Mandatory equipment (StVZO)
To be road-legal in Germany, every bicycle needs this kit – no exceptions for “just a short ride”.
Rules that surprise visitors
Cycle paths are not always mandatory
Only paths marked with the round blue sign are obligatory. Without that sign you may ride on the road. Sidewalks: adults no; under 8 must; under 10 may.
Alcohol limits apply
From 1.6‰ cycling is a criminal offence and can cost your car licence. Erratic riding can trigger penalties from 0.3‰. Ride sober.
Overtaking distance protects you
Drivers must keep 1.5 m in town and 2 m outside when overtaking. Ride ~1 m from parked cars – outside the dooring zone.
Helmets: recommended, not required
No helmet law for normal bikes and pedelecs (S-pedelecs are different). We still strongly recommend one – light, ventilated, highly effective.
City riding that keeps you intact
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Beware the right turn
The most dangerous urban conflict: a vehicle turning right across a cyclist going straight. Never stop in a truck’s blind spot.
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Be visible
Lights on in dusk, rain and tunnels. Bright clothing multiplies detection distance.
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Make eye contact
At junctions, a moment of eye contact beats any paper right of way.
The encouraging trend
Despite growing bike traffic, German cycling is safer per kilometre. Protected lanes, redesigned junctions, truck turn-assist and 30 km/h zones all help. Vision Zero drives policy.
Your part: ride predictably, stay visible, treat every junction with respect.