Navigating roundabouts can present challenges for riders who aren’t used to cycling in traffic, especially if drivers don’t understand their obligations.
Most bike lanes will abruptly end just before a roundabout. The reasoning behind this is that riders are expected then to merge with the traffic, and cars are supposed to follow behind a rider navigating the roundabout, rather than trying to squeeze past.
Bicycle riders are also allowed to proceed around the roundabout and turn right from the left hand lane. Cars are supposed to watch out for them, but riders have to give way to vehicles exiting the roundabout.
In reality drivers seem unaware of this rule and rarely look for a cyclist proceeding around the roundabout on the left.
Bike lights and wearing bright or reflective clothing can help improve visibility.
We also recommend riding ‘predictably’ as a car would. A motor driver is more likely to look for you in the place they would expect to see a car.
When coming up on a roundabout:
- Indicate and merge with the traffic.
- If required to stop, indicate again if you are turning right or left.
- Proceed when clear: remain in the middle of the left lane if proceeding straight or turning left OR to the right of that lane if making a right hand turn.
If it is safe to do so, you can indicate your intention to leave the roundabout or continue around with a hand signal - though it isn’t always safe to release the handlebars.