Questions and answers

The main place for a cyclist over 14 is a cycle path, a shared cycle-pedestrian path or a cycle lane. If there are none, the rules allow riding at the right edge of the roadway and, in the specific cases listed in clause 24.2, on the shoulder, sidewalk or footpath. On a sidewalk, a cyclist must not get in pedestrians' way.

Get off the bike and walk it alongside you. From that moment you act as a pedestrian: follow the traffic signal and give way to cars just as you would on foot. This is required by clause 24.8 of the rules.

In the dark and in poor visibility, for example in fog or heavy rain; that is what clause 19.1 of the rules says. In practice it is worth switching the lights on already at dusk.

A bike usually has no turn indicators, so your arm takes their place. Signal a turn or a stop in advance so drivers and other cyclists have time to understand your intentions, and make the manoeuvre itself with both hands on the handlebars.

Go by the condition of the chain, not the calendar. If it squeaks, looks dry or you have ridden in the rain, it is time to clean and lubricate it. After lubricating, always wipe off the excess with a rag.

Press it with your thumb: a well-inflated tyre barely gives. The exact pressure is printed on the tyre sidewall, and the easiest way to check it is with a pump that has a pressure gauge.

Ideally in a dry place without sharp temperature swings. Before storing, wash the bike, lube the chain and pump the tyres up a little. If you keep it on a balcony, put a cover over it to protect it from snow and damp.

Lock the frame, not just a wheel, to a firmly fixed stand, and do not leave the bike for long in a deserted spot. Write down or photograph the frame serial number; it will help identify the bike if it does get stolen.

Only on sidewalks, footpaths and shared cycle-pedestrian paths (on the side meant for pedestrians), and in pedestrian zones. That is what clause 24.4 of the rules says.

On sidewalks, footpaths, cycle paths and shared cycle-pedestrian paths, and within pedestrian zones, as set out in clause 24.3 of the rules. Riding on the roadway is not allowed at this age.

The child should be able to put their feet on the ground confidently when sitting on the saddle or standing over the frame, and reach the handlebars and brake levers without strain. A bike bought to grow into is harder to control and scary for a beginner.

We recommend wearing a helmet on every ride: children fall more often while they are learning. The helmet should be the right size and fastened snugly, and parents wearing helmets themselves works better than any amount of persuasion.