Riding signs and rules
Obeying the following signs and rules will help everyone enjoy their trip out. It also helps to adopt a cautious attitude when on a bike, be aware of what’s around you, and be predictable with your own position on a bikeway or road when riding.
Cycling Brisbane runs on-road and off-road courses which include information on the rules that people riding a bike should observe. You can also attend one of our In Your Neighbourhood events to chat with one of our staff about signs and rules.
Signs
Below is a number of signs you may encounter while riding in Brisbane:
Shared pathway
Bike riders keep left and pedestrians are not to block the path. As an early warning to people walking or running, it is a good idea to sound your bell early, and slow down when overtaking.
Separated pathway
Both bike riders and pedestrians/runners have their own pathway, but all users need to be mindful of each other.
Bicycle only pathway
Only people riding bikes are permitted to use these paths.
Road ahead
The bikeway crosses a road ahead and bike riders need to give way to people who are driving.
Pedestrian crossing ahead
The bikeway crosses a pedestrian crossing ahead and bike riders need to give way if necessary.
Bikeway emergency
These are reference codes for emergency services to locate you if you need assistance.
No bicycles
Riding is not allowed beyond this point – people riding a bike must dismount and walk.
Hook turn storage box
This is an area marked on the road at a multi-lane intersection where a person riding a bike can do a ‘hook turn’.
On-road bike lanes
These lanes are dedicated to bike riders and the green surface improves traction when riding in wet conditions. It is not compulsory to ride in these lanes. People riding a bike can also use bus and transit lanes.
Rules
Bicycle road rules and safety
Queensland Government is responsible for the road rules on Queensland roads. As a bicycle rider, you have rights and responsibilities like all other road users.
In addition to obeying general road rules like all road users, there are specific rules for bicycles.
Visit the Queensland Government website to find out what road rules apply for
- bike riders
- personal mobility devices (e.g. e-bikes and e-scooters)
- skateboards and foot (non-powered) scooters.
One metre matters
The One Metre Matters law requires people driving to stay at least 1 metre away from bike riders while overtaking at speeds of up to 60 km/h, and at least 1.5 metres when overtaking above 60km/h.