Rules for riding bikes in traffic
When riding a bike, there are special rules in place to help you stay safe in traffic and when interacting with buses and trams. Learn more about the rules.
Riding in traffic
Bicycle riders must use a bicycle lane, if available, unless it’s impractical to use it. If there’s no bicycle lane, ride to the left of the road but avoid grates, debris and parked cars.
When riding in traffic you must stop:
- at red lights
- at stop signs
- at give way signs if there is traffic travelling on the crossroad
- when entering a roadway, especially from a driveway
- at a railway crossing when:
- there is a stop sign
- the crossing lights are flashing
- the boom gate is down
- a railway employee signals traffic to stop
- a train is coming.
Riding a bicycle or e-bike in motorway tunnels is illegal in NSW. If using a map app, ensure it's set to bicycle mode to avoid motorway tunnels.
Tramways
Tramways are lanes on the road with tram tracks that include start and end signs and are generally marked on the left side by 2 continuous yellow lines running parallel to the tracks. They may also be marked on the left side by structures including bollards, dividing strips and separation kerbs.
Only authorised vehicles are permitted to use tramways - bicycle riders are not permitted to ride along tramways.
Tramway and End Tramway signs
Bicycle riders who travel on a tramway will face a fine of $320.
Bus lanes and bus only lanes
Bicycle riders can use bus lanes. However, you should be cautious of other vehicles using the lane, particularly when approaching intersections, as all vehicles can travel in a bus lane if they intend to turn left.
Bicycle riders are not permitted to use a lane when the words 'Buses Only' appear on a bus lane sign or lane markings.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
A cyclist must not ride a bicycle on any part of the Sydney Harbour Bridge other than the cycleway.