Biking

With spring, the time for bicycling has come. Before the first ride, the bike should be checked out to see if it still is in good condition and safe.

To be safe and comfortable, the bicycle must be put into the right position corresponding to the person’s size and height. The height of the frame, the length of the pedals, the shape of the handle bars and saddle all have to be taken into consideration.

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To avoid becoming a security risk in traffic, good visibility and correct lights are extremely important.

German traffic regulations require properly installed lights consisting of a white front light, a dynamo, a red rear light, a white front and a red rear reflector as well as yellow front and rear wheel pedal reflectors.

The classical dynamo can be supported by battery-run lights – if the bicyclist has to stop at an intersection, the lights will still work and provide visibility. A warning bell and a dual brake system are also required.

Bicyclists must take care of their own safety by wearing a helmet, bright or light-colored clothes and protection for body parts which easily get injured. On military bases, helmets must be worn.

To avoid risky situations, it is very important to drive on bicycle paths if available. Riding on sidewalks is not permitted. Bicyclists must always ride on the right-hand side of the street.

***image2***The following traffic regulations must be obeyed:

• It’s forbidden to ride a bike the wrong way on a one-way street unless a specific sign located under the one-way street sign permits it. The sign has the symbol of a bike and says “frei” (free) or “Radfahrer frei” (free for bicyclists).

• When turning, hand signals must be used.

• Carriers are needed to transport packages or groceries.

• Only children 6 years old and younger are allowed to be carried as passengers in a child seat.

• Children up to 8 years old must ride on sidewalks.

To park the bike, cyclists should use a solid lock and chain the bike’s frame and the front and rear wheel if possible to a non-moving object, such as a bike rack or light pole.

German Polizei will fine bicyclists disobeying German traffic regulations or driving bikes with serious defects. Bicyclists riding intoxicated risk losing their driver’s license.