Mitsubishi 

Where does a cyclist have the right to ride? Which side of the road should a cyclist ride on?

I think each of us can confidently say that in Russia we drive on the right hand side. And to the question « Which side of the road should a bicycle ride on?(car/bus/motorcycle)?” everyone will answer: "On the right side of the road".

Moreover, schools now teach the basics of traffic rules for pedestrians and cyclists. And a cyclist who decides to enter the roadway is simply obliged to study the traffic rules that concern him before doing so. Fortunately, there are few of them.

And yet, every summer I encounter careless cyclists who ride along the edge of the right lane of the road in the opposite direction. Moreover, I usually encounter such irresponsible citizens, being on horseback myself.

What do they write in the traffic rules?

According to traffic regulations, in the absence of sidewalks and curbs, a pedestrian can move along the road in the opposite direction. But if you are riding a bicycle, then you are a vehicle and are obliged to move only in the same direction!

“ When driving along the edge of the roadway, pedestrians must walk towards the movement of vehicles. Persons moving in wheelchairs without a motor, driving a motorcycle, moped, or bicycle, in these cases must follow the direction of travel of the vehicles. „

It is worth paying attention to the persons driving the bicycle. According to traffic rules, they must drive the bike in the same direction. Although, I would leave this question open.

Why can't a cyclist ride in oncoming traffic?

  1. Speed ​​difference

    Let's say that in city mode the average cyclist travels at a maximum speed of 30 km/h, and the average car travels at 60 km/h. In oncoming traffic, their relative speed is 90 km/h, and in passing traffic – 30 km/h. The difference in relative speed is 3 times! Accordingly, there are also risks for the cyclist.

  2. The suddenness of the cyclist's maneuvers

    Imagine you are flying downhill on a bicycle along the right (and for you, left) edge of oncoming traffic. And at high speed, suddenly a stone/oil/puddle gets under your wheel, as a result of which you can fall or suddenly turn sideways. Result: you fly at full speed into an oncoming car rushing towards you. In the case of passing traffic, the chance that the driver will have time to dodge is much higher.

  3. Obstacle for other drivers:

    cyclists, drivers of mopeds and other low-speed vehicles. By moving against the grain, you interfere with other cyclists, slow-moving vehicles and cause negative attitude towards cycling enthusiasts from motorists. There are often situations when I am riding along the edge of the right lane in the same direction, there is a continuous stream of traffic on the left, a bump stop on the right, and a satisfied cyclist, sincerely confident that he is right, is riding against the grain. Honestly, I want to hit you in the forehead. To each.

Good afternoon, dear reader.

As soon as sufficiently warm weather sets in over central Russia, the number of two-wheeled vehicles increases significantly. Hundreds of bicycle and moped drivers appear on city streets and join the dense traffic flow.

According to my observations, at least 80 percent of the drivers of two-wheelers, for which a driver's license is not required, have absolutely no idea and take to the road completely unprepared.

Road rules for bicycles

Let's consider traffic rules for bicycles. A quick glance at the text may seem that traffic rules for cyclists are concentrated exclusively in section 24 of the rules "". However, in reality everything is completely different.

In the rules of the road, there are several types of road users, to which a specific clause of the rules may apply. Among others this motor vehicle, vehicle And driver. A bicycle without an engine is not a motor vehicle, but all points relating to drivers and vehicles also apply to cyclists.

Attention! Rules that apply to pedestrians do not apply to bicycle drivers. They apply only to persons driving a bicycle.

Thus Most traffic rules apply to cyclists, including a special 24 section. I will not analyze and explain absolutely everything for cyclists in this article. The interested reader can do this himself. I will focus only on those points of the rules that are most often violated by bicycle drivers.

Technical condition of the bike

2.3. The driver of the vehicle is obliged to:

2.3.1. Before leaving, check and ensure the good technical condition of the vehicle on the way in accordance with the Basic Provisions for the admission of vehicles to operation and the responsibilities of officials to ensure road safety (hereinafter referred to as the Basic Provisions).

Driving is prohibited if there is a malfunction service brake system, steering, a coupling device (as part of a road train), unlit (missing) headlights and rear marker lights in the dark or in conditions of poor visibility, a windshield wiper that does not operate on the driver’s side during rain or snowfall.

So, the rules of the road Bicycles are prohibited, which has Malfunctions of the service brake system or steering. And we’re not just talking about driving a bicycle with broken handlebars or broken brakes.

There are "passionate" cyclists who try to reduce the weight of their bike in every possible way. This includes removing brakes and other structural elements. Punishment for such a violation is provided for in the Code of Administrative Offenses and will be discussed at the end of the article.

Alcohol intoxication of a cyclist

Movement of cyclists over 14 years of age possible in descending order:

  1. Along bicycle paths, bicycle pedestrian paths, or lanes for cyclists.
  2. On the right edge of the roadway.
  3. On the side of the road.
  4. On the sidewalk or pedestrian path.

