It is a fact cyclist Barry O’Hagan knows all to well. 

It is the reason the Tolland Cycling Club president welcomed the news of a new cycle way that would connect Wagga’s outer suburbs. 

It follows an announcement more than $11.7 million would be spent on five cycling networks, to be built within two-and-a-half years.

Wagga MP Daryl Maguire, alongside Wagga Mayor Greg Conkey on Monday said the state government's investment would make city safer, healthier and more efficient.

Mr O’Hagan said in an accident it was always the pushbike rider that was worse for wear.

It comes after more than 300 NSW pedal cyclists were either killed or seriously injured in collisions between 2016 and 2017, according to the Centre for Road Safety. 

“Competitive riders aren’t the same as those that ride to commute,” Mr O’Hagan said. “But every bit of safety is going to be a good thing.”

Bicycle Wagga Wagga committee member Ray Stenhouse said any investment in that space was going to be a great thing.

“I’m fairly certain every member of the group would agree with me,” Mr Stenhouse said. “Hopefully it will make things safer for people using bikes to get around the city.”

He said everyone would be happy to have a safer environment to ride in.

The proposed network of cycle routes are part of Wagga council’s Active Travel Plan and a component of the Integrated Transport Strategy.

Wagga rider Paul Moriarty said he had chosen his bike over a car for more than 15 years, using it to commute to work instead of driving. 

He said even if the new cycle networks did not assist with his commute from Kooringal to RMS, it would provide an opportunity for his six children to ride. 

“You always have problems with cars not seeing you or giving way,” Mr Moriarty said. “Improving safety by getting bikes off the road would be a benefit.” 

Mayor Greg Conkey said the location of the networks would be the result of extensive community consultation across six months. 

He said the infrastructure would provide better access to the city and its outer suburbs, providing residents with more opportunities for travel; getting riders off roads and improving overall health of the city. 

“This is a huge milestone for the city,” Mr Conkey said.