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How to become a cyclist in Luxembourg
This guide answers the main questions: How and where to buy a bike? How to ride safely? How to avoid getting a fine? And most importantly: where can I enjoy riding in Luxembourg?
Bicycling in Luxembourg is not only a healthy and environmentally friendly mode of transport. It is also a way of life here. The bicycle movement is supported by the government, the public and has been growing rapidly in recent years.
Buying a bicycle in Luxembourg is a fairly simple task that does not require a serious investment of time. It is not a car that needs to be registered, insured, officially commissioned and so on.
A cyclist only needs to get a bike in any legal way and buy the necessary equipment. There are three ways to do this: buy a new bike, get a second-hand bike or rent a vehicle for a short period of time.
Buying a new bike
Buying a bike from official shops is worthwhile for several reasons:
- You will receive the equipment straight from the factory, in perfect condition and with all warranties from the retail outlet.
- You can get a subsidy from the state for a new bicycle.
- Possibility to choose any suitable model.
Of course, there are certain disadvantages to this method, such as: high price, selection of only those models that are presented at the seller, sometimes inconvenient location of the shop and so on.
However, if you want the purchase to bring mostly positive emotions, and the negative ones to be solved quickly and with minimal effort — choose this method.
How to get a subsidy
Financial assistance applies only to the purchase of new appliances and is available to all residents regardless of age.
The duration of the government subsidy programme is from 1 January 2019 to 31 March 2024 inclusive.
There are two ways to apply for funding: through Guichet or by post.
Application via portal MyGuichet.lu
To do this, you will need any authenticator (LuxTrust, eID or eIDAS) and the personal space created. Then use the Guichet mobile application to submit the application. Remember that the legal guardian must submit the application for minors
Application via post
To do so, you will need to fill in the application form below and send it to: "Administration de l'environnement Subsides et aides financières1, avenue du Rock'n'Roll, L-4361 Esch-sur-Alzette".
The amount of the cash allowance can be up to 50 per cent of the value of the bike, but not more than €600.
Buying a second-hand bike
Buying a bike by hand is also worth considering as a worthy alternative. Yes, you probably won't have a warranty from the manufacturer. However, you will be able to save money.
Pros of buying on hand
- The price is much more attractive than in the shop.
- Ability to find models that have already been withdrawn from sale.
However, remember that if you buy a second-hand bike, you disqualify yourself from the subsidy.
If you decide to buy a used bike, use word of mouth or notice boards. And don't forget to check the product thoroughly before you buy it!
Rent a bike
Renting a bike is one of the most affordable alternatives for those who don't need two-wheeled transport for an extended period of time.
This way is ideal if, for example, you want to take a sightseeing tour of the city centre and then return the bikes and go home by car.
You can rent a bike through numerous services, one of the most popular of which is Vel'Oh.
Once you've made your choice, don't forget the basic protective gear: kneepads, helmet and gloves.
Although bicycles are lightweight and relatively safe, there are certain rules to riding a bicycle that are best not broken.
Requirements for the bicycle
To ride in the cities and roads of the Grand Duchy, a bike must be equipped with a whole list of mandatory components:
The bell
According to Article 38 of the Luxembourg Traffic Code, a bicycle bell must be audible at a distance of at least 50 metres
Two brakes
This can be either two independent steering wheel brakes, or a front steering brake and a rear pedal brake.
Lantern
The front light shall be white or yellow in colour with an output of at least 10 lux.
Reflectors
Must be fitted: on the spokes of both wheels (at least 2 on each, white or yellow) or tyres with reflective sidewall; on both pedals; and a red rear reflector.
Signal lights
The rear light must, like the front light, have an output of at least 10 lux. The colour shall be strictly red.
It is strongly recommended not to ignore these requirements, as the fines for non-compliance are steep: from 49 to 74 euros! It is noteworthy that sports and racing bikes intended for training and competition are exempt from these regulations.
Equipment requirements
There are no strict rules prescribed by law. That is, you will not be fined for not wearing a helmet, but the city authorities and the police recommend that you do not ignore protective equipment. These include a helmet, gloves, elbow pads and kneepads, and any other equipment that protects the cyclist in the event of a fall or accident.
