We like to cycle often in the Netherlands and the road surface must therefore be shared with many others. In addition to fixed traffic rules, there are also unwritten rules involved. We will discuss the cycling etiquette that applies.
Riding one after the other
It is most enjoyable to ride side by side when you cycle with someone else. However, when it is busy or on a narrow road surface, this is very annoying for other traffic. In such situations, drive one after the other. If you cycle alone, keep to the right as much as possible.
Overtake safely
If you are cycling next to each other, pull over in time to let someone pass. The ANWB recommends that the left cyclist accelerates and ride in front of the right cyclist. That is the fastest and safest way. If either of them slows down, a faster car behind you may be inconvenienced or even collide with you.
If you are the one who wants to catch up, give the other(s) enough time and space to make that possible. Keep in mind that others often do not hear you coming and that they may be startled by you. The bicycle bell is officially only intended to avert impending danger, so instead of ringing you can also say “excuse me” or “hello, I’m just catching up” in a timely manner. After catching up, it is appreciated if you raise your hand as a thank you or say this out loud.
Extend your hand
Don’t assume that others will naturally respond when you decline. By extending your hand, it is immediately clear that you are changing direction. This is not only safer, but also ensures better flow.
Adjust your speed
When it is busy, keep to the speed of other traffic and do not slalom at full speed between other road users. If you are unable to keep up with other traffic, an e-bike can be a solution so that you can use pedal assistance.
Make eye contact
Do you want to change direction and is there traffic coming from another direction? Then make eye contact, so that you are sure that the person has seen you.
To make smalltalk
Do you meet someone along the way or do you want to talk to your cycling partner while stationary? Then do not stand on either side of the path. Other cyclists are then forced to cycle through them and this can lead to unsafe situations. Therefore, stand on the same side of the cycle path, preferably a little bit away from the path.
Stop safely
Even when you want to take a break, grab something to eat or check the route, it is important to get off the road or cycle path for a while, so that others are not bothered by you.
Also read: Safe (electric) cycling? Young and old can succeed with these tips
Keep to the correct direction of travel
Other traffic is not aware if you deviate from the direction of travel. Therefore, do not cycle against traffic. This is especially dangerous on narrower and busy roads.
Cycling and a mobile phone don’t go together
It is not without reason that nowadays there is a hefty fine for using a mobile phone while cycling. It may seem that it is not that distracting, but nothing could be further from the truth and an accident can happen just around the corner.
Don’t use an umbrella
An umbrella is not a suitable attribute to protect you from the rain while cycling. It robs you of your vision and a gust of wind can blow you off your bike (into someone else). Therefore, it is better to choose a well-fitting hat or cap with a peak that keeps the rain out of your eyes and wear well-fitting rain clothing.
Working (not too bright) bicycle lights
You are not only endangering yourself when your bicycle lights do not work or when you do not switch them on when it gets dark. This also poses a danger to other traffic. A major annoyance is exactly the opposite: lighting that works too well, i.e. too bright. If the lighting is not properly adjusted, it can dazzle other road users. In an earlier article we explain what you should pay attention to.
Bicycle parking
Park your bicycle as far as possible in the designated spaces or bicycle sheds. But in any case not in a place where it can easily fall over or near a car, a window or an exit.
Earplugs in?
It is legally permitted to use earplugs, for example to listen to music or a podcast. However, it is important that you can continue to hear ambient sounds clearly. And it may only be done ‘hands-free’. You are therefore not allowed to hold your mobile phone or music player in your hand while cycling.
Do not use a footpath as a road surface
No matter how tempting, a footpath is not intended for cyclists. Not even when you cycle slowly. If you want to use it with your bicycle, get off and take the bicycle in your hand. An exception is when a sidewalk is empty and, for example, there is a van in the way on the road you have to pass.
(Source: Archive, ANWB, Veilig Verkeer Nederland, De Telegraaf, Het Parool. Photo: Shutterstock)
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