Rue cyclableFrance

A cycling street is a road where cycling is given a prominent position while motor vehicles may usually continue to use the road under additional restrictions.

It may be identified by special entrance signs, bicycle symbols, coloured surfacing or distinctive road markings. The legally required signs differ between countries.

No. A bike path is a separate part of the road or a separate route intended for cyclists. On a cycling street, cyclists and motor vehicles normally share the carriageway.

Not always. A cycling street may refer to one individual street, while a cycling zone may include several connected streets governed by the same rules. Local terminology varies.

Usually, yes. A cycling street is not normally closed to motor traffic, although access may be restricted by additional signs or local regulations.

This depends on local law. In some cycling streets, cyclists may use a larger part of the carriageway or ride in the centre of the lane. In others, the normal positioning rules continue to apply.

This depends on the rules of the country and the available road width. Cyclists may often ride side by side where this does not endanger or unlawfully obstruct other road users.

Some countries expressly prohibit motor vehicles from overtaking cyclists on cycling streets. Elsewhere, overtaking may remain permitted only when the legally required distance and other safety conditions can be respected.

Normally, cyclists may overtake other vehicles when the manoeuvre is permitted and can be completed safely. They must still observe local overtaking, lane and intersection rules.

There is no universal speed limit. Many countries impose a low maximum speed, commonly 30 km/h or less, but drivers must follow the signs and laws applying locally.

No. A cycling street does not normally give cyclists automatic priority at every intersection. Traffic lights, priority signs, crossings and the ordinary priority rules remain applicable.

Not necessarily. Pedestrians normally use pavements, crossings and other designated facilities. A cycling street is different from a pedestrian zone or residential shared-space area.

Stopping and parking depend on the ordinary rules and any local signs or markings. Vehicles must not block cyclists, pavements, crossings, entrances or other traffic.

No. Coloured surfacing may make the street easier to recognise, but it does not necessarily have legal meaning by itself. The official signs and local regulations determine which rules apply.

The special rules normally end at an end sign, the end of the designated street or another legally defined boundary. The exact rule differs between countries.