Cycling Laws In spain

Cycling Rules In Spain

Not all countries have the same cycle laws – this surprises a lot of riders. In spain you will have to adhere to the below guidelines of face a possible fine. It is best to be prepared with this information should you be stopped by traffic agents.

• You must not use a mobile phone while cycling.
• While EBICI recommend the use of a helmet, it is NOT compulsory by law.
• All cyclists should ride on the right hand side of the road, never ride against the flow of traffic.
• Cyclists must use any designated bicycle lanes and trails and ride at no more than 30 km/h.
• You must not cycle in a bus lane as they are only intended for public transport.
• Using a mobile phone while cycling is prohibited.
• You are not allowed to listen to music while cycling through headphones or earbuds.
• You must keep both hands on the handlebars when cycling other than to signal.
• You must use hand-signals to indicate your intention to turn or change direction.
• You should park your bicycle in designated spaces and must not attach it to trees, benches, traffic lights, street lights and waste bins etc.
• When riding in bicycle lanes or similar areas, you must take care when approaching junctions which are used by pedestrians or other vehicles.
• Cyclists must not exceed the speed limit of the road or make abrupt or dangerous movements.
• When cycling close to a building, you must allow at least 5m between you and the buildings facade.
• All bicycles must be fitted with a bell, rear reflector and have front and rear lights.
• Reflective clothing must be worn between sunset and sunrise.
• Children under 7 must be carried in an approved seat and must wear a helmet.

Riding a bicycle on pavements, sidewalks, public parks and other similar pedestrian areas is also not permitted, except at a speed of less than 10 km/h and when the following conditions apply:-

• There are no cycle lanes available to use
• There are no signs prohibiting cycling.
• The pavement or sidewalk is over 3m wide
• The sidewalk is not crowded and you are able to cycle at a distance of at least 1m from any pedestrian and can cycle in a straight line for more than 5m.

When pushing a bicycle, you are classed as a pedestrian and can therefore push your bike on the pavement.

Cycling Fines

The potential fines for breaking any of the above rules are listed below: 

Below are just a few of the current fines that can be issued. However, it’s hard to say how much of a fine you will incur for some of the other infringements listed above.

• Being under the influence of alcohol – €500.00
• No brakes or faulty brakes – €80.00
• Not having any lights on between sunset and sunrise – €200.00
• Failing to stop at a traffic light – €200.00
• Not having a bell – €80.00
• Failing to give way – €200.00
• Not wearing high visibility clothing – €200.00

Although it can appear that many of the cycling laws are not enforced here, there are obviously exceptions to this and with the fines being quite severe, it’s probably best to ride with caution