Know the Road: Rules for Cyclists

Know the Road: Rules for Cyclists

As a cyclist there are many things to remember to ensure that you are following the road rules safely. If you are unsure of the road rules and cycle regularly it can be unsafe for you and fellow cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians. Not only this, but if you are caught disobeying road rules by police you are liable to receive a hefty fine, police are enforcing road rules for cyclist at a greater level after several accidents occurred over a couple of year period.

We here at Bicycle Superstore have compiled a list of highly important rules for cycling to ensure that you can enjoy the road safely and with greater understanding.

  1. Helmets – This is a given for cyclists in Australia: it is illegal to ride a bike without a proper, well-fitting helmet. This applies to all cyclists, young and old, and is imperative for the safety of a cyclist during a ride. Riding without a proper helmet, fitted and fastened, is incredibly dangerous and leaves you liable to a heavy fine from police if caught.
  2. Respect the lanes – If there is a designated bike lane on a particular road, this is where you should be riding, as there a lot of restrictions placed on motorists for driving in these lanes. You can only ride on the footpath if you are under the age of 12 or accompanying a minor whilst riding. It is always advised that you stick to the designated lanes whilst riding.
  3. Riding with other cyclists – You can ride alongside another cyclist given that you are not riding on a single-lane road and that they are no more than 1.5m apart from one another. This is important as you should allow motorists to pass with sufficient ease.
  4. Stick to the bicycle boxes – For their safety, cyclists have to stop in the designated bicycle boxes before the second line. These boxes are designated for cyclists only when stationary, and motorists are not allowed to enter the box until the light has gone green.

This is a selection of some of the most important road rules to abide by. Sticking to the rules allows for a safe and enjoyable cycle, not abiding by them is dangerous and makes you accountable to fines and a stern talking to from the police. Stick to the rules and enjoy your cycle.