While Canberra's tagline as the nation's car capital is often reiterated, there can be little argument cyclists in the capital are not a maligned minority.

Just over six months ago, a study by the Australian Bicycle Council revealed pedal power was more popular than in any other state or territory.

This prompted a glowing assessment of the ACT's cycling scene by Canberra Cycling Club president Stuart Jones calling the city's infrastructure "excellent" and one of the easiest cities to commute in via bicycle.

Fast forward six months and cyclists are whistling an altogether gloomier tune – now the problem isn't whether they ride, it's how often and where to.