More dedicated bikeways are being promised through the Adelaide CBD, with the City Council and South Australian Government each contributing $6 million to the plan.

Transport Minister Stephen Mullighan promised less road congestion and said more people would feel safe to cycle.

"This joint initiative will create and extend dedicated bikeways through the city to encourage more people to cycle," he said.

A bikeway north-south through the city along Frome Street has been under development since 2012 and the first stage to Pirie Street was finished in mid-2014, the minister said.

"We all recognise that the perfect balance wasn't achieved between the needs of cyclists and the needs of motorists and also some of the needs of people in the East End," he said, promising the current initiative would get the balance right.

An east-west corridor along Pirie and Waymouth streets is also part of the longer term plans.

Lord Mayor Martin Haese said the council would ensure any changes worked for motorists, not just cyclists.

"We will be consulting with the RAA. We will be consulting with our property owners and of course our peak cycling groups," he said.

"This is an opportunity for the council to get it right and it's precisely what we'll do."

Adelaide's bike-sharing scheme is also to be expanded, the council and State Government said.

Bike group welcomes CBD plans

Bike SA chief executive Christian Haag said the promised significant investment would benefit the city for years to come.

"From our growing tourism sector to the local city economy, the business of cycling is booming," he said.

"Across the US, Canada and New Zealand, the direct economic benefits to small business is now well understood.

"Shoppers who cycle to retail precincts spend up to 24 per cent more per month than those shoppers arriving by car."

Mr Mullighan said bikeway enhancements would benefit the second city campus for Adelaide High School, which is due to open in 2019.