Germany is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts! With its extensive network of cycle paths, environmentally friendly transport policies and widespread cycling culture, Germany is one of the leading countries in sustainable transport. Here, cycling is not only a means of transport, but also a way of life. Travelling by bicycle to work, school, shopping or just for pleasure is very common. And it is both environmentally friendly and good for your health – a win-win situation!
Germany is investing heavily in promoting cycling. Especially in big cities, bicycle-friendly policies are being implemented to relieve traffic and reduce air pollution. Municipalities are building new cycle lanes, creating bicycle parking areas and increasing bicycle hire services. In some places, there are even incentives for buying bicycles! So everything is ready for you to use a bicycle, you just need to step on the pedals. 🚴♂️💨
Bicycle Safety and Rules
In Germany, there are also training and awareness-raising programmes on bicycle safety and driving according to traffic rules. In particular, bicycle training for children and traffic safety seminars for adults are organised. This makes cyclists more aware of the traffic rules and keeps them safe. In many cities, there are also specially designed, traffic-free cycling tracks or traffic training areas for children to learn how to cycle safely.
🚲Compulsory equipment that must be on your bicycle in accordance with the German Road Traffic Licence Ordinance (StVZO):
- A bell (Yes, it is legally obligatory for you to ‘tinkle’! 😊)
- Front and rear brake (Safety is paramount!)
- Non-slip pedals (so that your feet do not slip on rainy days)
- Front and rear reflectors (for better visibility at night)
** These requirements may change or be updated over time, so it is important to obtain the most current information from official sources.
🚴♀️Kask Plug in:Not a legal requirement but highly recommended! A helmet can protect you from serious accidents. I say wear it if you like your head. 😉
🍻Alcohol Limit:It is forbidden to drink 1.6 promil or more alcohol while cycling! Even if you drink less, but you are out of balance, you may be penalised. Moreover, if you have a driving licence, you risk losing it too!
➡️Trafikte Drive on the right:In Germany, traffic flows on the right. Therefore, when cycling, you should use the right side of the road and be careful in case the doors of parked cars suddenly open.
👦Rules for children:Until the age of 8, children have to cycle on the pavement, and they are allowed to use the pavement until the age of 10.
🚦Attention to Traffic Lights:Cyclists must obey traffic lights. If there are special bicycle traffic lights, these lights should be observed first. In some cases, there may also be traffic lights for cyclists and pedestrians used together.
🚲Only one person may ride a bicycle:Small children can be transported on a bicycle using a child seat or a trailer attached to the rear of the bicycle.
📵Phone Use Prohibited:Talking on the phone or texting while cycling is prohibited. If you need to look at something, you need to stop and do it in a safe place.
👫No Riding Side by Side:If you are cycling in a group, you must ride in single file. It is forbidden to ride side by side to obstruct traffic!
🔦Use Lights for Night Riding:You must switch on your bicycle headlights at night, otherwise you may be fined and invite an accident!
🚘Holding on to vehicles:It is forbidden to hold on to surrounding vehicles while cycling, as it may jeopardise the safety of persons and other vehicles.
🚑 What to do in case of an accident? If you are involved in an accident, you should inform the authorities before leaving the scene. In case of an emergency, you can call 112 immediately. (Don’t worry about no credit, this number is free!)
Knowing and applying traffic rules, traffic signs, road markings and lanes while cycling ensures a safe riding experience. Safe driving is the responsibility of all of us and we can fulfil this responsibility by correctly applying traffic signs.
If you would like to find out more about cycling in Germany and the rules and regulations, you can check the websites of local cycling associations, official traffic regulations websites and municipal websites. Some cities also have special guides and brochures for cyclists.
Enjoy Germany on your bike and have a safe ride! 🚴♀️✨
This content is provided solely for general informational purposes and does not encompass all details. Maxi Digital GmbH disclaims any responsibility for ensuring the currency and accuracy of the content. It is recommended to refer to official sources for the most current and reliable information.
