Are racing bikes allowed on the road? What you should know

Racing bikes are generally allowed on the road if they meet the requirements of the StVO. It is important that your bike is equipped accordingly.

Under these conditions, racing bikes are allowed on the road

Road bikes are known for their lightness and speed. But what rules apply to them in traffic? The road traffic regulations define certain requirements that your bike must meet if you want to use it in traffic.

• Road bikes were originally designed for use as sports equipment and are therefore usually lighter and more minimalist than conventional bikes. They do not have mudguards or headlights, reflectors or a bell. However, these are important prerequisites for use on public roads.

• However, you have the option of retrofitting your road bike accordingly, thus making it roadworthy. It takes just a few steps to do this, after which you can use your bike on public roads without any problems.

• A bell and reflectors are mandatory. The bike should also have two functioning brakes.

• You can also permanently install headlights. However, many racing cyclists prefer to carry battery lights and attach them when it gets dark. This is also permitted in road traffic.

• There is a special regulation for racing bikes weighing less than 11 kg: you may use battery-powered lighting that does not have to be permanently mounted. This is specified in § 67 of the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). However, make sure that the lighting is always ready for use at dusk, in the dark or in poor visibility.

More important tips for road bikes in traffic

With the right preparation, you can ride your road bike on the road. The important thing is to regularly check the current traffic regulations of the StVO to ensure that you ride your road bike safely and in compliance with the rules.

• All cyclists must use cycle paths if these are marked with blue traffic signs (signs 237, 240 or 241). This also applies to racing bikes. Without this marking, the use of the cycle path is voluntary. In such cases, you may decide whether you want to use the cycle path or the road.

• Violations of the regulations may result in fines. These can vary depending on the violation. For example, driving without adequate lighting costs 20 euros according to the fine catalog (as of February 2025).

• If you disobey the obligation to use cycle paths, you may also incur fines of between 20 and 35 euros, depending on whether an obstruction, endangerment or accident occurs. If, for example, you have obstructed other road users through your behavior, you can expect to pay 25 euros.

• Using a cell phone while riding is only allowed with a hands-free system. Listening to music with headphones is allowed as long as you can still perceive ambient noise and are not distracted by it.

• When there are more than 15 cyclists in a group, the group is considered a closed group. In this case, you are allowed to ride next to each other on the road.