Please note that each subsequent item in the above list assumes that the previous items are missing.

For example, you can drive along the side of the road (point 3) only if there is no bicycle path or lane, and there is no possibility of driving along the right edge of the roadway.

In addition, there are a few exceptions:

  • You can ride on the roadway if the width of the bicycle or load exceeds 1 meter.
  • You can drive along the roadway if traffic is carried out in columns.
  • You can ride on a sidewalk or pedestrian path if you are accompanying a cyclist under 14 years of age or transporting a child under 7 years of age.

When driving on the roadway, you should keep in mind the following rules:

24.5. When cyclists move along the right edge of the roadway in the cases provided for by these Rules, cyclists must move only in one row.

A column of cyclists may move in two rows if the overall width of the bicycles does not exceed 0.75 m.

The column of cyclists must be divided into groups of 10 cyclists in the case of single-lane traffic, or into groups of 10 pairs in the case of double-lane traffic. To facilitate overtaking, the distance between groups should be 80 - 100 m.

Additional Information:

Movement of cyclists aged 7 to 14 years possible on sidewalks, pedestrian, bicycle and pedestrian paths, as well as within pedestrian zones.

Please note that “school cyclists” are not allowed to ride in bicycle lanes, the roadway or the shoulder.

Movement of cyclists under 7 years of age possible only together with pedestrians (on sidewalks, pedestrian and bicycle paths, pedestrian zones).

Thus, at present, cyclists can also travel on sidewalks and roadsides. In this case, the cyclist rules impose additional requirements:

24.6. If the movement of a cyclist on a sidewalk, pedestrian path, shoulder or within pedestrian zones endangers or interferes with the movement of other persons, the cyclist must dismount and follow the requirements provided for by these Rules for the movement of pedestrians.

I would like to note that when driving on sidewalks, pedestrian paths, roadsides and pedestrian zones, a cyclist must not interfere with the movement of other persons. If necessary, the cyclist must dismount and continue moving as a pedestrian.

Let's look at an interesting example. Let's say a car (in some cases this is allowed by the rules) and a cyclist are riding on the sidewalk. If a collision occurs, both road users will be to blame. If a cyclist walks along the sidewalk, then he will not be to blame for the accident (he will not pay for car repairs).

Therefore, paragraph 24.6 emphasizes that in the event Accident on the sidewalk one of its culprits will in any case be the cyclist.

Dedicated lanes for cyclists

In 2019, you will find dedicated lanes for cyclists on the roads, marked with special signs:

Only bicycles and mopeds are allowed on these lanes.

Dedicated lanes for public transport

In addition, in 2019, cyclists can also use dedicated lanes for public transport. Clause 18.2 of the Rules:

18.2. On roads with a lane for fixed-route vehicles, marked with signs 5.11.1, 5.13.1, 5.13.2, 5.14, the movement and stopping of other vehicles (except for school buses and vehicles used as passenger taxis, as well as cyclists) is prohibited - if the lane for route vehicles is located on the right) on this lane.

Please note that a cyclist may only enter a public transport lane if that lane is marked by one of the signs listed above. In addition, there should be no additional conditions prohibiting entry into the specified lane.

For example, in some Russian cities traffic is organized as follows. In fact, the road has a dedicated lane for route vehicles and all traffic participants understand this. However, from the point of view of traffic rules, the lane is not indicated by the signs listed above. Simply, at the entrance to it, a 3.1 “brick” sign is installed.

Only public transport drivers can ignore the requirements of this sign. Other vehicles, including cyclists, cannot pass under the “brick”.

Additional Information:

Bicycle zones

On December 14, 2018, the concept of “Bicycle zone” appeared in the traffic rules. The following road signs are used to indicate the cycling zone:

Not only cyclists, but also motorized vehicles (cars) can move through the bicycle zone. In this case, the following rules must be observed:

  • Cyclists have priority over cars.
  • Cyclists can ride on the entire opposite side of the roadway, and not just on the right edge.
  • Cyclists are not prohibited from turning left and making U-turns on wide roads.
  • The speed is limited to 20 km/h.
  • Pedestrians can cross the road anywhere, but they do not have the right of way.

More detailed information about cycling zones is provided in the following article:

Bicycle drivers must give way to pedestrians at crossings

14.1. The driver of a vehicle approaching an unregulated pedestrian crossing is obliged to give way to pedestrians crossing the road or entering the roadway (tram tracks) to cross.

A bicycle, like any other vehicle, must slow down or stop before crossing to allow pedestrians to pass.

Bicycle lights

In the dark, the headlights or lanterns must be turned on on the bicycle, and in the daytime, low beam headlights or daytime running lights:

19.1. In the dark and in conditions of insufficient visibility, regardless of the road lighting, as well as in tunnels, the following lighting devices must be turned on on a moving vehicle:

on all motor vehicles and mopeds - high or low beam headlights, on bicycles - headlights or lanterns, on horse-drawn carts - lanterns (if equipped);

19.5. During daylight hours, all moving vehicles must have low-beam headlights or daytime running lights on to indicate them.

So far, I have not met a single cyclist who uses low beam headlights or daytime running lights when driving during the day. In this regard, traffic police officers can impose a fine on almost any bicycle driver.

Age to ride a bicycle

Riding a bicycle is allowed at any age. However, depending on age, the rules for riding a bicycle differ (discussed above).

Driving on the carriageway is only possible when from 14 years old.

Prohibitions for bicycle drivers

24.8. Cyclists and moped drivers are prohibited from:

  • drive a bicycle or moped without holding the handlebars with at least one hand;
  • transport cargo that protrudes beyond the dimensions by more than 0.5 m in length or width, or cargo that interferes with control;
  • transport passengers if this is not provided for by the design of the vehicle;
  • transport children under 7 years of age in the absence of specially equipped places for them;
  • turn left or turn around on roads with tram traffic and on roads that have more than one lane for traffic in a given direction (except for cases where a left turn is allowed from the right lane, and with the exception of roads located in bicycle zones);
  • drive on the road without a fastened motorcycle helmet (for moped drivers);
  • cross the road at pedestrian crossings.

24.9. Towing of bicycles and mopeds, as well as towing with bicycles and mopeds, is prohibited, except for towing a trailer intended for use with a bicycle or moped.

From this list the following points should be noted:

1. Bicycle drivers are prohibited from turning left and turning around on roads that have more than one lane in a given direction. Those. In the city, cyclists are prohibited from turning left on almost all major streets.

Note. This requirement does not apply to bicycle zones, as well as to roads where left turns are permitted from the far right lane.

In practice, we can offer the following way out of this situation. The bicycle driver leaves his vehicle and becomes a pedestrian. Then he crosses the intersection in the required direction along the pedestrian crossing. After this, he gets back on the bike and continues moving along the roadway or side of the road.

So the fines for bicycle drivers currently cannot be compared with (30,000 rubles for driving while intoxicated). In addition, the advantage of cyclists on the road is that they are rarely fined for violating traffic rules. And this, in turn, leads to the fact that most “two-wheelers” behave unpredictably on the road, provoking the emergence of dangerous situations.

That's it for a look at the features finished. I remind you once again that every cyclist needs to read the full version at least once.

Well, in conclusion, I suggest you watch a short video that clearly demonstrates what a traffic violation can lead to for cyclists:

Good luck on the roads!

You cannot drive on the sidewalk if there is a roadway not occupied by parked cars.

You can drive on the sidewalk when transporting or accompanying a child. If you are traveling alone, you should drive on the roadway.

You can drive in the lane dedicated to public transport.

Only if there are no signs above the allocated lane prohibiting movement on it. For example, in our city there is an additional “No Entry” sign (brick) above the dedicated lanes, and in this case you cannot drive on such lanes.

Good luck on the roads!

Ivan, You are not right.

The Code of Administrative Offenses has its own definition of a vehicle, it is given in the note to.

Note. In this article, a vehicle should be understood as a motor vehicle with a displacement of an internal combustion engine of more than 50 cubic centimeters or a maximum electric motor power of more than 4 kilowatts and a maximum design speed of more than 50 kilometers per hour, as well as trailers for it, subject to state registration, and in others Articles of this chapter also include tractors, self-propelled road construction and other self-propelled machines, vehicles for which a special right is granted in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation on road safety.

In the Code of Administrative Offenses, bicycles are not considered vehicles.

Regarding the endings. Attach a diagram of the section of road you are interested in. Let's see how we can get there. Unfortunately, you can’t ride a bicycle everywhere and not always.

Good luck on the roads!

I repeat, it is clearly written "Please note that each subsequent item in the above list implies that the previous items are missing." There is NO choice.

And the tragedy is that I do not have the right, in PRINCIPLE, to move along the CORNER and ALL pedestrian zones.

Well, the argument “violate as you want as long as you don’t get fined” looks quite interesting on this forum))).

remember once and for all rule paragraph 1.5

and always move in such a way that it is carried out

by car on a bicycle with a tip

Let me give you just a few examples, and then you yourself, BUT ONLY with a QUOTE FROM the traffic rules, will try to refute them. How will I be run over in a few minutes.

