But cycling advocacy group Pedal Power is cautiously optimistic about Canberra's new tram.

"I think it provides opportunity, admittedly just on the north side, but it does provide opportunity," executive officer John Armstrong said.

Pedal Power wants to see a few features on the light rail designed to not only make cycling easier for Canberrans who ride at present, but encourage more people to hop onto bicycles.

Mr Armstrong said he wanted to see a convenient way for bikes to travel on the light rail, as well as secure lock-ups at all tram stations and easy access to stations for cyclists.

"Different people ride for different reasons," he said.

"Some people want to go from Gungahlin to the city so they can ride around the lake, so they need to be able to ride around the lake, or the parliamentary triangle where they can't park any more."

Mr Armstrong said early indications were good and the government had been listening, as several pro-cycling features were included in its call for tenders for the rail link.

Pedal Power spokesman Jeff Ibbotson said while a light rail would unfortunately mean less money spent on cycling facilities, the organisation would work with the government to ensure bike riders got the best out of the new train.

"Once the government's made that decision and it's immovable, there's no point in arguing with it," he said.

"It's going to happen so you've got to accept and then work with it ... you have to work with them and make the best you can."

Mr Armstrong said the government had been very attentive to their questions.

"I thought that they would come with a preconceived plan but it would appear as though they have listened," he said.

"I'll give them a hard time if they've done the wrong thing, but in this case they appear to have listened to the community."