Australia! The history is also interesting: “Originally a swamp and then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney. Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888. Sir Henry Parkes’ vision was to create a ‘People’s Park’ in which the citizens of Sydney could ‘take in the air’ away from the Sydney town centre.”

Oxford Street

There was enough time to ride down the famous Oxford Street. The western section of Oxford Street, which runs through the suburb of Darlinghurst, is widely recognised as Sydney’s main gay district and Oxford Street is closed to traffic once a year in early March for the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

The Lord Nelson

However, the husbands were getting bored so the trike rider suggested he drop the passengers at their next destination. It happened to be the Lord Nelson. Now the husbands were happy 😆. The Lord is Sydney’s oldest continually licensed hotel still trading within its original fabric.

By now, the 1.5 hrs was almost up so Fred rode through the city and dropped them at the Lord Nelson to meet up with their husbands. In conclusion, the 50th birthday trike tour was a fun way to celebrate! A memorable and unique experience to always remember.

Check out our tours and prices here. Remember these are tour ideas, we can adapt them to go anywhere you’d like to see.

Marie’s son knew his 83 year old Mum has always wanted to do a Harley Davidson tour around Sydney. So when she came for a visit he organised it for her. She lives interstate and has her own motorcycle licence. Marie wrote to us after the tour; “…Loved every minute of my ride …”. The Harley bucket list tick was a huge happy tick!

Milsons Point

Our rider met Marie at Milsons Point, just over the Harbour Bridge. We emailed a map of where to meet. Milsons Point is a suburb on the lower North Shore of Sydney. It is located 3 km north of the Sydney CBD.

The suburb was named after James Milson, a free settler originally from England. Milson settled in the area near Milsons Point and established a profitable business supplying ships with stone ballast, fresh water, and the produce of his dairy, orchard, and vegetable gardens. In the early 1820s, Milson settled in the vicinity of Jeffrey Street, Kirribilli.

Blues Point Reserve

Firstly, they headed off to Blues Point Reserve for a photo of our fabulous harbour with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge as a backdrop. The views over Blues Bay towards the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the CBD are just stunning. All the more stunning because of the lovely weather. Another perfect place for photos, it’s where this photo was taken.

Bradleys Head

Secondly, they rode east along a couple of back roads to Bradleys Head. While riding past Taronga Zoo to Bradleys Head, make sure you look for the koalas eating and sleeping in the gum trees. They did see a few brush turkeys running around.

Bradleys Head has wonderful views across Sydney Harbour to the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the CBD. It’s in the suburb of Mosman and is one of Sydney Harbour’s most prominent natural features. First Fleet officers observed and named it, almost every ship entering Sydney Harbour has sailed past it, it possesses Aboriginal, military and naval associations, and it has for many years been the location of various recreational activities.

Mosman Wharf

Next, it was down to Mosman Wharf, with beautiful Sydney Harbour views. The first regular ferry service was arranged by property developer Richard Harnett in the early 1870s. A tram service to the wharf commenced in March 1897.

Balmoral Beach

Riding on, they rode past the lovely posh Balmoral Beach. Everyone who comes here loves it! Balmoral Beach is not so well known by visitors and tourists, but the stunning natural beauty of the beach and surrounds make it well worth a visit. Already, the Harley bucket list tick tour was showing our passenger some beautiful and unique places and views!

Balmoral Burn

Amazingly, the Balmoral Burn is the next experience. Phil Kearns AM, came up with the idea of running up Mosman’s Awaba St as a way to raise funds. It was to say thank you to the Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) after one of his sons received emergency care, for suspected meningococcal. It started 22 years ago and is now called The Balmoral Burn.

At its steepest the gradient is nearly 30%, and over its length it rises about 70 metres (230 ft). So far, $33.7 million has been raised! Wow!

The Spit

Then, it was through Spit, which is a suburb in its own right. It protrudes off Beauty Point and is home to the Spit Bridge, a bascule bridge opened in 1958 over Middle Harbour. The bridge opens at set times to allow yachts with high masts to pass. Crossing the Spit Bridge is fun, it has great views of Middle Harbour.

Balgowlah

Next, they rode through Balgowlah. It was named in 1832 after an Aboriginal word meaning north harbour in reference to its position from Port Jackson. Firstly, they rode through Clontarf (Irish: Cluain Tarbh, meaning “meadow of the bull”), which is a lovely harbour suburb. There are some lovely views from here.

Queenscliff

The northern end of Manly Beach is actually called Queenscliff Beach. It was named in honour of Queen Victoria (England). The area was popular with holiday-makers from the early 1900s to World War I, who stayed in holiday shacks on the headland. The suburb is famous amongst the Australian surf beaches for its “heavy” waves (bomboras) that break out at sea.

