Is it illegal to ride a bike without holding the handlebars? Can you give a friend a ride on your saddle while you stand and pedal? And what about music in your ears, yay or nay? Here's where you'll find out once and for all.
1. Can you ride a bike on the sidewalk?
It's not only dangerous for pedestrians, but it's also prohibited by the Highway Safety Code. If you absolutely must use the sidewalk for personal safety reasons – for example, under an overpass used by heavy trucks – take the time to dismount and walk beside your bike, even if it delays you by a few minutes.
2. Can you ride a bike with headphones on?
You often see cyclists riding through the streets with headphones in their ears. Bad idea, because it is indeed prohibited by regulation.
3. Can you ride a bike without holding the handlebars?
It's almost charmingly nonchalant, but unfortunately for the handlebar idlers, it's a big "no." Both hands on the handlebars, and nowhere else.
4. Can you give a friend a ride on your seat while you pedal standing?
Unless there's an additional seat provided for this purpose, this form of "tandem cycling" is illegal, even if many young people in cities and the countryside occasionally do it for short distances...
5. Can you ride a bike without a helmet?
Wearing a helmet is highly recommended, but not mandatory. It's up to each individual to decide for themselves.
6. Can you consume alcoholic beverages while cycling?
Drinking with one hand and holding the handlebars with the other, why not? Because the Highway Safety Code prohibits it! Save that fantasy for the stationary bike in the basement.
7. Can you ride on the left in a one-way lane?
No, no, and no. Article 487 of the Highway Safety Code is unyielding on the subject, and for good reason. Not only do cars drive faster when they are on the left on a multi-lane boulevard, for example, but they are also far from expecting to overtake a bicycle there. And the element of surprise on the road is rarely a good thing...
8. Are reflectors mandatory?
To dispel any doubt about the visible accessories each bicycle must have, here is the official list:
- a white reflector on the front;
- a red reflector on the rear;
- a yellow reflector on each pedal;
- a reflector attached to the spokes of the front wheel;
- a reflector attached to the spokes of the rear wheel.
Furthermore, every bicycle must, at night, be equipped with a bicycle lighting system , namely, at least one white headlight on the front and one red taillight on the rear. While waiting for the Highway Code to be updated and adapted to our time as the number of cyclists continues to grow, it's still good to know, because don't forget that bicycle police are on the lookout to ensure that regulations are respected!