Using cycle lanes and other cycling facilities safely
Cycle tracks, bus lanes, shared use paths, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes, toucan crossings and other facilities are provided specifically to help improve safety for cyclists and other road users.
Cycle tracks
Cycle tracks are provided for bicycle use only and have a kerb line separating them from the road.
Remember:
- cyclists are most at risk when entering and exiting the cycle track
- there are no rules about which side of the track to use but cyclists generally keep to the left
- be aware of pedestrians and other road users who may need to cross the track
- you're required by law to have a bell to alert other road users that you're there
you should always be considerate to other road users who give way to you
- Cycle track video clip (YouTube website)
Shared use paths
These paths can be used by pedestrians, cyclists, joggers and dog walkers.
There are no lanes marked on the path and nobody has the right of way, so all users are equally responsible for their actions.
As a cyclist it's important that you keep your speed down and watch out for others.
Pay particular attention to vulnerable users, such as the elderly and small children.
When you're approaching people wearing headphones, remember they may not be able to hear your bell.
Cyclists are only allowed to use paths which are designated for them. There will be a blue sign to show if you're allowed to cycle on a path.
Segregated paths
These paths are divided, and a solid line separates pedestrians and cyclists. There will be a bicycle painted at the start of the path to show you which side is yours.
However, be aware that small children, other pedestrians, and dogs may wander onto your side of the path.
Be considerate, sound your bell and thank them when someone moves over for you.
With-flow lanes
These are cycle lanes on which you should travel in the same direction as the traffic - they may be alongside busy roads.
The main dangers to cyclists are:
- pedestrians crossing the lane
and
- vehicles joining the road from side road junctions
If it's necessary for you to leave the lane, you must:
- check behind
- make eye contact with the driver of the vehicle behind
and
signal your intention clearly
- With-flow lanes video clip (YouTube website)
Contraflow lanes
In a contraflow lane you're travelling against the flow of the traffic.
You must pay particular attention to pedestrians crossing between parked cars who may not be aware of the cycle lane.
Car drivers also may not expect to see cyclists travelling in the opposite direction.
Watch out for the doors of parked cars being opened into your path by unsuspecting drivers and passengers.
Bus lanes
As a cyclist, bus lanes can make your journey smoother and faster. But remember that you share it with buses, taxis and motorcycles.
To make yourself more visible to other users of the bus lane, stay mainly in the middle, moving in to a metre from the kerb to allow buses/ taxis to pass safely.
You should:
- never cycle along the inside of a bus as there are blind spots
remember - if you cannot see the driver, the driver cannot see you
- Bus lanes video clip (YouTube website)
Advanced stop lines
These boxes with a bicycle painted on them are becoming more common at traffic light junctions.
Only cyclists are allowed in these boxes.
When in the box, you should make eye contact with the driver behind you, especially if they're in a high-seated vehicle.
Cyclists must stop at red lights. For more information see Rule 178 of the Highway Code for NI.
Equipment and maintenance
To cycle safely you need:
- a red rear reflector
- efficient brakes
- a working bell or horn
- working front and rear lights for cycling at night
There is advice on high-visibility clothing, helmets, and legal requirements of bicycle maintenance at this link: