In 2015, IT manager Darren Steele's youngest son had just come off training wheels when he realised something had to change.
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Having been a "big kid" growing up, and weighing 104 kilograms in his 40s, Mr Steele wanted his two boys to have the active lifestyle he never did - and he wanted to be involved.
"You look at your children growing up, and your lifestyle as an adult, and suddenly you see yourself through their eyes," Mr Steele said.
"You have to ask yourself, do I want my children to grow up with my lifestyle?"
He and wife Sarah decided to switch their household to a low-carb, low-sugar diet with limited processed foods.
Their family cycling trips, done on and off in previous years, became longer and more frequent, and Mr Steele's weight started to "fall off". Nine months later, he had lost 21 kilos - then came the dog.
"My eldest son, like a lot of kids, had been asking for a dog. Prior to being 21 kilos lighter, there was always a lot of reluctance. I thought I couldn't look after it properly," Mr Steele said.
"[Afterwards] I thought 'what the hell, let's get the dog'."
When Archie joined the family, they were looking for a way to involve him in their cycling trips when Mr Steele stumbled across the Buddy Rider pet seat.
"Now whenever we go riding, the dog comes with us. He's not left at home and we don't feel guilty. It's something we all do together," Mr Steele said.
Mr Steele says his family often get surprised looks and comments from those sharing the bike path. But he knows "it's not something you see every day".
"My wife Sarah hears everyone going 'oh wow, did you see the dog on the bike? He's so cute!'" Mr Steele said.
"It's a treat and a privilege. I get my ride, I get this unique view of people looking at us and I get to be with my family."
On October 14, Mr Steele's family - along with about 10,000 other cyclists - are taking part in the Spring Financial Group Spring Cycle, sponsored by Fairfax.
Having brought Archie last year, Mr Steele is excited for the event. He once again expects him to be under the "spotlight".
"I was a bit apprehensive at first, thinking if I'm allowed to bring Archie, but we know now that he is very welcome," he said.
"It's also a chance to experience this wonderful city that we live in."
The Steeles will be completing the 10km City Ride, with the other routes on offer being the 18km River Ride, 50km Classic Ride and 105km Challenge Ride.
Cyclists of all experience levels can register at www.springcycle.com.au.
