The cycling holiday season is in full swing. This brings a lot of opportunities for wonderful adventures, but you also have to take into account the laws and regulations on the road. Five cycling rules that you really need to remember and that you will definitely want to check out again and again. Because, did you know that in Italy it is forbidden to ride with a monkey on your handlebars? No right? Us neither. Laws and regulations have a purpose. However, there are a few unusual and humorous cycling laws in the EU that can definitely put a smile on your face. Here are some of the funniest rules you can encounter in the European Union:
Read more about safety: Safe cycling: 6 tips to get home safely
Belgium – Obligatory
We like to joke about our southern neighbors quite a lot. Still, this is no joke, because road safety is quite important. In Belgium, cyclists are legally required to have a working bell on their bike. The little gem is of course there to make yourself visible, and you can certainly also create a beautiful symphony with it. Yet we do find it annoying when you go on a weekend trip without a bell on your bike. The Ardennes has to be paid for with a fine for not having a bell. Tip: this is the simplest but effective solution.
Italy – No monkey on the steering wheel
This one is perhaps the most bizarre. You are explicitly allowed to Italy no AAP Sitting on your steering wheel. Of course we know the now deceased Michele Scarponi who used to ride around with a parrot. Why this rule is so explicitly described remains a mystery. It must have something to do with the fact that she wanted to protect both humans and animals.
France – Mandatory reflection
In France, cyclists are required to wear reflective clothing when driving at night. Although the intention is to improve visibility and safety, the sight of cyclists pedaling around in bright, reflective clothing can be quite amusing. It will still force you to take a closer look at your surroundings. Reflective beanie To be purchased. If you’re ever in for a night ride.
Germany – Ban on “sinkin”” bicycles:
In some parts of Germany there is a funny law that prohibits cyclists from deliberately letting their bike disappear into the water. Although the law was originally intended to prevent people from throwing stolen bikes into the river or a lake, you can imagine that if you make an involuntary dive due to an accident, you can also file a police report afterwards.
Greece – No Sunday drivers
In Greece it is forbidden to ride a bicycle on busy roads on Sundays and public holidays. What remains unclear is the distinction between a busy and a quiet road. The intention is that this will lead to less congestion. But the bicycle actually fits in just about anywhere in between. With the problems that Athens has, it will certainly come from there. But still: cycling and Sunday are a golden combination for many people, so why is this happening again now?.
Funny or a cheap joke?
Although these laws may seem funny, they are still enforceable. No call in Belgium? You risk a fine. You'll only have a flat cap, which is covered in pressure.
Read also: First time cycling: what should you pay attention to?
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.