Maxim may have already mentioned it, but I’ll just say this. As practice shows, even if this were a direct quote from the rules, then for some reason I am more than sure that at least half of the pedestrians would still proudly stand on it from a high bell tower. Because until now, a considerable number of pedestrians still have the habit of crossing the roadway in the wrong place, for example, although I myself sometimes do this. Well, or turn to red (I don’t go to red myself, except if I see that there is not a single car/motorcycle within a radius of 100 meters). But for the sake of truth, I will also say that I and most of those who do it began to at least look around more carefully before immediately diving so that at that moment there would be a safe window for everyone to cross. Therefore, whether this quote exists or not, it is unlikely that it would radically change anything.

Torturestroke, there is no federal law prohibiting bicycle storage in an apartment. I have also never heard of regional laws of this kind.

Only if in your building the apartment owners at a general meeting decided that storing bicycles in a residential building is prohibited and, for example, allocated a separate non-residential premises for this. Although this is an extremely rare case.

Good luck on the roads!

And if someone else gets caught, he’ll knock you down and give you a fine. So save up some cash.

I’ll tell you more, even when riding on the sidewalk, if a cyclist gets into an accident with a car leaving (into) the yard, the fault will be either mutual or on the cyclist - violation of clause 24.6 (depends on the speed of the bicycle, visibility, etc. - the court decides) ,there were precedents.

Conclusion, as was written earlier, it is necessary to drive EVERYWHERE in compliance with clause 1.5 “Road users must act in such a way as not to create a danger to traffic and not cause harm...”

And in particular, when crossing the road at a reasonable speed next to a pedestrian crossing, I must make sure whether there is cover for pedestrians and whether the turning car allows me to pass or not.

And it is also desirable that there are no complaints from traffic police inspectors and vigilant citizens that I am violating traffic rules.

p.s. An exercise for those who like “not riding but fidgeting”, while sitting at the computer on a saddle chair you don’t just sit, but periodically, about once every 2 minutes, get up and do a circle around the room (in 2 minutes a cyclist when riding on the sidewalk at a speed of 10 km/h travels 330 meters - the approximate distance between intersections).

This procedure will be especially useful for legislators coming up with laws for cyclists.

p.p.s. Previously, it was possible to ride a bicycle on a pedestrian crossing, now it’s the other extreme - it’s impossible, but all that was necessary was to limit the speed for ALL road users, including. and for scooters and “roller skates”, by the way, a pedestrian walking by race walking can WALK at a speed of 16 km/h.

5.4.29. Signs 3.2 - 3.9, 3.32 and 3.33 are installed at each entrance to a section of road or territory where the movement of the corresponding types of vehicles is prohibited. Before side exits onto the road, signs are used with one of the plates 8.3.1 - 8.3.3.

There is no additional information on this sign in the regulatory documents.

If you adhere to the general principles of installing prohibitory signs, then they prohibit movement to your left. That is, if there is a sidewalk to the right of the sign, then you can drive on it.

Difficulty may arise if the sidewalk is adjacent to the roadway and the pillars are installed to the right of the sidewalk. In this case, the sign is located to the right of the entire road and an incomprehensible situation arises. If you are faced with a similar situation in practice, then it makes sense to write an appeal to the traffic police with a request to clarify the traffic order or change the traffic pattern on this section of the road.

Good luck on the roads!

Alexey-464

A cyclist is prohibited from turning left or turning around on roads with tram traffic and on roads that have more than one lane for traffic in a given direction.

Your comment says that you can't turn left almost anywhere. Why? This direction is a left turn or a U-turn. If the roadway has 3 lanes in each direction, and turning left (and turning, if not prohibited) is only allowed from the left lane, where does it say that you cannot turn from the third lane? There is only one lane in this direction. Either the rules are written crookedly, or those who read them do not understand what is written. Please read carefully. For those turning left, the direction straight or right is not a given. It is completely absent for him; he does not go there.

Where does it say that you can’t turn from the third lane?

Clause 24.2 prohibits driving away from the right edge of the driveway if the movement is on the roadway.

This direction is a left turn or a U-turn.

No, such a direction in the traffic rules is called the “intended direction of movement” (see “driving through intersections”: “leave in the intended direction”). “Lane of a given direction” refers to all lanes for forward traffic, no matter forward-left, forward-straight or forward-right. The “lanes of a given direction” are not only the “lanes of the opposite direction” and the dividing strip, but at intersections there are also crossing ones.

Dmitry-484

Barkhudarov, you are right - traffic rules for cyclists were written by people who not only do not ride bicycles, but apparently hate cyclists. First of all, everything is done for motorists, because the strongest and richest are first and foremost motorists. There are already rumors that licenses for cyclists will be introduced. Instead of reining in the most insolent motorists, who not only massively violate rights, but in some cases deliberately try to set up a cyclist - they cut off and do not turn on the right turn signal.

Hello! To be honest, I didn’t find anything about dismounting at a controlled intersection, which was written about a couple of posts ago. But I wanted to ask about something else.