Understandably, full motorbike armour is likely to be overkill, but wearing one if you feel the need is not prohibited.
The only slightly stricter recommendation is your visibility. For this purpose, you can use, for example, reflective elements.
Traffic rules and other regulations
A cyclist is a full-fledged road user. This means that he or she must obey the Luxembourg traffic rules.
The first thing to keep in mind is the authorised bike lane. There are 3 in total:
Dedicated lane
This is usually the rightmost lane on the road with a special marking.
Cycle track
If there is one, you are obliged to drive on it.
Pedestrian zones
Only when there is a special authorising sign.
Always check the condition of the drive and brakes before setting out for a walk and especially on the carriageway. This can save your life.
The Luxembourg Police also reminds you that the dedicated bus lane is not suitable for cyclists. It is not advisable to stop alongside or in front of buses and lorries: the driver may not see you in the blind spot.
Children can get around on the roads:
- From the age of 6, but only when accompanied by a person over 15 years old.
- From the age of 10 unaccompanied.
- Under 13s are also allowed to ride on pavements in parks, residential areas and pedestrian zones.
The last important rule, which is obvious enough, but still needs mentioning:
Do not drive under the influence of alcohol, even if it is the handlebars of a bicycle. The penalties for drink driving are just as severe as for motorists!
Transportation and parking regulations
Transportation
Bicycles are great transport, but travelling long distances on them is not as easy as it may seem at first. So you can load it on a train, get to the right place and continue on two wheels.
Technically, you can do the same thing on a tram or bus, just remember that they usually have less space, which means more chance of inconveniencing other passengers.
This is not a problem on trains. CFL has thoughtfully equipped internal trains with special bicycle racks.
Parking
When thinking about soft mobility, the Luxembourg authorities did not forget about places where you can leave your bicycle. All cities, and the capital in particular, have plenty of parking spaces for your two-wheeler.
You can also leave your bicycle on the street. The only requirement is that it must not interfere with pedestrians, traffic or other cyclists.
If you want a covered car park, this option is also available. At many railway stations, so-called M-Boxes - secure storage facilities for bikes - are available. To use them, you will need an M-Kaart. Most often, however, Luxembourgers park on the streets. The country is quite safe and theft is extremely rare.
Luxembourg is ideal for cycling. Yes, there is no such mass craze as in Denmark or Holland, but it is almost impossible to walk down the street and not see cyclists.
The country is perfect for both leisurely urban promenades and tough multi-kilometre rides of varying difficulty. Of course, different goals require different levels of technical and physical fitness. However, if you decide to try your hand at sport biking, be sure to check out our specialised article.
Biking In Luxembourg: renting, trails and festivals for cyclists
Read articleOf course, in addition to the many trails, Luxembourg also hosts regular festivals for cycling enthusiasts.
Ironman
Ironman cannot be called a purely cycling festival. Most often these events are organised in the format of a triathlon, where participants are offered speed races, as well as running and swimming trials.
Vёlosummer
Cycling Summer, as the name suggests, is already fully dedicated to the cherished theme. The festival was born in 2020 and is only growing in popularity with each new season. There are trails for cyclists with different training, and on weekends they even close off motorways so that no one can disturb the festivities.
Tour du Duerf
An interesting national game similar to the Tour de France. All municipalities participate. Participants register on a website and mobile app. In the same app they indicate the distance travelled by bicycle and receive points. The municipality with the most points wins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it easy to buy a bicycle in Luxembourg?
Yes, it is quite easy to do. And there are options available for buying new equipment as well as used bikes. It all just depends on your preferences and budget.
Are there any mandatory components that must be fitted to the bike?
It's a must! Their list is not very large, but it is extremely important, because it guarantees your safety on the road. In addition, you can be fined for ignoring police demands.
Is it okay to drive while drunk?
Technically, riding a bicycle does not require you to be sober. However, remember that it is still a vehicle that poses a threat to the life and health of others. Therefore, the police recommend abstaining from alcohol and not getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. The penalties can be serious.
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Source: luxembourg.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, police.public.lu
We took photos from these sources: Florian Kurrasch at Unsplash
Authors: Aleksandr
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