New Road Rules for cyclists

There are new rules shortly to come into effect that we cyclists and drivers should be aware.


New bicycle storage areas at intersections

See RTA NSW Gov website ref. http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/rulesregulations/roadrules/2008nswrrulechanges.html


Some intersections that have traffic lights may now contain bicycle storage areas. These are painted areas on the road in front of the stop line that allow cyclists to wait at the traffic lights in safety.

There are a number of new rules relating to driver and cyclist responsibilities at bicycle storage areas.

For example, when traffic lights or arrows are red, drivers must not allow any part of their vehicle to enter the bicycle storage area.

PENALTY: Three demerit points (four in a school zone) and a $324 fine ($405 in a school zone).

Hook turns by bicycle riders

When a cyclist chooses to do a hook turn at an intersection and a bicycle hook turn storage area is provided, they must now use that area. The RTA website shows the bicycle making a correct hook turn at an intersection with a bicycle hook turn storage area.

Cyclists should keep to the left when riding across the intersection to enter the bicycle hook turn storage area, turn right and wait in the storage area until the traffic light shows green (if you are at traffic lights) or if there are no lights, until it is safe to cross.
PENALTY: $54 fine.


There are more rules coming into force too - like you can no longer ride with a pet on your motorbike's petrol tank, unless it's for farming purposes but in that situation, for no more than 500m. Check out the RTA website.

And details of Tour de Cure's rider etiquette document can be downloaded from http://www.tourdecure.com.au/docs/BunchRidingEtiquette.pdf