Bike riding safely
Hobart's streets are for everyone – whether you're riding a bike, walking, or driving.
Riding a bike is a great way to get around, stay active, and enjoy our city.
To keep it safe and enjoyable, here's what you need to know about road rules for riding in Hobart.
Please note: this is a basic guide only – the full road rules are available on the Tasmanian Government Transport Services website.
The basics
Wear a helmet
No matter how confident you are as a rider, you are still at risk of crashing. Wearing a helmet reduces you chance of suffering a head injury by more than 50 per cent.
Don't be a traffic hazard
Riding can be fun, but always make sure you are not causing a traffic hazard by moving into the path of a vehicle or pedestrian. Always give way to pedestrians.
Make sure your bike is safe
Always ensure you have at least one working brake and a bell, or some other loud warning device.
Ensure you can be seen
When riding at night, you must have a white front light and red rear light that is visible from 200 metres. Also, you need to have a red reflector on the back of your bike.
Where can you ride?
Roads
You can ride on most streets, so long as you are following the same road rules as any other vehicle.
Bike lanes
You should use bike lanes where available, unless it would be unsafe to do so.
Footpaths
You can ride on the footpath, unless there is a No Bicycles sign. These signs do not apply to children under the age of 12.
Crossings
You must stop as near as practical to the crossing, before riding across slowly and safely while giving way to pedestrians.
Riding on the road
Follow all road signs and signals
Bikes are vehicles too and must abide by all road rules, including stop sign and red lights.
Drivers must give you space
Vehicles overtaking cyclists must give at least 1 metres of breathing room, or 1.5 metres if the speed limit is above 60km/h.
You can ride alongside another cyclist
So long as you are no more than 1.5 metres apart and there are no more than two abreast.
Overtake on the left
Cyclists are permitted to overtake slow-moving or stationary cars on the left, but not if the vehicle is turning left.
Other rules
- One person per bike – unless your bike is designed for it. For example, tandem or child seat.
- You must be at least 16 years old to tow a trailer behind your bike.
- Don't hold onto vehicles while riding.