Support us

Bike pathAustralia

Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Australia

6. Bike path

A bike path is a part of a road or a separate route intended primarily or exclusively for people riding bicycles. It may be physically separated from motor traffic, marked on the road surface or identified by traffic signs.

Bike paths may be one-way, two-way or shared with other road users. The permitted users, direction of travel, priority rules and obligation to use the path depend on local traffic signs and regulations.

Bike path
Path for pedestrians and cyclists. Cyclists have to give way to pedestrians. (Iron Cove Bridge, New South Wales, Australia)
Wikimedia.org • Andy Mitchell • CC BY-SA
How can you recognise a bike path?

A bike path may be identified by a bicycle traffic sign, bicycle symbols, coloured surfacing or road markings. It may run beside the carriageway or follow a completely separate route.

Is a bike path the same as a bike lane?

Not always. A bike lane is normally marked directly on or beside the carriageway, while a bike path may be physically separated from motor traffic. The terminology and legal distinction vary between countries.

Must cyclists use a bike path?

This depends on local law and the signs displayed. Some bike paths are mandatory, while others are optional. Cyclists may also be permitted to leave a path to turn, overtake or avoid an obstruction.

Can a bike path carry traffic in both directions?

Yes. Some bike paths are two-way, but others may be used only in the direction indicated by signs, markings or their position beside the road. Cyclists should not assume that every path permits travel in both directions.

May pedestrians use a bike path?

Pedestrians may use a bike path where it is designated as a shared-use path or where local law permits it. On a cycle-only path, pedestrians may be prohibited or permitted only when no suitable pedestrian facility is available.

May mopeds or speed pedelecs use a bike path?

This depends on the country, vehicle category, road speed and traffic signs. Some bike paths permit or require certain mopeds or speed pedelecs, while others are reserved exclusively for ordinary bicycles.

May motor vehicles use a bike path?

Normally not. Motor vehicles may cross a bike path to enter another road or property where this is permitted, but they must follow the applicable priority rules and must not endanger path users.

Who has priority where a vehicle crosses a bike path?

Priority depends on the road layout, signs, signals and local law. Drivers crossing a continuous bike path commonly have to give way to its users, but cyclists approaching a separate cycle crossing may not automatically have priority before entering it.

Does a cyclist always have priority at a cycle crossing?

No. A marked cycle crossing does not universally give an approaching cyclist priority. Cyclists should enter cautiously and observe approaching traffic unless signs, signals or local rules clearly give them priority.

Is there a speed limit on a bike path?

Some countries or local authorities impose specific limits, particularly on shared paths. Even without a posted limit, cyclists must travel at a safe and considerate speed for the width, visibility and number of other users.

May you stop or park on a bike path?

Normally not. Stopping or parking on a bike path can force cyclists into motor traffic and may be expressly prohibited by law.

What should cyclists do when passing pedestrians?

Reduce speed, give a clear warning where appropriate and leave sufficient space. Pedestrians may change direction unexpectedly, especially on a shared path.

What should cyclists do when a bike path is blocked?

Slow down and check surrounding traffic before leaving the path. Avoid the obstruction safely and return to the bike path when permitted and practical.

Can cyclists ride side by side on a bike path?

This depends on local law and the available width. Even where riding side by side is permitted, cyclists must not block, endanger or unnecessarily hinder other path users.

What is the difference between a bike path and a shared-use path?

A bike path is intended primarily or exclusively for cycling. A shared-use path is legally intended for cyclists together with pedestrians or other indicated road users, who must use the space considerately.

1 Australia 2 Motorway 3 Residential area 4 Speed limit 5 Advisory speed 6 Bike path 7 Pedestrian warning 8 Bridge 9 Speed bump 10 Toll road 11 One-way traffic 12 Slope 13 Bus stop 14 Stop sign 15 Give way 16 Roundabout 17 Pedestrian crossing 18 Railway crossing 19 Mandatory direction 20 Turn prohibition 21 School area 22 Crossing animals 23 Slippery road 24 Curve 25 Chevron 26 Wrong-way driving 27 Height limit 28 Radar speed sign 29 Selective barriers 30 Traffic lights 31 Traffic lights warning 32 Pedestrian lights 33 Road markings 34 Left-hand traffic 35 Driving licence 36 Location marker 37 Emergency telephone 38 No parking 39 No stopping 40 Disabled parking 41 Traffic management 42 Reversing 43 U-turn 44 Uncontrolled crossroad 45 Oversize load 46 Licence plate 47 Charging station 48 Local traffic 49 Moped 50 Truck 51 Bus 52 Police 53 Ambulance 54 Pothole 55 Path 56 Particulates 57 Air pollution 58 Rush hour 59 Road code 60 Two-way traffic 61 Street gutter 62 Cargo bike 63 Forestry vehicle 64 Construction vehicle 65 Semi-trailer truck 66 Trolleybus 67 Speed pedelec 68 Delivery vehicle 69 Idling 70 Tow truck 71 Four-wheel drive 72 Bicycle 73 Motorcycle equipment 74 Tram 75 Rail track 76 Caravan 77 Trailer 78 Tow hitch 79 Fire truck 80 Siren 81 Convoy 82 Emergency vehicle lighting 83 Agricultural machinery 84 Electric bicycle 85 Electric vehicle 86 Pedelec 87 Quadricycle 88 Microcar 89 All-terrain vehicle 90 Van 91 Recreational vehicle 92 Scooter 93 Trikke 94 Personal mobility device 95 Skateboard 96 Segway 97 Kick scooter 98 Roller skates 99 Mailman 100 Hitchhiker ...