1. Does the requirement of clause 24.2 to move on the right mean that it is mandatory to move to the right if the signs/markings from the right lane only allow right? Judging by the context of clauses 24.8 and 8.5, probably not. After all, 24.8 does not prohibit turning left on single-lane roads, but 8.5 requires you to take the extreme position, not the lane, but precisely the position. That is, it is allowed to leave from the right edge if necessary, and therefore change into a lane from which you can go straight, if from the right only to the right.

2. Clause 24.2 allows movement on the side of the road only if it is impossible to move along the right edge of the FC, although for mopeds and horse-drawn vehicles the old wording “driving on the side of the road is allowed if this does not interfere with pedestrians.” It would not be better to keep something similar in paragraph 24.2,

2. It is better to send such proposals directly to the Government of the Russian Federation, because It is the employees of this department who are responsible for drawing up the text of traffic regulations.

3. Interesting question. Paragraph 24.11 talks about the priority of cyclists over mechanical vehicles. This paragraph says nothing about priority at intersections. Therefore, it turns out to be unclear what exactly drivers and cyclists should be guided by at intersections (section 13 or clause 24.11).

Good luck on the roads!

Comment is being added

On November 29, new traffic rules came into force - among them, for example, the following: it is forbidden to cross the roadway along a zebra crossing on a bicycle. For violation there is a significant fine. We remembered what other rules cyclists must follow and what they need to feel comfortable in traffic.

Rule #1

On the road, a bicycle is just like a car. Cyclists are subject to most of the rules that apply to regular road users. That is: drive only when the light is green, do not overtake on the right, give way to pedestrians, and so on. The only thing is that you need to stick to the right edge of the road.

Rule #2

Cyclists even have a little more restrictions: the traffic rules have another special section 24: “Additional requirements for the movement of cyclists and moped drivers.” The main thing in it is that those who like to move on two wheels can only ride on the roadway from the age of 14.

Rule #3

In most cases, the cyclist must ride on the roadway or on the shoulder, if there is one, which is not a very common situation in the city. But if there is a bicycle path along the street, the cyclist is obliged to move onto it. However, there are conditions: if a bicycle has a trailer more than a meter wide, it cannot use the bike path - so as not to disturb other cyclists. In any case, you can move on sidewalks only in exceptional cases (see rule No. 5).

Rule #4

If the bicycle does not have a special trailer for passengers and if it is not a tandem, carrying passengers on it is strictly prohibited. Sitting a friend on the trunk, and even more so on the steering wheel, is a traffic violation.

Rule #5

As for pedestrian paths and sidewalks, a cyclist can move along them only in three cases. The first is if for some reason it is impossible to enter the roadway. The second is for those who accompany young (under 7 years old) cyclists or have come up with a way to carry the same child as a passenger (that is, in an additional seat or trailer). And the third, in fact, is for those who are already 7 years old, but according to the law, driving on the road is still prohibited (see rule No. 2).

Rule #6

In the dark, a motorist may not notice a cyclist, so it is imperative to equip the bicycle with lights or reflectors (just like cars: white in front, red in back), as well as reflective parts on the wheels on both sides. Having a bell on the steering wheel is also a prerequisite.

Rule #7

It is prohibited to drive a bicycle or moped without holding the handlebars with at least one hand. The same applies to talking on the phone, as well as driving while intoxicated (letting a drunk friend ride is also prohibited). Violators receive a fine from 1000 to 1500 rubles.

Rule #8

If cyclists are gathered in a group and move in a column, then they can only ride on the roadway along with cars. A column is when there are no more than 10 people in one row. If the race is attended by owners of bicycles with a total size of the bicycle and cyclist or load no wider than 0.75 meters, it is allowed to ride in two rows - that is, in a group of 20 people. If there are more participants in the race, groups will have to keep a distance of 80–100 meters from each other.

Rule #9

Be predictable. There is a standard system of bicycle signals around the world to inform other road users of your intention to turn or change lanes. An outstretched arm to the right is a turn to the right, similar to the left hand. And before you stop, you need to raise either hand high up.

Rule #10

The rule to keep to the right edge of the road makes left turns at intersections more difficult - unless the roadway has no more than two lanes in all directions, in which case it is possible to turn left, but you still need to be careful. The law encourages people to get off their bike and walk across pedestrian crossings. At T-junctions, you will have to wait for the moment when you are sure you will not interfere with other vehicles.

Rule #11

It would be good for a cyclist to have with him a minimum set of tools that will allow him to fix the bike in case of a breakdown: a wrench or a set of hexagons (depending on the model of the bike), as well as a repair kit that will help, in case of anything, to seal the punctured tube and put the tire on the wheel. This rule is not written down in the traffic rules, but if you adhere to it, you can get out of a very unpleasant situation.

Rule #12

Be careful. No matter how much the cycling culture spreads and takes root, not all motorists are accustomed to sharing the road with two-wheeled vehicles, and you never know what happens. Stray dogs, slow pigeons, careless pedestrians crossing the road in the wrong place - a cyclist should not forget about all this for a second.

