In NSW, when bikes are in a road environment they are considered a vehicle. As such they must follow all road rules like a motor vehicle, this includes coming to a complete stop at a stop sign and not using a mobile phone while riding.
Special Rules For Bike Riders
Yet there are special rules that apply to bike riders. Bike riders:
- must use hand signals (we encourage to use stop, left and right but only a right hand turn is required by law)
- may perform hook turns at intersections unless prohibited by sign posting.
- can cycle two abreast but not more than 1.5 metres apart.
- can overtake two other riders who are cycling side-by-side.
- can travel in a Bus Lane, Tram Lane, Transit Lane or Truck Lane but not in a Bus Only Lane
- can ride to the left of a continuous white edge line.
- may overtake on the left of stopped and slow moving vehicles.
Taking The Lane
Riders are often told to cycle to the left of the lane, however that isn't the law. Riders can cycle in the middle of the lane. The laws states "On a single lane road all vehicles must drive as close to the left as practicable," which applies to both cars and bikes. On a multi lane road, bike riders can occupy the middle of the lane.
Bus Lanes
Bike riders can ride in bus lanes and is often a way to avoid the heavy flow of traffic. However if a sign appears with the words “Bus-only lane” the lane must be vacated.