Manly

Of course, they had to ride past the famous main beach of Manly. Manly has several claims to fame; it was the birthplace of surfing in Australia, the first place to legalise all-day bathing in 1903 and one of the world’s first Surf Life Saving clubs. Manly Beach was the location for the first World Surfing Championships held in 1964.

However, the 1.5 hrs was almost up so they headed west and then south over the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Pyrmont Bridge

Finally they rode to the drop off point. The Pyrmont Bridge, a heritage-listed swing bridge across Cockle Bay, is located in Darling Harbour, part of Port Jackson, west of the CBD. Yes, we have many layers of names for places 😆.

The first Pyrmont Bridge was opened on 17 March 1858, and was a wooden pile bridge with an iron centre ‘swing panel’ to allow ships to pass. In the first two weeks 20,000 pedestrians paid the one penny toll. When the NSW government bought the bridge for £52,500 from the Pyrmont Bridge Company in 1884, they abolished the toll.

Marie was dropped off near Pyrmont Bridge, at her son’s work place. In conclusion, the Harley bucket list tick was a huge tick. Marie loved the whole experience and saw parts of Sydney she had never seen before.

Design your own ride!

Our passengers are from the UK, in Sydney for a holiday. What a great destination 😂😍, not that we are bias!! They decided to do the Sydney holiday Harley tour on two of our beautiful motorcycles. It is a great way to see some of our beautiful city in a short time.

Circular Quay

Firstly, they were picked up at Circular Quay. Often referred to as the “gateway to Sydney”, the precinct has views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House and is a common location for viewing Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks. It hosts a number of ferry wharves, bus stops, and a railway station.

We emailed a map and instructions of where to meet.

Centennial Park

Then, the Harley riders rode through the city to the lovely Centennial Park. Originally a swamp, it was then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney. Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888. Sir Henry Parkes’ vision was to create a ‘People’s Park’ in which the citizens of Sydney could ‘take in the air’ away from the Sydney town centre.

In it’s 130th year (2018), Centennial Park – the ‘People’s Park – has been honoured with an Australian National Heritage Listing. This elevates the Park to the status of other National Heritage places such as Bondi Beach, the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Australian War Memorial.

‘Great Inaugural Procession’

Centennial Park has outstanding heritage value to the nation. It’s the site chosen for one of the defining events in Australia’s history: the inauguration of the Commonwealth of Australia.

The inauguration event held at Centennial Park on 1 January 1901 was a key moment in Australia’s progression to a unified Commonwealth. The six colonies of South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland were brought together as one.

These actions marked the creation of a new democracy. From this moment, on 1 January 1901, the Commonwealth of Australia became a self-governing nation.

Queens Park

Next door, is Queens Park is a 26-hectare urban park, set in a natural amphitheatre at the foot of dramatic sandstone cliffs, with panoramic views of the Sydney region. It’s right next to the famous Centennial Park so they rode through it. So far, the Sydney holiday Harley tour experience has already been very fun and informative.

Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve

Continuing east, it was to the Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve. This extends from the southern end of Bronte Beach to the rock baths at Coogee Beach and out to 100 m offshore. It covers an area of approximately 40 hectares and includes 4,000m of coastline.

The objectives of the aquatic reserve is:

1. conserve the biodiversity of fish and marine vegetation
2. protect fish habitat
3. facilitate educational activities
4. facilitate scientific research.

Tamarama Beach

Then, they rode further north to the tiny but picturesque Tamarama Beach. It’s lovely to look out to the South Pacific Ocean from any of the beaches. Initially known as Dixon Bay by early European settlers, the name was changed to Tamarama in the 1800s. Tamarama is probably a derivation of the Aboriginal name ‘Gamma Gamma’ (possibly meaning ‘storm’), which appeared on maps of the coastline in the 1860s by the Military or Naval Authority.

Bondi Beach

Slightly further north, they rode past the world famous Bondi Beach. Here, there is a lovely view overlooking the whole of Bondi Beach. The beach was made extra famous by the TV series “Bondi Rescue” and is one of the most visited tourist sites in Australia. Bondi Beach is recorded by the Australian Museum that Bondi means place where a fight using boondi sticks (nullas nullas or fighting sticks) took place. Even our passengers knew about “Bondi Rescue”.

Eastern suburbs

Heading east was next, through the posh suburbs of the eastern suburbs of Sydney, including the Bays: Rose Bay, Double Bay and Rushcutters Bay.

Kings Cross

Continuing on, they rode through the infamous Kings Cross, although it has calmed down a lot since it’s heyday – home of the famous and huge Coca Cola sign. Kings Cross is also home to nightclubs and ladies of the night though it is not nearly as raunchy as it was in the 1970s (apparently). Then it was down the hill and into Potts Point.