Cyclists are full road users from the point of view that they have their own rights (and responsibilities) that give them the use of roads and sidewalks in certain cases. However, traffic rules are often a rather ambiguous legal act, sometimes contradictory. Therefore, let's look at traffic rules and fines for cyclists from a practical (law enforcement) point of view in a question and answer format!

Is a bicycle a vehicle?

Yes. By the very definition of a bicycle, it is a vehicle. But it should not be confused with mechanical vehicles. The latter is driven by an engine.

But it's not that simple. And the bicycle can also move due to the motor. But in order for it not to fall under the definition of mechanical vehicles, but to remain in the proud title of “Bicycle”, the engine on it, according to the 2019 traffic regulations, must meet 3 criteria:

  1. it should only be an electric motor,
  2. its power should be no more than 0.25 kW (~0.34 hp),
  3. He must automatically switch off at speeds of 25 km/h or more.

A cyclist is also a driver. This status is given to him by the definition of a driver - any person driving a vehicle.

Where can you ride?

This is a rather complex and conditional subtlety. The fact is that according to the Rules, as many as 7 different formal traffic zones are allowed for cyclists, depending on age and the organization of traffic in a given area.

Therefore, first we suggest that you find out where you can travel specifically in your case by interactively answering a few simple questions.

Where can I ride? Quick test

What is your age?

Under 7 years old? From 7 to 14 years old? Over 14 years old?

Are you transporting a child under 7 years old or accompanying a child under 14 years old?

Not really

Is there a bicycle path, a bicycle pedestrian path or a lane for cyclists on this section of the road and is it possible to travel on them?

Not really

Is there a roadway on this section of the road where you can ride on the right side? Are you riding outside a bicycle column, and the width of your bicycle is no more than 1 meter?

Yes, all conditions are metAt least 1 condition is not met

Is there a shoulder on this section of the road and is it possible to drive on it?

Not really

You can ride on bike paths, sidewalks, or pedestrian zones of your choice.

Go through again

You can ride on bicycle paths, bicycle pedestrian paths, sidewalks, pedestrian paths, or pedestrian zones of your choice.

Go through again

You can only drive on sidewalks and pedestrian areas.

Go through again

You must use a bicycle path, bicycle pedestrian path, or bicycle lane.

Go through again

You must drive on the right edge of the roadway. At the same time, you cannot turn left and turn around if there is more than one lane in your direction or there are tram tracks.

Go through again

You are obliged to move along the side of the road without interfering with pedestrians and dismounting when creating such interference or danger to the movement of pedestrians.

Go through again

You can ride on sidewalks or in a pedestrian area without interfering with pedestrians and dismounting if you create such an obstacle or endanger the movement of pedestrians.

Go through again

Let's now look at where you can ride a bike depending on your age.

Over 14 years old

  • On bicycle paths and bicycle pedestrian paths or a lane for cyclists of your choice in any cases, if any,
  • on the right side of the road:
    • if the above zones do not exist or for one or another (objective) reasons it is impossible to travel through them,
    • if the width of your bicycle is more than 1 m (including with cargo),
    • if you are riding in a bicycle convoy,
  • on the side of the road, if there are no special paths or lanes for cyclists, and it is impossible or impossible to drive along the right edge of the roadway (note that the side of the road is not a roadway); at the same time, you must not interfere with pedestrians (they have priority on the side of the road),
  • on the sidewalk or pedestrian area, if all of the above is absent or there is no possibility to drive on them - that is, in fact, this paragraph allows you to drive through pedestrian parks, alleys, etc.; or if you are transporting a child under 7 years old or riding with a cyclist under 14 years old (clause 24.2 of the Rules).

The lane for cyclists is separated from the rest of the road by a solid line and is marked as follows:

And/or with a sign like this:

From 7 to 14 years

  • Along the bike paths
  • along bicycle and pedestrian paths,
  • on the sidewalk,
  • along the pedestrian path,
  • along the pedestrian zone.

Any of the above is your choice.

Under 7 years old

  • Along bicycle and pedestrian paths,
  • on the sidewalk,
  • along the pedestrian zone.

Any of the above.

Where should I dismount?

There are a number of areas where you are required to dismount, but they are few:

  • while crossing a pedestrian crossing, if you expect that drivers will be obliged to give way to you (they are obliged to give way only to pedestrians (clause 24.8 of the traffic rules), and in the event of an accident the blame will fall on you),
  • in pedestrian areas (in parks), on pedestrian paths, sidewalks or the side of the road, unless you interfere with pedestrians or they are in danger (clause 24.6 of the traffic rules).

How far away should car drivers stay from me?

On safe. Alas, clear boundaries of the 2019 traffic rules are not regulated either with respect to the lateral interval or with respect to the distance.

