BicycleWallonia
Traffic rules
Wallonia
94. Bicycle
A bicycle is a vehicle with two or more wheels that is primarily propelled by the rider using pedals or hand cranks. Bicycles are used for transport, recreation, sport and the carriage of small loads or passengers when appropriately equipped.
Some bicycles have an electric motor that assists the rider while pedalling. Whether an electrically assisted bicycle remains legally classified as a bicycle depends on its motor power, assistance speed and local regulations. Cyclists must follow the traffic rules, signs, signals and road-use requirements that apply to bicycles.
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What is legally considered a bicycle in Belgium?
A Belgian bicycle is a two-wheeled cycle propelled by pedals or hand cranks. Three- and four-wheeled cycles up to 1 metre wide are generally treated in the same way for the applicable cycling rules.
Is an ordinary electric bicycle legally a bicycle in Belgium?
Yes. An electrically assisted bicycle remains classified as a cycle when the auxiliary motor has a maximum continuous rated power of no more than 250 W, assists only while pedalling and stops providing assistance by 25 km/h.
Is a cyclist legally a driver in Belgium?
Yes. A cyclist riding a bicycle is considered a driver and must follow the traffic rules applying to drivers as well as the specific rules for cyclists.
Must Belgian cyclists use a cycle path?
Yes, when an applicable and usable compulsory cycle path is provided. Cycle paths may be identified by the prescribed road markings or signs such as D7 or D9.
Where should a cyclist ride if there is no cycle path?
A cyclist must normally ride on the right-hand side of the carriageway. Certain suitable verges and, outside built-up areas, other specified parts of the public road may also be used under the applicable conditions.
Can children cycle on the pavement in Belgium?
Yes, if they are younger than 10 years old. They may ride on pavements and raised verges provided they do not endanger other road users.
Is a bicycle helmet compulsory in Belgium?
No. There is currently no general helmet requirement for ordinary cyclists, although wearing an approved bicycle helmet is strongly recommended.
What equipment must an ordinary Belgian bicycle have?
An ordinary bicycle must have a bell audible from 20 metres, two brakes with one acting on the front wheel and one on the rear wheel, and the prescribed front, rear, pedal and lateral reflectors.
When must bicycle lights be used in Belgium?
Bicycle lights must be used between nightfall and dawn and whenever visibility is less than approximately 200 metres. The front light must be white or yellow and the rear light red.
Can Belgian bicycle lights flash?
Yes. Bicycle lights may be steady or flashing, but they must not dazzle other road users. They may be fitted to the bicycle or worn by the cyclist and must remain clearly visible.
Can Belgian cyclists ride two abreast?
Yes. Cyclists may generally ride two abreast. On the carriageway they must ride single file when an oncoming vehicle cannot pass safely, and outside built-up areas they must also move into single file when a vehicle approaches from behind.
Can you carry a passenger on a bicycle in Belgium?
Yes, if the bicycle has a proper passenger seat and two footrests. A passenger may not simply sit on the luggage rack and may not travel side-saddle.
Can a bicycle tow a passenger trailer in Belgium?
Yes. A bicycle trailer may carry up to two passengers and must have secure seats that adequately protect their hands, feet and backs.
How much distance must motorists leave when passing a cyclist?
A motor vehicle passing a cyclist must leave at least 1 metre inside a built-up area and at least 1.5 metres outside a built-up area.
Is someone walking a bicycle considered a pedestrian in Belgium?
Yes. Once a person dismounts and walks the bicycle by hand, that person is treated as a pedestrian and follows the applicable pedestrian rules.
