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Cycling routeNetherlands

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

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Netherlands

34. Cycling route

A cycling route is a planned or signposted route intended to guide cyclists between places or through a particular area. It may follow cycle paths, quiet streets, shared roads, greenways or other routes considered suitable for cycling.

A cycling route does not necessarily give cyclists exclusive use of the road or path and should not be confused with a cycle path or cycle lane. The traffic rules, priority rules and permitted road users depend on the individual roads and paths that form the route and on the local signs and regulations.

Signpost with information and directions of the cycling route. (Gelderland, Netherlands)
Wikimedia.org • Fantaglobe11 • CC BY-SA
How can you recognise a cycling route?

Cycling routes are commonly indicated by direction signs, bicycle symbols, route numbers, colours or destination markers. The design of the signs and route-numbering system varies between countries and regions.

Do cyclists have to follow a cycling route?

Usually not. A cycling-route sign normally provides direction or route guidance rather than imposing a mandatory direction. However, separate mandatory traffic signs may require cyclists to use a particular cycle path or direction.

Is a cycling route the same as a cycle path?

No. A cycle path is a specific part of a road or separate path intended for cyclists under local traffic rules. A cycling route is an entire itinerary and may include cycle paths, ordinary roads, cycle streets and other types of infrastructure.

Are cycling routes reserved for cyclists?

Not necessarily. Many cycling routes use roads and paths that are also open to motor vehicles, pedestrians or other road users. Access is determined by the signs and rules applying to each individual section.

Do cyclists have priority on a cycling route?

Not automatically. Being on a designated cycling route does not normally change the priority rules. Cyclists must continue to obey traffic lights, give-way and stop signs, crossing rules and other applicable traffic regulations.

Does a cycling route always have cycle paths?

No. A route may combine dedicated cycle infrastructure with quiet streets, shared roads, rural roads and other suitable connections. The quality and level of separation from motor traffic can therefore change along the route.

Can a cycling route cross busy roads?

Yes. A cycling route may cross or temporarily follow busy roads. At such locations, cyclists must follow the crossing, priority and traffic-light rules indicated by local signs and markings.

Can other vehicles use roads forming part of a cycling route?

Yes, unless access is restricted by separate traffic signs or regulations. A cycling-route designation by itself does not normally prohibit cars, motorcycles or other vehicles from using an otherwise public road.

Can cycling routes be recreational or long-distance routes?

Yes. Cycling routes may be designed for daily travel, tourism or recreation. Some form part of regional, national or international networks and may be identified by route names or numbers.

What should you do when a cycling-route sign conflicts with a traffic sign?

Always follow the official traffic signs, signals and road markings. A route marker provides navigation and does not override a prohibition, mandatory direction, road closure or other traffic regulation.

1 Netherlands 2 Motorway 3 Expressway 4 Residential area 5 Zone 6 Speed limit 7 Footpath 8 Bike path 9 Cycling street 10 Pedestrian zone 11 Slope 12 Bus stop 13 Dead end 14 Stop sign 15 Give way 16 Roundabout 17 Priority road 18 Railway crossing 19 School area 20 Overtaking 21 Crossing animals 22 Roadworks 23 Weight limit 24 Radar speed sign 25 Selective barriers 26 Low-emission zone 27 Priority at the next junction 28 Traffic lights 29 Traffic lights warning 30 Road markings 31 Speed feedback 32 Traffic mirror 33 Emergency telephone 34 Cycling route 35 Parking 36 No parking 37 No stopping 38 Park and ride 39 Kiss and ride 40 Parking disc 41 Disabled parking 42 Traffic management 43 Merging 44 Reversing 45 Uncontrolled crossroad 46 Advisory cycle lane 47 Rush-hour lane 48 Emergency exit 49 Oversize load 50 City limit 51 Parking zone 52 Axle weight limit 53 Licence plate 54 Charging station 55 Dangers 56 Equestrian trail 57 Cyclist 58 Truck 59 Bus 60 Police 61 Ambulance 62 Bicycle parking station 63 Tram lights 64 European emission standard 65 Pothole 66 Path 67 Particulates 68 Air pollution 69 Rush hour 70 Road code 71 Street gutter 72 Cargo bike 73 Forestry vehicle 74 Construction vehicle 75 Semi-trailer truck 76 Trolleybus 77 Speed pedelec 78 Delivery vehicle 79 Idling 80 Tow truck 81 Four-wheel drive 82 No vehicles 83 Bicycle 84 Motorcycle equipment 85 Rail track 86 Caravan 87 Trailer 88 Tow hitch 89 Fire truck 90 Siren 91 Convoy 92 Emergency vehicle lighting 93 Agricultural machinery 94 Electric bicycle 95 Electric vehicle 96 Pedelec 97 Quadricycle 98 Microcar 99 All-terrain vehicle 100 Van ...