Previously, there was an attempt to develop a new law to introduce a clause into the Rules that would oblige drivers to maintain a lateral distance of 1 meter from a cyclist, but it was not adopted.

Today, the safety of the distance and interval is precedented - that is, until an accident occurs, the distances are considered safe.

Is it possible to drive in a bus lane?

You can. The very description of road sign 5.11 allows cyclists to move on it:

But you yourself are not obligated to submit practically anything for verification. Alas, this is true (and this is a big minus). Licenses and other typical automobile documents must be submitted for verification only to drivers of mechanical vehicles (clause 2.1.1 of the traffic rules). But the inspector can check the civil passport of a cyclist as a citizen, and only if the first one commits a traffic violation or to attract him as a witness or witness (clause 107 of the Administrative Regulations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs).

By the way, the reasons for stopping and checking documents are the same as for motorists.

An employee wants to check the bicycle frame number - is he entitled?

It has. These are direct responsibilities assigned to the inspector. He can check the numbers (clause 107 of the regulations) as part of orientations and special events, for which he is not obliged to present the relevant documents to you (but should not interfere with the opportunity to familiarize yourself with them - they can be at the traffic police post, in the unit, or even be oral) - however, everything is the same as for motorists.

What is prohibited for cyclists under traffic rules?

So, in addition to prohibited sections of the road for driving under certain conditions, in general cases cyclists are also prohibited from:


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Everyone who gets behind the wheel of a bicycle becomes a participant in traffic. Therefore, the requirements for it are as strict as for car drivers and motorcycle drivers.

To ensure the safety of themselves and others, drivers of these vehicles must follow the rules.

The number of wheeled mobile vehicles that are driven by human muscle power is growing year by year. They are bought in specialized stores and rented: they go to work, take children to kindergarten, go for walks and shopping trips, and simply use them to maintain health.

Therefore, to avoid confusion on the roads, cyclists must follow the rules.

In European countries, this type of transport is perhaps the most popular. Denmark, Germany, Holland, Belgium are the leaders in their hobby. There is a developed network of bicycle paths and special traffic lights are installed, which confirms people’s attention to mobile vehicles. In Denmark, for example, a car is now considered a luxury, and the bicycle has occupied a significant niche among means of transportation. This is explained by the introduction of a high tax on car purchases, which exceeds the cost of the car itself. Added to this was the introduction of parking fees. So this means of transportation has gained popularity, which is used to travel to places that cannot be reached on foot or by car; it is allowed to enter the center of large cities. Riding such a vehicle is also good for your health.

The advantages this vehicle provides:

  • price – it is much lower than other types of transport;
  • there is no need to buy gasoline, the prices of which are quite high;
  • small dimensions;
  • there are no problems associated with traffic jams on city roads during rush hours;
  • speed. It is lower in comparison with motorcycles and cars, however, thanks to mobility, it is faster to get to the right time by bicycle;
  • pedaling turns out to be a kind of plus: it helps to pump up the leg muscles;
  • staying in the fresh air (where there are no exhaust gases) turns out to be another plus for health;
  • Riding focuses attention and helps a person concentrate.

The list of main advantages turned out to be rather long.

But we can’t ignore the shortcomings:

  • storage problem;
  • insufficient number of parking lots in cities and equipped paths;
  • seasonality, i.e. in rainy weather and winter, this transport is ineffective.

China dominates among the main manufacturers - a huge number of factories for the assembly and production of cheap and mobile transport are concentrated there. But don’t rush to criticize the manufacturer - a lot of good words have been said about its products, despite the fact that in comparison with famous European manufacturers, mobile transport costs much less.

The fact that there are up to a billion people in the world who like to ride “with the breeze” testifies to many things, and that people are thinking about the environment and thus are fighting air pollution.

Negative consequences of car popularity

  • pollute air;
  • require significant financial investments, including for routine and planned repairs;
  • make a lot of noise;
  • spending a long time behind the wheel causes the development of certain diseases;
  • low mobility of the driver leads to the same problems.

These problems are not familiar to those who have chosen mobile transport. If it continues to be popularized, it will become the transport of the future, especially considering how quickly production is developing, how many new models and gadgets have been developed for it.

Excerpts from Chapter 6 of the Rules for Cyclists

The chapter spells out the rules that must be strictly observed when driving outside your own home, when the person sitting behind the wheel turns into a full-fledged participant in the road traffic.

What are the rules for cyclists?

The traffic rules (Chapter 6 “Requirements for drivers of mopeds and bicycles”) clearly regulate the behavior of cyclists who have left their home and find themselves on the roads.

Let's look at the basic rules outlined in this chapter:

6.1 Citizens who have reached the age of fourteen are allowed to ride bicycles on the roadway.

Children over 14 years of age, in accordance with the rules, can ride alone on the roads. Younger children are allowed to move only on sidewalks. And those under 7 years old can only ride under adult supervision.

