“CityNews” spoke with leading businesses deeply committed to supplying and maintaining Canberra’s two-wheeled transport options.

WHETHER for ease, financial or fitness reasons, more people are seeing and enjoying the benefits of commuting on two wheels.

For cyclists Canberra offers an intricate network of cycle paths making the trip to work a scenic and inexpensive ride.

For motorcyclists, it’s the freedom to move through traffic and all for a fraction of the cost of a car. 

Here are some leading businesses deeply committed to supplying and maintaining Canberra’s two-wheeled transport options.

‘Above and beyond’ motorcycle mechanic

HD Hospital has supplied and serviced Harley Davidson motorcycles for six years now, says owner Dave.

“I have been a mechanic since I was 15, but motorcycle apprenticeships weren’t available,” he says.

“So I’ve now serviced everything in the industry, from buses to motorcycles and everything in between, but I’ve always been passionate about motorcycles.

“I’ve hung around bikers since I was 14, and I owned my first Triumph at 19.”

Dave says he hasn’t received a bad review in his six years of running HD Hospital.

“My work is always in the customer’s favour,” he says.

“My reviews say it all, lots of customers say I go above and beyond.

“I have an open-door policy, I’m happy to help with anything and I give people a reason to come back.

“People aren’t intimidated by me, I’m friendly and I’m the most passionate motorcycle owner in the world.

“I also run Total Motor Service, with a full service and custom work. Just call.”

He also says he takes a lot of pride in his shop.

“It’s an old-school ‘70s vibe, a really good vibe,” he says.

HD Hospital, 15/18 Whyalla Street, Fyshwick. Call 0403 175304, or find them on Facebook.

Make it a cost-effective commute

COOKIES Cycles has been operating in Franklin since 2015, says owner David Cook, and offers a large range of scooters, skateboards and bikes in analog and electric.

“With the current rises in the cost of living Cookies Cycles have electric bikes for commuters that will save money on fuel and parking,” he says.

“With electric bikes starting at $1000, the cost to set yourself up to start commuting and improving fitness has never been better.

“We have bikes from Shogun, Smartmotion, NCM and XDS in stock and ready to test ride.

“If you would prefer to join the e-scooter craze we also have a large range of models from Shogun, Emove and Vsett.”

David says scooters for adults start at $850.

“If you buy a bike or scooter from Cookies Cycles you will not pay any labour for repairs for 12 months. If there is a warranty problem you pay nothing, but if it is not warranty – a flat tyre or an accident – you only pay for parts and the team and I will fix your ride,” he says.

“You also get a free service at three and 10 months, and a 10 per cent discount on parts and accessories for 12 months.

“Cookies Cycles service and repair all products they sell, and will do mechanical repairs on most brands.

“The only thing we do not do is electrical repairs on brands that we do not sell.”

Cookies Cycles, 227 Flemington Road, Franklin. Call 6242 0338 or visit cookiescycles.com.au

Flatten the hills and enjoy the ride

SWITCHED on Cycles is a local Canberra business that has been designing, importing, selling, customising, servicing and repairing e-bikes since 2008, says owner Simone Annis.

“That’s 15 years’ experience in helping people live healthier and more sustainable lives,” she says.

“We sell a number of models, and our bikes are great for commuting because you can save on parking and petrol.

“If you are wanting to get on a bike, or stay on your bike for longer, but are worried about the hills, you need an e-bike.”

Simone says e-bikes flatten the hills and make riding fun.

“E-bikes are great options for people who want to reduce their reliance on cars,” she says.

“E-bikes are also great to combine with other modes of transport like getting to the tram/bus stop.”

Switched on Cycles offers a two-day trial, free of charge, and a seven-day trial for $70.

“We give your money back if you buy a bike from us,” says Simone.

“We can also turn your existing bike into an e-bike.

“People are welcome, encouraged to come in, book a trial at a time convenient for both of us, and you can take a few models out to see if they work on your daily commute.

“I like that I get to do something I’m passionate about, which is active travel, getting people out of their cars and helping people to stay riding longer.”

Switched on Cycles, 62 Miller Street, O’Connor. Call 0450 960545, or visit switchedoncycles.com.au