It’s dark, suddenly appears a cyclist on without wearing safety vest, you put out an emergency stop. The cyclist continues unchecked, you sitting with a beating heart behind the wheel. To experience something Hamburger motorists often: Because nearly 40 percent of the cyclists in the dark without light are traveling. It is not always made lightly. At the other extreme: bike, the same one driving disco with flash all-round flashing lights in rainbow colors. Here you can read about the rules there are and what is allowed.

What is allowed?

According to Road Traffic Licensing Regulations bicycles must have a white headlight and a red tail light of at least three watts and six volts. The light intensity of the light must be ten lox or more. “The beam must be at least tilted so that its center only half to five meters is as it leaves the spotlight,” said police spokesman Ulf the optimal setting.

The rear light must be at least 25 centimeters above the ground attached. In addition, reflectors (front white, pedals and spokes yellow, red at the rear) required. Admitted are also white reflective strip on the tires. Since 2013 bikes must have no more Dynamos. That is, lights are allowed plug – but only if the said reflectors are mounted. Furthermore: so Dirk Lau ADFC Hamburg “For cyclists the behavior duty also daily operational carry remains”.

Are there exceptions?

On road bikes under eleven kilos reflectors are not required.

Can I install additional lighting?

In principle, only the prescribed lights and reflectors may be attached. Colorful disco light and other effects are prohibited. Given also the popular power belongs saving flashing. “But when the lights in accordance with the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations, each wheel can be individually” says Lau. However, should not be blinded to other road users.

How expensive it is, when I’m driving without lights?

Theoretically, the light must always be switched on. Who plug lights; these must always have and at a control also can turn during the day. If one is without lighting the way, threatens a fine of 20 Euros. If one risks in addition other, there are 25 Euro. And if by an accident occurs with damage to property, even 35 Euros.

What should I look for lighting fixtures?

Racing cyclists need rather far glowing, narrow light cone. Mountain bikers and city cyclists better use a shorter, but wide floodlight. Who has many stops at traffic lights on his way, should install a lighting system that brings from start-maximum brightness. All lights must be approved by the Federal Motor Transport Authority. These lights can be recognized that they have the following characters: a wavy line, behind a “K” and the test number.

Dirk Lau ADFC still has a tip: “When buying LED lights should make sure that you can mount the bracket easily. The lights you take with usually when you park your bike. It is therefore important that the lamps can be easily removed. ”

What can I do to be seen well?

Lau holds a “with the legal regulations appropriate lighting” sufficient. “No cyclist must ride as a flashing Santa Claus in the winter,” he says. “Road safety is increased by adjusting the speed, especially motorists, not by safety vests or flashing bicycle helmets.” Who wants to play it safe, but can wear reflective vests or bicycle helmets.