6.2. The mobile transport in question must be equipped with light reflectors– this is another rule for a cyclist. The color of the reflector installed in front is white, the reflector mounted at the back is red, and the reflector on the sides is orange. The rules require that in addition to reflectors, there must be an audible signal.

6.3. If driving in conditions of limited visibility, in particular at night, the rules require the use of lights installed in front and behind, which will help identify the vehicle on the roadway.

6.4. The next rule: in order not to interfere with traffic participants when moving in a group, you need to drive in a chain, i.e. one after another. If a column is moving, the cyclists are divided into groups of 10 people each and move, keeping a distance of 80-100 meters between groups. According to the rules, the distance between the “drivers” themselves is maintained at least 1.5 meters. Compliance with this rule will help drivers of other vehicles move freely, avoiding traffic jams.

6.5. It is allowed to carry loads of such dimensions that do not interfere with the control of the bicycle. The rules allow the transportation of cargo on a trunk or a special trailer, but do not provide for the transportation of oversized cargo.

  • drive a vehicle that has a faulty signal, brakes, no lighting (in the dark), or in poor visibility;
  • You cannot drive on the roadway if there is a bike path nearby;
  • move on paths for pedestrians (except for children’s bicycles);
  • hold on to another vehicle when driving;
  • drive without holding the steering wheel or taking your feet off the pedals;
  • It is allowed to transport adults (children under 7 years old) on an additional seat, provided that
  • that the seat is equipped with footrests);
  • The rules for cyclists do not allow towing bicycles, mopeds, trailers (except as specified above).

Rules: where the vehicle is allowed to go

You are required to drive on the roadway (according to the rules) as close to the right shoulder as possible. This rule is often hindered by parked cars that need to be passed around, which is very risky from the point of view of the traffic moving behind and from the driver of the parked car, who can open the door in front of the cyclist without noticing his approach.

If a breakdown occurs during a trip, an injury occurs, or a person is simply tired and wants to walk, he turns into a pedestrian, even while walking with a vehicle. Now he must move according to the rules along the edge of the left shoulder - towards moving traffic, so that in case of danger, he can quickly react.

How is a bike lane designated according to the rules?

If there is a bike path, you only need to move along it.

Its presence is indicated by a road sign provided for by the rules:

If there is no sign, markings are applied to the bike path indicating the direction of movement (as stated by the rules).

If it is, then the rules prohibit cyclists from riding on the roadway. There are still few paths in our country, so cyclists travel along the same lines as trucks and cars, so the issue of personal safety is extremely relevant.

What is important to know to protect yourself on the roads

  • Riding on the roads is dangerous because cyclists may not be seen at night. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to wear brighter cycling clothing and equip your vehicle with reflective elements, as required by the rules for cyclists, section 6.2. The taillight must be turned on in accordance with paragraph 6.3 of the rules for cyclists. A bicycle light powered by a rechargeable battery or batteries is attached to the handlebars.
  • A front light will help you spot vehicles from afar and illuminate the way.
  • Often headlights have different functions: continuous glow, blinking.
  • In order not to risk turning back, equip your mobile vehicle with a rear-view mirror, attaching it to the steering wheel. This simple accessory will help you focus your attention on the road.
  • Another point of the rules aimed at preserving the health of the cyclist is the mandatory wearing of a helmet, which will protect the head in case of a fall, from which even an experienced driver is not insured. After all, circumstances do not always depend on his experience and skills.

Does a cyclist need a license?

Until now, this has not been required, but the State Duma has already raised this issue, to which the owners of the “iron horses” reacted ambiguously. Most responded negatively to this decision. But the measures were caused by a global violation of the rules, unwillingness to equip your vehicle accordingly, and neglect of safety rules - wearing reflective clothing and a helmet.

The license will help improve the culture of these drivers, as well as apply fines to them for violations. But they are not the only ones to blame for road accidents, so it would be advisable to start installing bicycle paths, about which there is no news yet.

When the law is adopted, it will be possible to move only with a certificate similar to a motorist’s license. But given the increased interest in bicycles, the introduction of compulsory training for obtaining a license may cause the demand for bicycles to fall.

The rules for cyclists include gestures that help determine what maneuver they will perform.

Hands act as car headlights:

  • when it is lifted to the right, there will be a right turn;
  • by raising his hand up, the driver will continue to move in a straight line;
  • Do not turn left - it is prohibited.

What to do if you can’t turn left. In this case, they drive to the nearest underground or overground passage and cross the road, dismounting. If you find it difficult to make signs with your hands, purchase an electronic system that indicates turns. Inform your colleagues on the roads about upcoming maneuvers in advance so that they can get their bearings in time.

Video: A cyclist stands in a traffic jam