The cycling holiday season is in full swing. With that comes a host of opportunities for wonderful adventures, yet you will also need to be mindful of the laws and rules on the road. Five cycling rules that you really need to remember and that will make you scratch behind your ears. Because, did you know that in Italy it is forbidden to ride with a monkey on your handlebars? Didn't we? Neither did we. Laws and regulations have a function. Yet there are some unusual and humorous cycling laws in the EU that are sure to put a smile on your face. Here are some of the funniest rules you might come across in the European Union:
read more about safety: Cycling safely: 6 tips to get home safely
Belgium - Duty to call
We love to joke about our southern neighbours. Yet this is no joke, because road safety is quite important. In Belgium, cyclists are required by law to have a working bell on their bikes. Of course, the little gem serves to make yourself known and you can surely make a nice symphony with it. Still, it does seem annoying to us when you spend a weekend Ardennes must pay a fine for not having a bell. Tip: this is the simplest but most effective solution.
Italy - No monkey on the wheel
This one is perhaps the most bizarre. You may be explicitly in Italy no AAP have on your handlebars. We are of course familiar with the now-deceased Michele Scarponi who did ride around with a parrot. Why this rule is described so explicitly remains a mystery. I suppose it has to do with the fact that they like to protect both humans and animals.
France - Mandatory reflection
In France, cyclists are required to wear reflective clothing when riding at night. Although the intention is to improve visibility and safety, the sight of cyclists pedalling around in bright, reflective clothing can be quite amusing. Still, it will force you to take a reflective jacket purchase. If you're ever in for a night ride.
Germany - Ban on 'sinking' bikes:
In some parts of Germany, there is a funny law prohibiting cyclists from deliberately throwing their bikes 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 should you take an involuntary plunge because of a fall, you may also be ticketed afterwards.
Greece - No Sunday riders
In Greece, it is forbidden to ride around on busy roads on Sundays and public holidays by bicycle. What now separates a busy from a quiet road remains unclear. After all, it is supposed to ensure less congestion. But the bicycle actually fits in between everything. With Athens' problems, I'm sure it will come from there. Still: cycling and Sunday are a golden combo for many, so why this again.
Funny or an expensive joke?
While these laws may seem funny, they are still enforceable. No call in Belgium? You risk a fine. You'll just have a flat cap busy with it.
Read also: First time cycling: what to look out for?
