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Bicycle; information on technical safety

Cycling is fast, healthy and good for the environment. In addition to the user's knowledge of the rules, the technical condition of a bicycle is of crucial importance for safety.

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Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Wohnen, Bau und Verkehr

Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Wohnen, Bau und Verkehr

Street address

Franz-Josef-Strauß-Ring 4
80539 München

Postal address

Postfach 22 12 53

80502 München

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Procedure details

The minimum equipment required by law for a bicycle - in working order, of course - includes, for example

  • two independent brakes for the front and rear wheels,
  • an alternator (dynamo) or battery or rechargeable energy storage device (accumulator) or a combination of these as an energy source,
  • a white headlight and white front reflector,
    please note: flashing headlights are not permitted
  • a red rear light and a red category "Z" reflector, which may be integrated in the rear light
  • side reflectors on the front and rear wheel
  • reflectors in the pedal and
  • a bright sounding bell.

The exact technical requirements can be found in the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO).

For your own protection, always check the technical condition of your bike before setting off.

And of course the following applies to every ride: only with a helmet!

Note on electric bicycles, pedelecs or e-bikes

Only electric bicycles equipped with an electric motor with a maximum rated continuous output of 0.25 kW, whose assistance is progressively reduced with increasing vehicle speed and is interrupted when a speed of 25 km/h is reached or when the rider stops pedaling, are considered bicycles.

  • Cycling; information on subsidies

    The bicycle is of great importance for daily mobility: it is usually the fastest, cheapest and most effective means of transportation for short to medium distances and is almost permanently available. More cycling means a better quality of life in urban and rural areas.

Status: 05.02.2025
Editorially responsible for prodecure description: Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Wohnen, Bau und Verkehr
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