Woolloomooloo, Harry’s and Garden Island

Further on, Woolloomooloo is known for Finger Wharf, an old cargo dock that attracts a trendy clientele with fine dining, hip bars and water views on all sides. It also has the famous Harry Cafe De Wheels which has been serving customers for over 80 years. They make delicious pies, hotdogs and more. Lots of interesting photos are on the walls, mostly of famous celebrities who have visited over the years. They rode past Garden Island which is the location of a major Royal Australian Navy base.

However, the 1.5 hours was almost up, so our Harley Davidson riders rode through the city and dropped them at Circular Quay. From here, they could catch the train back to where they are staying – in the western suburbs. Part of a WhatsApp message after the tour, from Vicki; “…we had the most amazing morning…”.

In conclusion, we reckon the Sydney holiday Harley tour was a big success. A memorable and fun experience. Feel the Freedom!!

Design your own ride

The 4 hour Christmas tour Gift Voucher was given to Lynette by her daughter and family for Christmas a few years ago. Our Gift Vouchers are valid for 3 years so there is plenty of time to use them. Part of an email afterwards; “…Mum had a great time…”

The Harley rider picked Lynette up from home in Sutherland Shire, south of Sydney CBD.

Sutherland Shire

Sutherland Shire is located at the southern border of the Sydney metropolitan area, 26km from the Sydney CBD. It is home to one of Sydney’s longest surf beaches. Moreover, Kurnell within the Sutherland Shire was the original landing place of Captain James Cook on 29th April 1770, making the Shire the birthplace of our modern nation.

the Royal National Park

Firstly, they did a scenic cruise through the historic Royal National Park. The second oldest national park in the world. Established in 1879 it is Australia’s first national park and the world’s second oldest national park – after Yellowstone in the USA. It features unique heritage attractions, along with fascinating plants, birds and animals.

Originally known as just National Park, it was renamed Royal National Park in 1955, in honour of Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Australia in 1954. It was added to the Australian National Heritage List in 2006.

Stanwell Tops and Bald Hill Lookout

The first stop was Bald Hill Lookout, with sweeping views before heading across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and onto Wollongong’s lighthouses—yes, there are actually two side by side! It rests on the Illawarra escarpment, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the neighbouring village of Stanwell Park. It is bounded on all sides by state-forest reserves and other forested crown lands.

Bald Hill Lookout not only has excellent views but the area is also internationally known as a major hang-gliding point. It was on the beach below Bald Hill that Lawrence Hargrave, an Australian pioneer of flight, made a successful flight with his box kite, on 12 November 1894. A memorial cairn dedicated to him has been erected at the peak of the hill near the car park.

Bald Hill overlooks the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge which is where we are heading after here.

Stanwell Park

After that, they drove down to Stanwell Park and saw the beautiful beach. So far, the Christmas tour Gift Voucher trike tour experience was impressive. Our passenger has seen some beautiful views and ridden through the lovely National Park. Something not many people experience.

Coalcliff

Coalcliff is beginning of the famous Sea Cliff Bridge coming from the North. It is a suburb of northern Wollongong at the base of the Illawarra escarpment. Founded in 1797 when survivors of a wreck set out to find Sydney and found coal here, which they used to make a fire for warmth.

Explorer George Bass was then sent by Governor Hunter to investigate, and found several seams that extended for some distance.

Sea Cliff Bridge

Continuing on, we rode onto the Sea Cliff Bridge and along the coastline. The 665 metre long Sea Cliff Bridge is a highlight along the Grand Pacific Drive – an award-winning drive which takes is a 140 kilometres worth of coastal scenery from the Royal National Park, Loftus down to Nowra.

Figtree

They stopped for a stretch and a drink before riding through Figtree. Figtree is an inner western suburb of Wollongong. The suburb is named after a giant fig tree that once stood on the eastern side of the highway. It was a mountain pass used in early days of settlement built by subscription in 1821 before completion by convict labour. At Figtree, they turned west.

Mt Kembla

Next, they rode through the charming village of Mt Kembla, 100km south of Sydney CBD. The suburb, a semi-rural township of Wollongong, gets its name from the mountain, located on the Illawarra escarpment, is derived from an Aboriginal word, kembla, meaning “plenty of game”. From, here, they headed north.

Mount Keira

Further north, Mount Keira is a local landmark of Wollongong, towering 463.9 metres high. The Harley roared as they climbed to Mt Keira Lookout, where the clouds added a mystical touch to the stunning scenery.

However, the 4 hours was almost up. So they headed north to the drop off point – Lynette’s home. The ride home offered a perfect mix of freeway and old highway—yin to the coastal road’s yang.

In conclusion, the Christmas tour Gift Voucher was the best Christmas present! A memorable and fun experience. Feel the Freedom!

Design your own ride!