I hope you will get as much enjoyment out of doing the rides in this book as I have in surveying them and preparing the book’s contents. From city to bush, flat to mountain and road to off road there is a variety to suit all recreational cyclists. The experience of bringing them all to you has been a great journey.

Whether you want leisurely family rides or to test yourself at the higher levels of recreational cycling you will find rides to suit. The variety of terrain in Eastern Victoria and the increasing attention local governments are giving to cycling infra-structure provides plenty of scope for all cyclists. The whole idea of the book is to encourage recreational cyclists of all ages and levels of experience to have a go so many of the rides are on quiet roads or separate trails. Some rides are short and others are long enough to present a challenge for a day ride for an average cyclist or, if a more leisurely pace is sought, prompt an overnight stop along the way. A few, of necessity, use busier roads to explore a particular area and you need to consider your own level of experience before attempting them.

Eastern Victoria has abundant natural beauty ranging from excellent beaches to snow capped mountains. There are towns and areas rich in history and all regions have their own attractions for the cyclist. By taking advantage of the country you ride through, and of course picking the right time, you may find yourself swimming at beautiful beaches, tasting wine or gourmet foods, reaching back into history, taking a walk in the bush or just appreciating the view and clear air. Riding along one of the many trails in this book gives you a much better view of an area than flashing by in a car. Having also exercised you can justify a stop for coffee and cake or whatever your desire is at one of the many places you pass.

All regions are becoming more switched on to the benefits of cycle tourism and for holiday makers and locals to have access to good infra-structure. In particular the North East and Gippsland Regions are using major rail trails to form the basis for cycling networks. Further improvements were under way in many places I visited. In using this book if you do come across any changes a comment on www.bicyclingaustralia.com would be welcome.

I have seen school groups with little kids with legs like sticks, retired farmers with elastic sided boots as preferred cycling footwear, young families, overseas travellers, retired couples and of course the full monty lycra road warriors on these rides. As one in the older age group I feel I have been able to gauge what is within the realm of the average rider.

Many cyclists find they have limited riding in the city which can be enjoyable in its own right. But my advice is that to experience an extra dimension in cycling and truly experience the countryside, give these rides a go. Whether you choose a particular area or work your way through all the rides in the book you will undoubtedly enjoy the experience.