What lighting does the bike need?
Lighting is an essential safety factor for cyclists. With our Flasher Duo you are guaranteed to be safer on the road, but what regulations actually apply in Austria, Germany and Switzerland?
A quick note: The use of Flasher is permitted in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. You can find more information in this article.
Regulations on bicycle lighting in Austria
In Austria, the following rules apply according to the bicycle regulations :
- A white, non-flashing headlight that must be attached to the bike. This is essential when riding in the dark in order to spot obstacles and dangers in good time.
- A red rear light that can also flash. This flexibility allows better adaptation to different lighting conditions and increases your visibility.
- A red reflector on the rear of the bike to increase your visibility. These reflectors ensure that you are clearly visible even in low light conditions.
- Yellow reflectors on the pedals for better visibility in the dark. These reflectors make your movements more visible.
- Two yellow reflectors per wheel or reflective tires/rims to ensure visibility from the side. This is especially important to remain visible at intersections and when overtaking.
According to § 11 paragraph 3, the Austrian Road Traffic Act requires that changes of direction or lane changes must be indicated with appropriate devices. If this is not possible, clearly visible hand signals must be given. Foot signals are not permitted and driving without using your hands is prohibited, which increases safety.
Flasher Duo
The smartest bicycle and e-scooter lights in the world:
- Gesture control turn signal indicators
- 4 modes with ultra-bright 360° LEDs
- Automatic emergency brake lights
- Compliant with road regulations & water-resistant
- Additional features via Flasher app [optional]
Bicycle lighting in Germany
In Germany, bicycles must have the following lighting devices according to the StVZO :
- A white headlight that is permanently attached to the bike. This must always be switched on at dusk, in the dark or in poor visibility conditions. This ensures that you are clearly visible even in poor lighting conditions and can spot obstacles in good time.
- A red tail light that is permanently attached to the bike. Flashing tail lights are permitted and increase your visibility. Flashing lights are more effective, especially in heavy traffic or bad weather conditions.
- A red reflector on the rear of the bike that reflects when lit, increasing your visibility. These reflectors ensure that you remain visible even when light hits you from the side.
- Yellow reflectors on the pedals that ensure that other road users can see your movements. This is especially important to clarify your position and movement in the dark.
- Two yellow reflectors per wheel or reflective tires/rims that improve visibility from the side. These reflectors help ensure that you are also easily seen from the side, which is especially important at intersections and when overtaking.
In addition, Section 9 of the Road Traffic Act regulates turning, reversing and reversing. This requires that changes in direction are announced in good time and clearly. If a vehicle has indicators, they must be used. This shows that the legislator recognizes the necessity and usefulness of indicators. For cyclists, this means that they do not have to give hand signals as long as they announce the turn in good time and clearly.
Regulations on bicycle lighting in Switzerland
In Switzerland, there are clear regulations according to the VTS regarding bicycle lighting:
- A white or bright yellow light that shines forward and must be permanently attached to the bike. This light is necessary to illuminate the path ahead and make obstacles visible so you can ride safely.
- A red light that shines backwards. This must also be firmly attached to the bike and can increase the attention of other road users by flashing. Flashing is particularly effective in heavy traffic.
- A red reflector at the back that increases your visibility in the dark through reflection. These reflectors ensure that you are clearly seen even in poor visibility conditions.
- Two yellow reflectors per wheel or reflective tires/rims to improve visibility from the side. These reflectors are important to remain visible at intersections and when overtaking.
According to Article 28 of the Road Traffic Regulations (VRV), changes of direction must be announced by arm signals if there are no indicators. This means that cyclists must clearly indicate where they want to turn by extending their arm or using an indicator such as a flasher.
Proper bicycle lighting is essential for your safety on the road in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. With Flasher products, such as the Flasher Duo , you can significantly increase your visibility and therefore your safety. Protect yourself and ensure a safe ride by installing the right lighting equipment on your bike.