Whether you’re zipping to work or enjoying a leisurely weekend ride, the bicycle remains a wildly popular way to get around. But navigating local traffic laws on two wheels can feel like a minefield. From hands-free riding to cycling side-by-side, and whether you *have* to use a bike path when one exists, let’s break down the essential rules of the road for cyclists.
World Bicycle Day is celebrated on June 3rd, but the regulations outlined in the Road Traffic Act (StVO) apply every single day. Are you confident you know them all?
Speed Limits Apply to Bikes Too
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You probably aren’t hitting 180 kilometers per hour on a bicycle, but some cyclists can easily reach 40 kilometers per hour. And exceeding speed limits in a 30-kilometer zone—even on a bike—can result in a fine. Speed limits posted on traffic signs apply to cyclists just as they do to motorists.
However, it’s important to note that general speed limits for motor vehicles, such as the 50 kilometers per hour limit in built-up areas, do not apply to bicycles. This is because bicycles are not classified as motor vehicles.
Cycling Side-by-Side: Is It Legal?
Picture this: two friends riding along, chatting comfortably. It seems like it could be a traffic violation, but it’s actually permitted. The StVO only stipulates that riding side-by-side must not impede traffic flow. If overtaking cyclists riding abreast is impossible due to road width, they should ride single file to allow for passing.
When overtaking cyclists, both motorists and cyclists should exercise caution.
Street or Bike Path: Which Should You Choose?
A frustrated driver might complain if a cyclist uses the road despite a designated bike path. Generally, bicycles are permitted on the street. However, cyclists are required to use a bike path if it’s marked with one of the three standard blue cycle path signs.
If a bike path is impassable—due to damage or obstructions—cyclists are allowed to use the road instead.
If You Love Your Bike, You Push It?
Quickly rolling across a zebra crossing on your bike? You can, but proceed with caution. Cyclists don’t have priority in this situation. Priority is only granted if you dismount and walk your bike across the crossing—or treat it like a scooter, according to some court decisions.
Hands-Free Cycling: A Definite No-No
Cycling hands-free is strictly prohibited. Riding one-handed is permissible, provided you maintain control of the bike. Removing your feet from the pedals is only allowed “if road conditions require it,” and of course, when stopped.
Traveling on Two Wheels with Children
Bike trailers are a convenient way to transport children, but there are rules. The StVO limits trailers to a maximum of two children “up to the age of seven.”
Can a 14-year-old sister ride the bike? No. The minimum age for riding a bike with a child in a trailer or child seat is 16 years.
Walking the Dog While Cycling?
If your dog needs a good workout, you can cycle alongside them. The StVO explicitly allows this, but with the caveat that “only dogs” are permitted to accompany cyclists in this manner. Cycling with other pets is officially prohibited.
