Road rules and safety for bike tourers

Most of a rail trail tour is spent away from traffic, but almost every bike tour involves some roads: getting to the trailhead, riding into town, crossing highways, or linking trails. Long-distance routes like the Mawson Trail use quiet roads for whole sections. Knowing the road rules, and the practical safety habits that matter in rural Australia, keeps you safe and legal.

This guide covers the key rules for cyclists in Australia and the extra safety considerations on a bike tour: heat, bushfire, wildlife, remote areas and sharing trails. Rules vary between states and change over time, so check the official road rules for the state you're riding in.

The basics

According to Wikipedia, cyclists in every state must follow normal road rules when riding on the road, including using traffic lights correctly and observing give way and stop signs. In all states, cyclists must ride as close as practicable to the left side of the road on a single-lane road, although on multi-lane roads they may use any lane. All states allow only one passenger per bicycle unless the bike is designed for more.

Helmets

Between 1990 and 1992, Australia became the first country to make bicycle helmets compulsory, according to Wikipedia. Today, cyclists in every state must wear a helmet while riding. The Northern Territory has an exception: riders over 17 are not required to wear a helmet on footpaths and public places, but must wear one when riding on the road. Riders 17 and under must wear one everywhere.

Your helmet must meet an approved standard, be properly fitted and be fastened. A loose helmet increases the risk of injury, according to the NT Government.

Passing distances

Minimum passing distance laws protect cyclists. In New South Wales, South Australia and the Northern Territory, among others, drivers must leave at least:

• 1 metre when passing a cyclist where the speed limit is 60 km/h or less
• 1.5 metres where the speed limit is over 60 km/h

To make this possible, drivers are allowed some exemptions, such as crossing centre lines, when it is safe. As a cyclist, ride predictably and hold your line so drivers can pass safely.

Bike equipment and lights

The NT Government lists the minimum equipment you must have on your bike:

• a bell or horn in good working order
• a white reflector at the front
• working brakes
• a red reflector at the rear

If you ride at night, you must have a white front light and a red rear light. Similar rules apply under the road rules in other states. On a tour, carry lights even if you don't plan to ride at night: delays, punctures and tunnels can catch you out.

Riding two abreast and in groups

In the Northern Territory, cyclists can legally ride two abreast, but must not ride more than two abreast on a road. Similar rules apply in other states. On narrow country roads, single file is often safer and more courteous when traffic approaches.

Footpaths and shared paths

Footpath rules vary. In South Australia, cyclists of all ages can ride on footpaths unless a sign prohibits it, and in the Northern Territory riders of all ages may ride on footpaths. Other states have different rules. When riding on a footpath or shared path, keep left, give way to pedestrians and use your bell to warn others.

Hand signals

Rules for hand signals vary by state. According to Wikipedia, riders in Western Australia and Tasmania must use both hand signals, while in Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory cyclists must signal when turning right but it's not compulsory when turning left.

Rail trail etiquette

Rail trails and shared paths have their own etiquette:

• Keep left and pass on the right.
• Ring your bell before passing walkers and other riders.
• Give way to walkers.
• Horses: slow down, speak to the rider and follow their instructions. Horses can be startled by bikes approaching quietly from behind.
• Gates: leave them as you find them.
• Tunnels: dismount where asked, use a light and keep noise down.

Heat

Australian summers can be dangerous for cyclists. Heat illness can develop quickly, especially when riding hard with luggage.

• Ride early in the day and rest during the hottest hours.
• Carry plenty of water and drink regularly.
• Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and light, breathable clothing.
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion: headache, dizziness, nausea, cramps and heavy sweating. Stop, find shade, cool down and drink.

Bushfire

Many trails pass through forests and grasslands that can burn in summer. Before and during your ride:

• Check the fire danger rating and any total fire bans for the area.
• Check trail closures. Some trails close on high fire danger days.
• On extreme or catastrophic days, don't ride in forest or grassland areas.
• Know your exit points, and have a plan to get to a safe place.

Floods and storms

Heavy rain can make trails muddy and close sections, and floods can cut roads and crossings. Never ride through floodwater. Check weather and flood warnings, especially in the tropics and subtropics.

Wildlife and stock

• Kangaroos can bound across trails and roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Snakes are active in warm weather. Give them space and wait for them to move on.
• Magpies can swoop in spring. Many riders use cable ties on helmets or dismount and walk through swooping zones.
• Stock: slow down near cattle and sheep, and cross cattle grids carefully.

Remote areas

On long-distance trails and remote roads:

• Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger.
• Leave a trip plan with someone at home.
• Carry enough water and food for the distance to the next town, with a margin.
• Carry a first aid kit, spares and the skills to fix common problems.

Key points

Cyclists in Australia must follow road rules, wear an approved helmet (with a limited NT exception), and carry lights at night. Drivers in NSW, SA, the NT and other jurisdictions must leave 1 m when passing at or under 60 km/h and 1.5 m above. Footpath and hand signal rules vary by state. On tour, plan for heat, bushfire, floods, wildlife and remoteness, and always check local rules before you ride.

Related guides

Read what to pack for a bike tour and guided or self-guided tours.