"Get back on your bike" is the call from Orange cycling enthusiasts as the calendar of social rides is set to get under way.
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The Orange Bicycle Users Group or 'Orange BUG' was due to hold its first ride on Saturday, from Spring Hill to the Lucknow with a visit to the Wentworth Mine included.
Some less than ideal weather put an end to the ride, but that didn't stop a few of the regulars taking a step back in time at the mine.
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"Since September last year, we have been hosting rides that feature different themes and experiences such as the Orange wetlands, Orange Botanic Gardens, historic villages and local architecture," BUG president Peter Rodgers said.
"With the support from Newcrest are expanding our ride program to provide rides to locals and visitors on a more regular basis.
BUG rides are provided free by cyclists to new or casual riders in Orange to help people get to know the neighbourhood, meet new people and explore the regional tourism opportunities on bike.
One of the riders who braved the weather out at Lucknow was Carolynne James.
She said the plan going forward is to do a ride every Sunday for the next couple of months.
"It's a bit like the park run model," she said.
"There are different routes every week and sometimes we'll do themed rides like this.
"With Covid happening, we noticed so many people got back on their bikes and we really wanted to capitalise on that momentum."
This year the Orange BUG has been given a grant from Newcrest Mining Cadia Valley Operations through its Community Partnership Program to support and host rides that promote healthy activity and tourist attractions in the region.
The funding will also help then train up new ride leaders and also design and implement new routes across the area for tourists.
Cadia's general manager, Aaron Brannigan, said Cadia was pleased to be supporting the Orange BUG with their expansion plans.
"The Orange BUG provides a great opportunity for people to get active while exploring some of the regions many attractions and we are pleased our support will increase the number of rides available to both locals and visitors to the area."
The rides are free to anyone with a working bike and can cater for all levels.
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